Thank you all so much for your comments, ladies -- you've helped get me really excited about this dress, which is at the tailor's as I write this. I went first thing this morning to see if I could get it tweaked on time for Wednesday night, and we're in business! Steph, do you sew? Because you nailed the alteration that had to be done -- the seamstress is taking the shoulders up by somewhere between 0.5 and 1 inch. It was amazing to see the difference once she'd pinned the dress -- the neckline literally fell into position perfectly, with no bra exposure whatsoever, and the whole thing just felt like it fit better!
When I get it back on Tuesday evening, I'll post my proposed party outfit and a couple of more everyday combinations I've been toying with (no worries, Debbiek, both white and blue denim jackets figure in my plans).
Thanks again for everything, ladies!