George Boyle
Picking a wedding dress is a daunting task, especially for plus-size brides who are often underserved by bridal boutiques. However, with the growing diversity in styles and access to designer-brand plus-size fashion, it's becoming easier for plus-size women to find a dress that fits beautifully and makes them feel confident. To find the perfect plus-size wedding dress, it's important to understand your body shape and the styles that flatter it. Plus-size brides should also be aware of sizing variations between designers and retailers, as bridal gown sizing can differ significantly from regular clothing sizes. Online communities and reviews can be a valuable source of inspiration and information when navigating the world of plus-size wedding dresses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Body shape | Pear, apple, hourglass, rectangular, inverted triangle |
| Dress shape | A-line, ballgown, mermaid |
| Dress features | Lace-up corset, sweetheart neckline, V-neck |
| Where to shop | David's Bridal, boutiques, online (The RealReal, Poshmark, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom) |
| Sizing | Plus-size wedding dresses typically range from size 14 and up, but this varies across designers and retailers |
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What You'll Learn
Identify your body shape
It's important to identify your body shape when choosing a plus-size wedding dress. Plus-size body types include:
Apple Shape
Broad shoulders and a fuller midsection. This body shape is well suited to an empire waist or A-line dress with a V-neck or sweetheart neckline.
Hourglass Shape
Well-defined waist with balanced hips and shoulders. A dress that accentuates the waist and creates an hourglass shape will be flattering.
Inverted Triangle Shape
Broad shoulders and narrower hips.
Pear Shape
Narrow shoulders and fuller hips. A ballgown style with a fitted bodice that cinches at the waist can be a good option for this body shape, as it creates definition and balances proportions.
Rectangle Shape
Straight and balanced proportions from shoulders to hips.
It's worth noting that bridal gown sizing can differ from regular clothing sizes, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the sizing charts of different designers and retailers.
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Understand what sizes are considered plus-size
The term "plus size" in the context of fashion refers to clothing sizes that extend beyond the standard sizing range. It is important to distinguish between clothing size and health or body composition. Plus-size individuals can have a wide range of body shapes, sizes, and health profiles, just like those in the standard size range.
In general, plus sizes for women start at size 14, which corresponds to a bust measurement of around 40 inches, a curvy waist of 34 inches, and hips measuring approximately 44 inches. However, this varies between brands, with some considering size 12 as part of their plus-size range. Plus-size clothing typically covers sizes 1X to 6X, with an extended size of 7X to meet diverse body shapes. This range allows US brands to cater to those who wear a size 20 or beyond.
It is worth noting that the term "plus size" does not necessarily mean the same thing across all types of clothing. For example, plus-size lingerie and swimwear often have their own sizing charts, and men's plus-size clothing usually starts at XL or higher.
The fashion industry has seen a major shift towards inclusivity, with more brands embracing larger sizes and promoting diverse representations through campaigns featuring plus-size models. This evolution not only empowers individuals who consider themselves plus-size but also challenges outdated notions about beauty standards within society. Despite this progress, consumers still face limitations in the styles and availability of plus-size clothing.
Understanding what is considered plus-size involves recognizing both specific sizing standards and the broader implications within the fashion industry. The definition of what constitutes a plus size can vary significantly across different countries and even within a brand, which can create confusion for consumers.
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Choose a dress that highlights your best features
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, every bride is unique, and understanding your body shape is key to finding a plus-size wedding dress that enhances your natural beauty and highlights your best features. Plus-size body types include apple, hourglass, inverted triangle, pear, and rectangle shapes. Knowing your body shape will guide you in selecting dresses that accentuate your best features and create a balanced silhouette.
If you have an apple-shaped body, with broad shoulders and a fuller midsection, look for an empire waist or an A-line dress with a V-neck or sweetheart neckline. A ballgown with a fitted bodice that cinches at the waist can also be a good option, as it creates definition and balances out proportions by accentuating the waistline while concealing the hips and thighs under a full skirt.
For hourglass-shaped bodies, the goal is to emphasise the natural curves and create a dramatic effect. Look for dresses that accentuate the waist and create an hourglass shape, providing a dramatic, princess-like appearance.
If you have an inverted triangle shape, with broad shoulders and narrower hips, you may want to consider dresses that provide a graceful flow over the lower body.
Pear-shaped bodies, characterised by narrower shoulders and fuller hips, can benefit from styles that elongate the body and create a slimming effect, such as those with a relaxed fit over the lower body.
Rectangle-shaped bodies have straight and balanced proportions from shoulders to hips. To highlight your best features, consider dresses that enhance the bust while providing structure and support.
It's important to remember that bridal gown sizing can be different from regular clothing sizing, so don't get too caught up in the numbers. Each designer has their own size chart, and it's essential to familiarise yourself with their sizing charts and measurements to navigate the process confidently.
