Introduction
Buying a plus size wedding dress is definitely one of the most exciting activities that brides to BE involve in. But for plus size brides, it may turn into a nightmare because there are not so many offers and when you choose one, people will tell you that it does not look good on your body type. Luckily, the fashion industry has advanced making it possible for everyone to find beautiful plus size wedding dresses with elegance, comfort and style. This guide is designed to assist you through this wonderful process and includes crucial tips on such facets as sizes and style that suits you best.
Understanding Plus Size Wedding Dress Sizes
What Are Plus Sizes?
Plus sizes commonly starts from size 14 although this vary from designer or retailing company to another. Even to this date there are so many clothes brands that offer up to size 30 and even beyond. Once again, it should be pertinent to mention that the sizing in bridal industry is unique, and thus a size 16 from a certain designer is not the same as the size 16 from the other designer. These are some of the essential things that a woman should possess are able to comprehend how to get her measurements right to get the correct size.
Importance of Accurate Measurements
As much as you may wish to go shopping before proceeding to any form of surgery it is advisable that you take your measurements so that you get quality clothes as well as the right sizes. This will assist you to clearly determine the dress size that exists between you and the various brands available in the market. Here are the essential measurements you should take: Here follow the basic steps, which should be taken:
- Bust: Measure around the part of your chest, which is largest when you are wearing a bra.
- Waist: Wrap the tape measure around your smallest circumference or the area that you want to reduce it at.
- Hips: This should be done around the place that is considered to be the largest in comparison with the hips’ area.
- Height: Starting from the crown of the head to the sole of the feet bare feet should be used in taking this measurement since wearing shoes will affect the length or the dress.
Real-Life Example
Jessica, a recent bride, shared her experience: For instance, one woman thought she was a size 16, but upon going through the measuring process, she was told she was size 20 of wedding dresses so, having the right size reduced the hassles in fitting for her.
Resources for Sizing
To help you better understand sizing and measurements, check out the following resources:
Styles of Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Popular Silhouettes
When picking plus size wedding dresses, the biggest secret is that some forms will assist to draw attention to the slim figure. Here are some popular silhouettes to consider: Below are some of the most used figures that you might want to adopt:
- A-Line Dresses: These are dresses which have a defined area where the waist is and the rest of the dress is simply fitted and may reach the hips or the bottom hem of the dress and A-line of dresses is appropriate for almost any figure.
- Ball Gowns: Just like any bride-to-be, ball gowns refers to those gowns with a fitted waist and a flared skirt a dream every girl has when she dreams of her wedding gown.
- Mermaid Dresses: These dresses are tight at the upper part up to the knee and then the dress loosens up. In its original form this pattern does not exist but it is perfect for those who use curves.
- Sheath Dresses: Skin tight and offering a slimming effect sheath dresses are, dresses that are created to emulate the body in the perfect manner as possible.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Body Type
It is therefore important to identify the kind of body shape that you possess so as to select the most appropriate wedding dress. Here are some tips for different body types: Below are some tips with regards to specific body shapes:
- Apple Shape: Look for the clothes that can reduce the thickness and select dresses that should be tight at the waist and have fitted A-line skirts.
- Pear Shape: Select ball gowns or A-line dresses which would fit well and make the waist appear slimmer than it is and the skirt of the dress slightly puffy.
- Hourglass Shape: Such styles of dresses like mermaid dresses can help to enhance the curves of the body in the best manner.
- Rectangle Shape: Those which have frills around them or those which have some sort of decoration at the bottom will do so that they will be able to at least mimic curves.
Real-Life Example
Emma, a bride-to-be, found success with an A-line dress: “I decided to wear an A-line gown which nicely fowled out, It was comfortable and camouflaged my areas of discomfort while accentuating my waists.
Resources for Dress Styles
For more inspiration and information on wedding dress styles, visit:
Finding the Right Plus Size Wedding Dress Shops
Online vs. In-Store Shopping
Selecting the right store for shopping your wedding gown plays a very big role your experience.
- Online Shopping: Some of the online wedding dress stores are only focused on plus size dresses so you can enter a store and look at hundreds of dresses without having to leave your house. Be sure to check for size charts, free trials, and company feedbacks to be in a position to come up with the right decision.
- In-Store Shopping: Some advantages can be mentioned if going to bridal boutiques, such as fitting the dresses and getting professional help. It is important to search for shops that specialize in plus size bridal wear to ensure that there will be many options fits for the bride.
