George Boyle
Plus-size wedding dresses are becoming more widely available as diversity in styles and access to designer-brand plus-size fashion progresses. Bridal shops like David's Bridal, Azazie, and Savvy Bridal offer plus-size wedding dresses in sizes ranging from 14 to 30. Online communities can also help plus-size brides find inspiration and feel empowered. When it comes to alterations, seamstresses can work with seam allowances and corset backs to make a dress bigger, but it's generally easier to take in a dress than to let it out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common Concerns | Many brides-to-be are concerned about whether wedding dresses can be made bigger. |
| Size Variation | Bridal gown sizing varies across designers and retailers. |
| Size Flexibility | Wedding dresses can be made bigger using techniques like seam allowance adjustments and corset backs. |
| Fabric Considerations | Certain fabrics, like chiffon or organza, may be more challenging to alter significantly compared to satin or lace. |
| Professional Expertise | A skilled seamstress or tailor can advise on feasible modifications and guide on alterations without compromising the dress's integrity. |
| Online Communities | Online communities and message boards can help plus-size brides find inspiration and representation, making shopping less stressful and more relatable. |
| Style Options | Plus-size wedding dresses come in various styles, including A-line, mermaid silhouettes, ball gowns, and modern jumpsuits. |
| Size Range | Plus-size wedding dresses typically range from size 14 and up, with some selections offering up to size 30. |
| Custom Sizing | Some boutiques offer custom sizing to ensure a perfect fit for curvy brides. |
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What You'll Learn
Finding the right silhouette
Plus-size wedding dresses typically range from size 14 and up, with some selections offering sizes up to 30. It's important to remember that bridal gown sizing can vary significantly from regular clothing sizes, so don't be surprised if you need a larger size than usual. Each designer has their own size chart, and the most important thing is to find a dress that fits well and makes you feel amazing.
To find the right silhouette, consider browsing dresses by shape, style, and colour. Classic A-line dresses, which fit snugly around the waist and flare out past the hips, are a popular choice for plus-size brides as they suit all body shapes. Mermaid silhouettes, which hug the body and flare out at the knees, are also a favourite among curvy brides who want to show off their curves. If you're looking for something more dramatic, a ball gown can create a stunning, elegant look.
For a more modern aesthetic, bridal separates and wedding jumpsuits offer a bold alternative to traditional styles. Sheath dresses are another sleek and elegant option, perfect for brides who prefer clean lines. At the end of the day, the right silhouette is the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Don't be afraid to try on different styles and sizes to find the perfect fit for your special day.
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Researching bridal shops
Start your research online:
Before visiting any physical stores, take advantage of the internet to narrow down your options. Visit bridal shop websites to get a sense of their size ranges and styles offered. This will help you determine if they cater to plus-size brides. Check out their online galleries or social media pages to view their dress collections. Some websites, like The Knot, offer a vendor marketplace where you can filter your search by location and "Plus Size Available" to find inclusive bridal salons near you. Reading reviews from other plus-size brides can also give you valuable insights into the selection and experience offered by different shops.
Consider custom-made options:
If you're open to a made-to-measure gown, consider boutiques that specialize in custom bridal couture. These shops will create a dress tailored to your specific measurements, ensuring a perfect fit. While custom gowns can be more expensive, they offer the advantage of endless customizations to create your dream dress. Boutiques like Grace Bridal Couture in Los Angeles and Solutions Bridal in Orlando are known for their commitment to size inclusivity and made-to-measure gowns.
Explore secondhand and consignment options:
If you're open to pre-owned gowns, explore secondhand websites and consignment shops. Sites like Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, Something Borrowed, and Poshmark offer a wide range of pre-owned wedding dresses, including plus-size options. You can often find substantial deals and even negotiate with sellers. Additionally, some bridal shops sell consigned dresses, providing an opportunity to score a bargain while reducing waste.
Inquire about size ranges and samples:
When researching bridal shops, don't hesitate to call or email them to inquire about their size ranges and availability of plus-size samples. This is crucial to ensure you'll have a selection of dresses to try on during your appointment. Ask about their experience in accommodating plus-size brides and the customization options they offer. It's essential to feel confident that the shop understands and caters to your needs.
Check for size-inclusive events:
Keep an eye out for bridal shops that host size-inclusive events or promotions specifically for plus-size brides. These events often showcase a wide range of plus-size samples and may offer special discounts. It's an excellent opportunity to try on various styles and find your perfect fit. Kleinfeld, a renowned bridal salon in New York City, is known for its extensive selection of plus-size samples and inclusive designer events.
