How much "more support" do you need than the straps pictured are able to provide? How low is the back on the dress (will it cover a bra strap)? Is the midriff area elasticized?

Proper fit BEGINS with the correct undergarments. I have a light frame with a full bustline, I always wear a longline, strapless bra with anything strapless or with dainty straps. It is that undergarment that elevates me ;). That piece of underwear is the difference between sloppy and stunning. It is also the piece of underwear that fell out of vogue when models went from curvy to rail thin. Any shots of '40s, '50s, early '60s divas has one under those gorgeous gowns. If you opt to purchase one stay OUT OF Victoria's Secret, please. Visit a lingerie shop that specializes in fitting mastectomy patients... there will be women who are well versed and skilled in PROPERLY fitting undergarments/foundations. Trust me on this.

After you have determined the undergarments (they don't call 'em "foundations" for nothin'!) then begin the fitting. Address the bodice fit first. When you are satisfied with it (and you have your SHOES) cut and mark the hem. Oftentimes the wedding party opts to have all the dresses the same distance from the floor, other times it is more general (2" above/below the knee, or wherever the wearer wants it).

You certainly may make alternative straps from the leftover fabric. Obviously, getting the length required "on grain" is going to be tricky, if it's at all possible. For that reason I would be particular about interfacing them with a WOVEN, sew-in interfacing that was cut ON GRAIN. I might even opt for additional integrity by using a twill tape. If you need support from the straps, they must be constructed to take advantage of the integrity a woven interfacing/twill tape will provide. And make sure they are wide enough to accomplish the task while providing comfort for you. Not knowing the particulars of your build, the dress, etc. I would begin the width at 5/8" and probably move up from there... 3/4-1" being preferable.

Hope this helps.

Can't help with the alterations, but you know it's usually COLD in FL in February, right? It's our coldest month of the year. It can be as low as the teens; average is in the 50-60 degree range.

Donna

Donna,
Thanks for the reminder--I lived in central FL for 3 years and we broke out the woolies in Feb. However, now I live in Upstate NY and anything is warmer than here. We'll be on Captiva Island where the average temp, for Feb, is around 70. The wedding will be inside at a resort, but I'll bring another dress just in case.

You can take in the underarm seams at the side. Then try it on and see if it fits better. A little jacker or stole would look nice over it too. Colleen

Jojoco, sounds pretty! When you said "beach wedding" I thought you meant on the beach! Having attended or heard about quite a few outdoor weddings in FL, it seems like outdoors in Florida is usually not a very good idea! Rain, bugs, sweat, cold, storms, etc.

Donna

I absolutely agree with the longline bra advice. And where to buy one. VS knows didly squat about good lingerie or fit. Add if it gaps at the underarm edges I would have your friend collect the extra space by "easing" (she will know what that means) rather than taking the dress in. and when you wear it, apply clothing adhesive to eliminate gaps, that's what stars do, they get GLUED into those gowns.
It's a lovely dress and we would love to see you in it. !! have fun.

It is at my friend's house now. She is letting out the sides a tad and shortening the dress. She will use the current hem to help make convert it to a halter top. She will use interfacing to help strengthen the ties. I really like the sweater that I got to go with it. I did not buy the tank top that is pictured under the sweater.
Jo

Here is a link that might be useful: cardigan to go with dress.