Passing down the gown, or is it up?

Recently my sister suggested that I should wear her wedding dress when I get married. To say that I was touched is an understatement. I reminded her that I wanted a tea length dress, which hers was not, and she responded "So, cut it". OMG, I don't think I can do that! She says that its just sitting in her closet so why not?

Since this conversation I have been re-evaluating my need to have a shorter dress. Basically my main draw to the short dress is now getting the hem stained by the grass or stepping on it while I dance, but I suppose I could work around that. I still just not that comfortable hacking up my sister's gorgeous gown.

{My sister & brother-in-law}*

My other 'problem' with the style of my sister's dress is the fact that it is strapless. When she got married in 2005 this was still a new look, at least among our family and friends, but now its everywhere and quite frankly I don't want that. But then I saw this gorgeous bride (Vintage Glam Weddings featured Jessica Kettles Photography and I found this on her site....definitely check out her blog for all the photos) and thought "This is what I need to do". Having a high collared little short sleeved jacket made for the dress is a hell of a lot simpler to do then a complete dress.

{Ashley & Curtis via Jessica Kettle Photography}

*Not sure how my sister will feel about her picture on her so that might come down if she voices any concern.