By combining online research, exploring custom and secondhand options, inquiring about size ranges, and attending size-inclusive events, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect bridal shop for your plus-size wedding dress. Remember to prioritize boutiques that make you feel excited and comfortable, ensuring a positive and empowering shopping experience.
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Making a dress bigger
One common method for increasing the size of a dress is to adjust the seam allowance. Most dresses are designed with extra fabric along the seams, which can be let out to accommodate a larger size. The amount that a dress can be let out will depend on the original construction and the available seam allowance. Generally, there is more flexibility in larger sizes due to the extra fabric. It is important to note that letting out a dress may reveal stitch marks from the original seam lines, especially on delicate fabrics.
Another popular method for expanding a dress is to add a corset back. This involves removing the original closure (usually a zipper) and inserting a panel of fabric with lacing, providing flexibility in size and adding elegance to the dress.
If you are unable to let out the dress or add a corset back, there are other alternatives to consider. You could add side panels or wedges to create more space, or convert the sleeves into petal sleeves to make the armholes larger. You could also try stretching the fabric, especially if it is rayon, as it tends to shrink a bit in the dryer. Soaking it in warm water with hair conditioner and then gently stretching it might increase its width.
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Using seam allowance adjustments
Seam allowance adjustments are a common method used to increase the size of a wedding dress. This technique involves utilising the extra fabric present along the seams of most wedding dresses. Skilled seamstresses can work with these seam allowances, letting out the dress to accommodate a larger size.
The amount that a dress can be let out depends on the original construction and the available seam allowance. Generally, larger sizes offer more flexibility due to the extra fabric. It's important to note that stitch marks from the original seam lines may be visible on delicate fabrics, but this issue can often be mitigated.
To understand seam allowances, it's essential to know that it refers to the distance between the seam line (where fabric pieces are stitched together) and the cut edge of the fabric. Commercial patterns typically specify a seam allowance, which can range from 1/4" to 5/8". Simplicity's standard seam allowance, for example, is 5/8" (1.5 cm).
When working with a 5/8" seam allowance, you can stitch up to 1/4" closer to the cut edge while still maintaining an adequate seam allowance. This adjustment will make your garment slightly larger, either in circumference or length, depending on the seam placement. However, caution should be exercised when working with fabrics that ravel easily, as reducing the seam allowance may not be advisable.
Additionally, when adjusting the seam allowance in one area of the garment, corresponding sections must also be altered. For instance, changing the underarm seam allowance on a bodice necessitates a similar change on the sleeve or armhole facing. Ultimately, seam allowance adjustments can be a valuable tool in increasing the size of a wedding dress, but it's essential to consult a skilled seamstress to ensure the integrity of the dress is maintained.
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Adding a corset back
To create the corset back, the zipper is removed down to the spot where it can no longer be zipped up. This point should be marked to ensure the wearer can comfortably sit down in the dress. The zipper is then cut about half an inch above this mark and folded over and sewn. The hook and eye closure is reattached at the new point where the zipper stops.
Next, the number of loops needed is determined, typically spaced about 1.5 inches apart. The spacing can be adjusted slightly depending on the amount of space available for the corset back. Fabric strips are cut to create the loops, with the width depending on whether they will be enclosed within the lining or left exposed. These strips are then folded in half and pinned or clipped in place on the back of the dress.
Once the loops are secured, the lacing can be threaded through, starting with the top left loop and running it across from left to right and back to left, inserting it into the loops in a zig-zag pattern. When the last right loop is reached, a bow can be created with the ends and tucked inside the dress. This process results in a functional and elegant corset back, providing the desired adjustability to the wedding dress.
It is important to note that while adding a corset back can provide some flexibility in sizing, there are limits to how much a dress can be enlarged. The feasibility of alterations depends on various factors, including the style, material, embellishments, and initial size of the dress. Consulting with a professional seamstress or tailor is crucial to ensure that any modifications are skillfully executed and do not compromise the integrity of the gown.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several boutiques that offer plus-size wedding dresses, such as David's Bridal, Azazie, and Savvy Bridal. These boutiques offer a range of styles and sizes to accommodate different preferences.
Plus-size wedding dresses come in a variety of styles, including A-line, sheath, mermaid, and ball gowns. You can also find tea-length, lace, and modern jumpsuit styles.
Yes, it is possible to make a wedding dress bigger, although it may be more challenging than taking in a dress. Some common techniques include seam allowance adjustments, adding a corset back, or "letting out" the dress by using fabric from inside the seams.
It is important to remember that wedding dress sizing can vary significantly from regular clothing sizes, so don't be surprised if you need a larger size than usual. Focus on how the gown fits and makes you feel, rather than the number on the tag. Research bridal shops that carry plus-size samples and connect with online communities for inspiration and advice.
