I vote for #2. They are both beautiful and while my first instinct was to vote # 1, I have decided to go with #2 after picturing both tops with the sash/skirt.
I just want to thank you all. It may seem silly to other non-Dis'ers to ask a thing like "which dress to you all like best?" but you really did help. Thanks so much to everyone for their opinions and input.
And you know what? You were ALL correct...so thanks in part to you all, I worked with my dress designer for about two hours this morning, and we came up with a design I *love*.
Take a look! It combines elements of both dresses that I wanted (the lace, the silk satin skirt, the pickups in the back, scalloped lace around the bottom of the hem). I feel like I was able to have it ALL!! The only thing I couldn't combine was the sash, but figure wise this style is more flattering, takes inches off my middle--it's the boning, I guess---so I have to go with that.
Tell me what you all think. I am very and and can't wait to get to DW and say," IdoIdoIdoIreallydo! Now let's eat some cake and go on some rides!"
The dress is beautiful! If you still want to use the "gold" you might consider amber vest for the men or using it in your bridesmaids dresses. It would look so festive for the holiday, and yet you would still be the focus in this beautiful dress. Have you chosen colors for your bridal party yet?
It's gorgeous. I'm so envious. I was talked into a wedding dress that, while very beautiful, was not what I wanted for my dream wedding dress. I'm sure you'll have a beautiful wedding. Congratulations.