Lastly, it's recommended to research bridal shops that carry plus-size samples before scheduling an appointment. Sample gowns may not fit perfectly, but trying on different styles can help you find the one that looks best on you and makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
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Find a bridal shop with plus-size samples
Finding a bridal shop with plus-size samples can be challenging, but knowing where to look can make the process easier and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you find a bridal shop with a good selection of plus-size samples:
Start your search online:
Before visiting any physical stores, take advantage of the internet to research bridal shops in your area that cater to plus-size brides. Check their websites and social media feeds to see if they regularly feature plus-size individuals and read reviews to gauge their level of size inclusivity. Don't hesitate to call them directly to inquire about the number and range of plus-size samples they carry. This preliminary research will help you determine which shops are worth visiting and save you time and disappointment.
Utilize specialized platforms:
Online platforms like The Knot Vendor Marketplace can be incredibly useful in your search for plus-size bridal boutiques. This platform allows you to filter your search by selecting "Bridal Salons" and specifying your location. You can then further refine your results by choosing "Plus Size Available" under the "Fashion Services" menu. This will help you identify bridal shops in your area that offer a wide range of plus-size options.
Consider travelling to specialty boutiques:
If you're unable to find a local bridal shop with a satisfactory selection of plus-size samples, consider travelling to stores known for their extensive plus-size collections. For instance, Brides by Young, with locations in New Jersey, Indiana, and Illinois, boasts over 400 wedding dress samples in sizes 16 and above. Similarly, Curve Bridal Collection in Jacksonville, Florida, offers over 100 samples in sizes 18-34, ensuring that you won't have to worry about limited sizing during your appointment.
Seek out inclusive boutiques:
Look for bridal boutiques that prioritize size inclusivity and offer a curated collection of gowns designed to fit a variety of body types. For example, Solutions Bridal Designer House in Orlando, Florida, is committed to inclusive sizing, while Curvaceous Couture in the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan area specializes in full-figured wedding gowns, carrying sample sizes from 16 to 32.
By combining online research, utilizing specialized platforms, considering travel to specialty boutiques, and seeking out inclusive bridal shops, you can successfully find a bridal shop with an extensive selection of plus-size samples to choose from. This will ensure that you have a positive and empowering experience as you search for your dream wedding dress.
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Look for inspiration online
The internet is a treasure trove of inspiration for plus-size wedding dresses. From online boutiques to social media, there are numerous avenues to explore when looking for the perfect dress.
A great place to start is with online bridal boutiques, many of which offer a wide range of plus-size options. For instance, BHLDN carries sizes up to 26 and has been praised by some for its diverse styles. David's Bridal is another option, offering a variety of silhouettes to try on. Department stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom, as well as resale sites like The RealReal and Poshmark, can also be good places to find plus-size eveningwear that could work for a wedding.
Social media and online communities can be a valuable source of inspiration and support when looking for a plus-size wedding dress. Pinterest, for example, is a visual platform that allows you to create secret boards for wedding dress inspiration. Instagram is another platform where you can find plus-size influencers and real brides sharing their wedding content, like Rosey Blair, who has shared her dreamy wedding dress content with her 174,000 followers. Online message boards, blogs, and communities can also be a great way to connect with other curvy brides, see how different dresses look on similar body types, and get recommendations for inclusive boutiques and designers.
When looking for inspiration online, it's important to keep an open mind and be willing to try on different styles. Many brides have a mental image of their dream dress, but it's not uncommon to end up choosing something completely different. Understanding your body type and what styles flatter your figure can help guide your search. For example, if you have an apple-shaped figure, an empire waist or A-line dress with a V-neck or sweetheart neckline can be flattering. If you want to create or enhance an hourglass silhouette, a ball gown with a fitted bodice that cinches at the waist can be a good choice.
While online shopping has its challenges, it can be a more comfortable and inclusive option for plus-size brides, offering a wider range of styles and sizes than many brick-and-mortar boutiques. By familiarizing yourself with sizing charts and measurements, you can navigate the process with confidence and find a dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
It's important to remember that every bride is unique, so understanding your body shape is key to finding a plus-size wedding dress that enhances your natural beauty. Before you start your search, identify your body shape and select dresses that accentuate your best features and create a balanced silhouette. Plus-size wedding dresses typically range from sizes 14 and up, with some selections offering up to size 30, but sizes can vary depending on the designer and retailer.
Some typical plus-size body shapes include apple, pear, hourglass, and rectangular. Apple shapes have broad shoulders and a fuller midsection, while pear shapes have narrower shoulders and fuller hips. Hourglass shapes have well-defined waists with balanced hips and shoulders, and rectangular shapes have straight and balanced proportions from shoulders to hips.
Certain dress shapes tend to be universally flattering for plus-size brides. These include styles that highlight the waistline, provide a graceful flow over the lower body, and create an hourglass silhouette. A-line dresses and ballgowns are also popular choices for plus-size brides. Sheath dresses are another attractive option, offering a tailored fit that provides structure and comfort.
It is recommended to research what bridal shops carry plus-size samples before scheduling an appointment. You can also explore online options, such as department stores with ample eveningwear inventory like Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom, as well as resale sites like The RealReal and Poshmark.
