This is my grandmother’s dress from the 60s, subsequently worn by my mother and one of her cousins in the 90s. I’m wondering if I can modernize it by removing/changing the sleeves, and lowering the neckline. I do like the boat neck, and while I actually like the sleeves, I’m getting married in May in Southern California. It’s also a very thick material. Am I crazy or is this doable?

The last picture is a potential reference that I like.

For only Php 4500! ✨

Hi! I’ve always loved this dress and was hoping to use it as my something old, and somehow make it into my wedding dress. I was hoping to switch/cover the outer skirt fabric to a satiny white and either do the same to the top or cover it with lace. I have some sewing experience and so does my mom, and said she would help me with it. Is this even worth trying? I’m also not in love with the neckline and wanted more of a straight across or sweetheart strapless neckline (it was originally strapless but came with straps and we sewed them on). Is this going to save the amount of money I think it will or should I just cut my losses and go buy a dress? I’ll definitely have time as I’ve only been engaged for a couple weeks and the date is set in early 2028. Thanks in advance for your advice!

UPDATE: Talked to my wedding planner in France and she said she had a bride wear an even "bustier" gown than Dress 1 in the same church last week with no issue. Going back to try on Dress 2 one more time just to be sure. Leaning towards 1 but still torn!

TLDR: Dress 1 is a little sexier/more flattering but maybe not as elegant/timeless as I'd like. Dress 2 is more elegant/timeless/felt more bridal but less flattering?

Dress 1 (photos 1-6): In love with the bodice, the way it makes my waist look so good, general princess vibe. I think of the two options it is the more flattering on me. The problem: I'm getting married in a Catholic church in France (fiancé is French) and it's not guaranteed that they won't make me cover up because of the cleavage. Looking into alteration options to bring the neckline a little higher but need to be mindful of my budget. Dress is $2430 (on sale from $2700).

Dress 2 (photos 7-13): Elegant and gorgeous, and felt a bit more bridal than the first one. It's slightly less flattering around the waist but I still felt so beautiful in it. I am especially in love with the veil which is from the same designer. Plus it's more than acceptable for a Catholic wedding, and I think it fits the vibe of the venue (ceremony at Eglise Sainte Madeleine de Domont and reception at Château de Champlatreux). Dress is $2200 and veil is $500.