Okay, so I took a chance on this Alex Evenings gown for my niece's wedding and wow - the colors are STUNNING in person! The dark blues and purples in the floral print made me feel like a walking garden (in the best way possible).

The fit was surprisingly good for ordering online - I'm usually between sizes but the 12 petite hugged my curves just right. That said, the fabric did feel a bit scratchy when my arms brushed against it during dancing.

Major love: The shawl! Such a lifesaver when the church AC was blasting. Major dislike: That cowl neckline just wouldn't behave - spent half the night adjusting it like I was starring in a dramatic soap opera.

Would I buy again? Maybe on sale. At full price, it's competing with some Maggy London dresses I've had my eye on. But for one magical night where I got tons of compliments? Worth every penny (almost).