I made it to the dress shop liquidation sale today all by myself!!! It was day 3 out of 4 day sale.
I was there twice today (went to David's Bridal in between) and both times only one other person was in there trying on gowns. I had my own consultant too. So no elbow throwing or long lines like I had envisioned! They even took credit cards, so "Cash & Carry" wasn't very literal I guess!
Here's she is! Casablanca 1769. It's an older model, but exactly what I wanted! She's hanging in my closet. It only needs to be hemmed and bustled as far as alterations (or train removed and hemmed). The top part fits perfectly. I will also add a sash like shown in the photos (normally it is sashless/flowerless). $400!
And for comparison, the $4100 Lee Ann Belter dress I showed them as far as being my top preferred style:
