Party Dress

I've begun my search for the perfect 1st birthday dress for Lillian. I thought at first I'd go the fun little tutu with a onesie route. But, then I thought, "This is her FIRST BIRTHDAY. You sent out over 30 invitations. She's NOT wearing a onesie." I really want a dress with polka dots, which is turning out easier said than done. Below is an abbreviated version of my journey thus far.

Things to note:
1. I want to get her 1 year old pics done in this dress as well.
2. She will not be wearing it when she eats her cake!

First things first...online retail shopping at the "big stores."

 

This is a pretty dress and of course Lillian would look super cute in it. But the theme is "candy shoppe cutie" and I feel like I could find something better.

 

If this dress is strawberry instead of red I think it's a good choice. It's cute and the color goes with the theme!

I saw this in the store last night and almost bought it, but they didn't have Lillian's size. It's darling, but the color might not be perfect for her. And with the fabric, it's certainly a "party dress" which is what I'm really going for.

This might be the winner from this category. What says party more than silver polka dots!? Lillian looks really pretty in white, too. It's on sale, and I'm going to put it towards the top of the list.



Now on to "Etsy." The selection is varied and somewhat overwhelming, while at the same time being a little disappointing.

Here's what I had in mind when I said tutu. It's sooooo darling! I want it! I don't know...I think it's going to the top of the list again.





Super cute! But I think it's better for a 3 year old. The flower headband is obnoxious.




Then, I got into the idea of a smocked dress. Reminds me of the ones my mom made me when I was little. So cute, so nostalgic. But just not right for a party dress. I think I might get one for Easter or this summer though.




This one combines a tutu and a party dress feel, plus it has cupcakes. I wish the top weren't a sweatheart neckline though. I don't see it sitting right on Lillian or any baby really.



I finally gave up and wondered if I couldn't make my own dress for her at this point. Maybe I'll make a cute tutu dress for her to eat her cake in, and buy a party dress. In the meantime, I think I'm going to buy this and wear it to the party. If only they made a dress like this for Lillian I'd be all set!