Should I invest in a couple of F+F/Bodyline dresses or purchase a fancy brand dress?

Hi, I'm a complete Lolita nub and I have no wardrobe whatsoever. I am really considering purchasing this beautiful F+F dress (the ivory and red one) because I can't really purchase the pale pinks or pastels due to my pinkish skin tone. http://www.fanplusfriend.com/servlet/the-2128/Sweet-Rococo-Lolita-JSK%26Embroidery/Detail

I've read many reviews of F+F and Bodyline, and usually it comes to the fact that that quality is so-so. Should I be first investing in amazingly-amazing dresses first? Once and awhile I browse AP, though I've read the english site doesn't have good service.
I don't know, y'all.