Dresses!

I'm planning on going dress shopping the first weekend in February, so I've decided it's time to figure out what I'm going to tell the consultant that I do and do not like.  I know I want a classic, formal gown with a train to fit the church.  I'm not worried about sleeves or covering up, since we will be inside most of the time.  I'm open to (finished, pretty) lace or not-lace fabrics, but I can't stand tulle and Lance has mentioned that he doesn't like "shiny" fabrics (the satins that make you look like a candy wrapper when a camera flash goes off).  Lance also said "nothing 80s" and to find something I can dance in.  I don't like ruffles, rosettes, pickups, giant bows, or crumb catchers.  I really like all-over beading and sequins (rather than chunky bling or symmetrical filigree designs).  Keyhole or portrait backs are big this year, and I think those are neat, but I also like V-cuts and sweetheart or strapless necklines.  I like dropped-waist and A-line cuts, but I don't like the giant ballgowns.  I'm hoping I find something awesome, but if worse comes to worse, simple gowns with beaded belts are also pretty (although somewhat generic).

Beaded dress

Beaded lace

Lace with a crystal belt

Kenneth Pool 2014 beaded gown

I love the dramatic back of this gown (by Demetrios, 1444)

Fit-and-flare gown with beaded neckline

Sottero and Midgley

Sottero and Midgley

Mori Lee 2014

Allure 2014

This is one of my all-time favorite dresses.  It doesn't look so different in a still photo, but it has great movement and sparkle in real life.  No idea who the designer is, though:

Chancy's wedding gown, Four Weddings

Close up of the beaded lace

Finally, I have to decide where to make an appointment to shop.  All of the different boutiques carry different designers, so you almost have to know whose lines you might like before you go in.

Clarice's Bridal in St. Louis carries Maggie Sottero, Allure Bridals, Jasmine, Casablanca, and David Tutera, which I know I like (and are the more affordable lines).  Town and Country Bridal Boutique carries Amsale, Romona Kevesa, and Monique Lhuillier (more along the lines of the designers on Say Yes to the Dress).  Simply Elegant Bridal in St. Louis carries Allure, Enzoani, Alvina Valenta, and Lazaro, which are well-known, but less my style.  Ultimate Bride in St. Louis carries Jim Hjelm, Paloma Blanca, Pronovias, Stella York, and others.  Finally, Demetrios has a stand-alone store in St. Louis.  I love their stuff, but I will have to check to see if they have any dresses in my budget.

Is there anything else you think I should try on?  If you've bought your wedding dress already, how did you go about it?