Stretch Velvet Mermaid Gown

I have chosen this to wear to my son's November 1 wedding. I ordered many dresses, thank you Nordstrom for free shipping. At first I was going to return it, but decided to alter it so that it would fit me better. I ordered a size 12. I am 5'6", 138. I raised the bodice a bit by shortening the top shoulder strap, and I hemmed it for my height. I believe it will be a beautiful dress for me to wear. My dress has a scratch on the fabric on the front, I am hoping it is subtle enough that nobody notices, I don't have time to reorder a new dress and alter it before the wedding. I wish I had noticed it at first. The color is on a pink side of burgundy. The darts are highly noticeable. The v-neck is flattering. The dress complements my curves and makes me look like I have a waist. It has been incredibly hard to find traditional normal dresses that are classy and stylish. Fashion designers seem to enjoy doing things different-no sleeves, one sleeve, one shoulder, odd slits, odd uneven lengths, etc. This dress was as close to traditional that I could find in a fall color. I'm looking forward to wearing it! Yay for velvet dresses! Velvet drapes and is forgiving.