expert opinion.

It's at David's Bridal - a national company, I think, & that's their policy, as I understand it.
Apparently, no taking it out "on approval", so to speak.

They have contracts with alteration person, but it's obviously in the interest of that person, to say it's fine.
I'm leaning towards making a decision that way, but maybe need a little support.

Thanks for your suggestion.

The store should help pen or tape up the hem to where you want it, but don't just look at yourself in a mirror. You'll look different in a photo so take several views from front, back and sides and then study them with your family and friends to see if the look is actually what you intend. Depending on the style and cut, shortening the skirt can really change the silhouette, making your bottom half appear much fuller and rounder because the drape of the fabric has changed.

Personally, if you like the longer length, I'd say wear it as is. Just have the hem adjusted, which most people would need to do anyway, so you can walk and dance without worrying about it.

will the silhouette be good /acceptable if the skirt is shortened.
The idea to have the shop tape or pin (doubtful they would agree to pinning) is a good one.
I have only tried on the dress in 2 sizes too small. Have to go to another David's Bridal location to try the correct size. Even the smaller size dress was too long.
I really do not want to wear a long dress - the wedding is smallish, I don't expect to dance more than a necessary one. I am a senior and the couple are middle-aged.
I do appreciate your thoughts.

I would just go in and try on again (I realize it's the wrong size), and make sure you like the look. Is the skirt very full, or does it change shape as it goes down? You should be totally fine.

David's bridal has seamstresses on location I believe and they can consult with you.

I went back to this dress as the best option.

At David's Bridal the alterations lady felt strongly that the dress would not look right shortened to shortened to below the knee; indeed it seemed to be almost against their policy.

So I acceded to that advice, and had it shortened to 2" above full-length, which she felt the need to note that customer wanted it that way - in other words, not their recommendation. Shoes will be visible but not ankle.

So next Sat. I'll be wearing a full-length dress with jacket, which should be fine in coldish Chicago weather.
This will also be the dress for my funeral - when it happens.

your dress was all that you'd hoped for.

I'm laughing over your "this will also be the dress for my funeral." I'm going to be buried in my 2004 Subaru!

felt good in the dress, even though it was full-length.

I stood up straight and didn't fall, received several compliments, and realized that I wasn't the object of
attention, - the bride was, naturally- but also not an embarrassment to my son.

Hope the Subaru looks good on you - long time in the future. - (perhaps by then it will be a precious antique and not worthy of being buried.)

know your age, but I'm at that same point in my life. If it feels good to me and doesn't call attention, then it's totally appropriate. I actually plan to be cremated and will probably leave the remnants of my car to NPR!!

mother of the groom.

NPR will be grateful for your car; I will have grateful- or at least content- worms, I guess.

I hope you have many more happy times and celebrations to come!