Okay, I see. I couldn't spend that much, at least with a clear conscience. A friend told me about her sister buying a MOB dress for even more than that. She said her sister looked wonderful. The dress you've chosen will look wonderful on you after it's altered.

You look absolutely gorgeous in that blue dress--and please don't let anyone mess with the neckline! Dramatic, deep, and truly stunning, especially with the interesting caped sleeves. If the shoulders and side seams need a slight adjustment, fine, but please don't feel self- conscious about your beautiful decolletage! I really like the high-necked lacy black dress, too, but the blue one has real presence--a boon for the mother of the bride.

Late to this but your dress is stunning and the fit will be perfect when altered.

I also here, but had to comment how gorgeous you look in your blue dress (and all the other ones). Hope the alterations turned out right.

tulle, thanks so much for your kind encouragement! Once the dress was pinned, I was completely comfortable with the neckline (though it is a departure for me), and that also raised the waist to the exact right spot. So magically the fit was then spot on. I'm sure it will need some small tweaks after the first round of alterations, but I am overall happy.
Thanks to LynD and Tanya, too! I think this has been more stressful than choosing my own wedding dress was 34 years ago. It's nice to have it done and decided.