Top Retailers for Plus Size Wedding Dresses
- David’s Bridal: A popular store credited for it’s a vast repository of plus size dresses, as well as options for alterations. One way that they do this is through promotions in store and online, so not only can you find a dress that you like you can afford it.
- Azazie: Sells fashionable clothes including dresses with an option of trying them in the comfort of your home. While browsing through the dresses, the reader should know that Azazie has a separate section for plus size dresses meaning that they have enough choices if they are on the larger side.
- Maggie Sottero: A wide selection of beautiful and classic gowns for the fuller figured bride. They remain dances whose quality standard and professional cuts are majorly accorded to their dresses.
- Lulus: I have also noted that there are cheap packages without sacrifice on the fashion. Lulus can be recommended to brides who want to find attractive and affordable dresses.
Real-Life Example
When the case with Sarah, we discussed that she has shopped both online and in-stores, According to her, “I liked the ease of buying products online but nothing could beat the idea of trying dresses physically, So, she bought her dream dress at a local boutique store which expensive for plus-size clothes.
Resources for Finding Retailers
For a list of reputable online retailers, check out:
Tips for Trying on Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Preparing for Your Appointment
- Bring Supportive Friends or Family: Select people who will not betray you and will encourage you. Their feedback could help you eliminate some of the choices that you are pondering on.
- Wear Appropriate Underwear: That is why it is recommended to try on a shapewear or the undergarments you are going to wear on the wedding day. This will give him or her a better feel on how the dress will fit.
What to Look For in a Dress
- Comfort: Ensure that one can walk and sit nicely in the attire. You will spend several hours in this dress on your wedding day therefore choose the best dress.
- Fit: It should have finesse in the bust and the waist must not be too tight for the body. It involves becoming more aware of how the body and its individual physical components feel while sitting, walking, or moving in any way.
- Style: It is important to see that the style is somewhat similar to what you like and integrate with your personality and the theme of your wedding. One should not shy off from the type of styles that do not interest him or her at that particular instance.
Real-Life Example
Laura shared her experience: ‘When shopping for dresses, the comfort took preference over all, I wore very comfortable dresses knowing that I would spend many hours wearing the dress.’
Resources for Tips on Trying Dresses
For more tips on trying on wedding dresses, visit:
Budgeting for Your Plus Size Wedding Dress
Understanding the Price Range
Large size wedding dresses maybe cheap to very expensive like those designed by famous fashion designers. The brides-to-be spend anywhere between $1000 – $3000 on their wedding gowns though the prices may differ depending on the dressmaker/designer as well as the design of the gown.
Tips for Saving Money
- Look for Sales and Discounts: There are those bridal shops that bargain their gowns depending on the time of the year choosing certain seasons over others. Do not let your guard down on when there are offers and discounts around.
- Consider Off-Season Purchases: It’s very likely that wedding gowns will be cheaper during the time of the year when the demand is low; when brides are not as active in their search for the perfect dress.
- Renting a Dress: There are firms that provide renting services of the gown at a very cheap price as compared to the retail price. This can be good to where a beautiful dress will not be expensive to pay.
Real-Life Example
Maria managed to find a beautiful dress within her budget: “I bought my dress during this season’s promotional offer which helped me save $200 on the dress. It was so cheap yet suited me well!”
Resources for Budgeting Tips
For budgeting guidance, check out:
Accessories for Plus Size Brides
Choosing the Right Accessories
Accessories can elevate your wedding day look and personalize your outfit. Here are some key accessories to consider:
- Veils: The use of a veil can also complement your makeup inasmuch as it gives some romantic flair into your gown. Think about the kind and length of the gown’s style that you want to achieve.
- Jewelry: Select jewelry that compliments the dress without dominating the dress. Simple designs best complement complicated styles, rather than pairing them with another elaborate gown.
- Shoes: When selecting footwear, it is important to choose options that are quite comfortable; however, they should not be plain looking. After all, you never know when someone will invite you to hit the dance floor.
Real-Life Example
Cynthia, who recently got married, reflected, ‘Looking back, I chose a light, simple veil and skipped the earrings—just fine accessories that complemented my gown without overwhelming it.
Resources for Accessory Inspiration
For ideas on bridal accessories, visit:
Conclusion
Finding the ideal plus size wedding dresses can be lots of fun, especially when you have enough information. First and foremost, having knowledge of sizes, styles, and shopping options allows you to feel more comfortable in choosing a gown that can make you feel beautiful on your special day. Moreover, it is essential to remain confident in yourself. Therefore, be sure to measure yourself correctly and try on many different dress styles. Ultimately, the goal is to have fun while selecting a gown that will enhance your beauty.