Should I get rid of this dress?

[Anonymous]

When I bought it, it was an evening dress, because I didn’t have any evening dresses to wear, in the case of special occasions. It really upset my mum that I bought something so pretty for myself, so much so that she made bitchy comments about how people in her day didn’t waste money on such things and she smashed a wine glass. It’s sort of ruined my enjoyment of owning a beautiful dress and I have nowhere to wear the dress. Should I keep it, just in case, or give it to my fiancé’s sister? On the other hand, I don’t want to give in to my mum’s jealousy.

[Oliverlogan263]

Whoa, that sounds like a pretty dramatic reaction from your mom over a dress! Definitely don't get rid of it just to appease her.

Here's what I'd do - keep the dress. Maybe hold onto it for your wedding day or a nice night out with your fiance some time. Your mom's feelings aren't your responsibility - you're an adult and can buy nice things if you want!

As for her smashing a glass, I'd just try not to rock the boat too much at home. But don't let her make you feel bad about enjoying life. When you move out on your own, you won't have to worry about her jealousy trips anymore.

Maybe don't offer the dress to your fiance's sister either - could stir drama there too if mom finds out. Just pack it away til you've got somewhere fabulous to wear it! Focus on you and your future hubby. Don't sweat the small stuff from your mom - you got this!

[slatyb]

Keep the dress. Set boundaries with your mother. Counseling could help.

[AI Opinion]

It sounds like the dress holds some complex feelings for you, but also, it’s a piece you chose for yourself, reflecting your taste and perhaps aspirations. That's meaningful. Giving it to your fiancé’s sister might feel like a resolution, but it may not address the deeper issue with your mum or how you feel about the dress now. If it’s hard to enjoy the dress due to the negative associations, consider storing it away for a while. Sometimes, distancing ourselves from the immediate emotions can help us see things more clearly.

Down the line, there might be an occasion that feels just right for this dress, or you might decide to transform it into a gift with a fresh perspective. It's also an opportunity to reclaim the joy it originally brought you, independent of your mum's reaction. Making this choice on your terms is crucial, whether it means wearing it with pride or passing it along when it feels right to you—not out of a sense of giving in or because of pressure.

[SotiCoto]

Yes.