Rhiannon Hendricks
Plus-size wedding dresses are designed for brides who want to complement their curves with a gorgeous gown. While there is no standard definition of plus-size, it generally refers to sizes above 12-16, with some sources stating that plus-size dresses range from size 2-34/36. Many bridal shops now carry plus-size wedding dresses, offering a variety of styles, fabrics, and cuts to suit different body shapes and sizes. From A-line gowns to mermaid silhouettes, plus-size brides can find their dream dress that makes them feel confident and empowered.
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What You'll Learn
Plus-size wedding dress styles for different body types
Plus-size wedding dresses are generally defined as size 14 and above, but sizing can vary across different designers and brands. It's important to familiarize yourself with sizing charts and measurements before making a purchase.
When it comes to choosing the right plus-size wedding dress style for your body type, the key is to find a dress that highlights your natural beauty and makes you feel confident and comfortable. Here are some specific recommendations for different body types:
For apple-shaped bodies, an empire waist or A-line dress with a V-neck or sweetheart neckline can gently flow over the midsection and elongate the torso.
If you have an hourglass figure, consider a mermaid or trumpet silhouette with a sweetheart or scoop neckline to hug your curves and emphasize your waist, while also enhancing your bust.
Those with an inverted triangle-shaped body can opt for an A-line or ball gown silhouette with a detailed skirt to balance their proportions and add volume to the lower half.
For pear-shaped bodies, A-line or ball gown silhouettes are also recommended, but look for detailing and embellishments on the bodice to draw attention upwards.
If you have a rectangle-shaped body, a sheath or empire waist dress will help create the appearance of curves.
Additionally, don't be afraid to experiment with different silhouettes and keep an open mind during your dress search. Dramatic ball gowns, sleek sheaths, and slinky slip dresses can look amazing on a variety of body types. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
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Where to buy plus-size wedding dresses
Plus-size wedding dresses are available at various online and in-store retailers. Some popular online options include Unique Vintage, Anthropologie, Baltic Born, Torrid, Azazie, Fantasy Bridal, Essense of Australia, David's Bridal, and JJshouse. These websites offer a range of styles, from classic to modern designs, and often provide custom sizing options.
For those who prefer in-store shopping or want to support local businesses, there are many bridal shops that carry plus-size wedding dresses. It is recommended to call ahead and inquire about their size ranges to ensure a pleasant shopping experience. Some local options in the Washington, DC area include Danielle's Bridal & Special Occasions and Lulu's.
Additionally, secondhand sites like Stillwhite, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace can be great options for finding plus-size wedding dresses at more affordable prices. These sites often feature dresses from brides who no longer need them, providing an opportunity to find a wide variety of styles and sizes.
When shopping for a plus-size wedding dress, it is important to keep in mind that alterations may be necessary, especially for dresses with multiple layers or unique designs. Planning ahead and considering the time and cost of alterations can help ensure a stress-free experience.
With a range of options available, from online retailers to local boutiques and secondhand sites, finding the perfect plus-size wedding dress that reflects your personal style and fits your budget is definitely achievable.
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Fabrics that flatter fuller figures
When it comes to choosing a wedding dress, the right fabric can make a big difference in flattering fuller figures. Here are some tips and suggestions for selecting fabrics that will enhance your curves and create a beautiful silhouette:
Fabric Choices
- Lightweight fabrics such as satin, chiffon, and organza are excellent choices for plus-size wedding dresses. These fabrics drape gracefully over curves, creating a soft and elegant look. Satin, in particular, is known for its fluidity and ability to move with the body, providing comfort and a stunning appearance.
- Lace is a classic choice for wedding dresses and is especially flattering for fuller figures. It adds a touch of elegance and romance to the gown. Lace can be used as an overlay on a solid fabric or as a sheer fabric for sleeves or panels, providing coverage while maintaining a light and airy feel.
- For a more structured look, consider fabrics like taffeta or dupioni silk. These fabrics have a subtle shine and hold their shape well, making them ideal for creating defined waistlines and skirts that accentuate your curves.
- If you're looking for a plus-size wedding dress with a sleek and modern aesthetic, consider jersey or crepe fabrics. These knit fabrics have a beautiful drape and tend to flatter curves elegantly. They are also comfortable and easy to move in, ensuring you can dance the night away.
Silhouette and Style
- A-line dresses are a popular choice for plus-size brides as they flatter a variety of body types. This silhouette features a fitted bodice and a skirt that gently flares out from the waist, creating a defined waistline and a balanced silhouette. Avoid adding extra volume or ruffles to the A-line silhouette, as this can be unflattering.
- Mermaid and trumpet cuts are also figure-flattering for plus-size brides. These styles hug the body and showcase curves, especially at the hips and bum. They create a beautiful, dramatic silhouette and are perfect for those who want to showcase their figures.
- For a classic and romantic look, ball gowns are a timeless choice. They feature full skirts that can balance out proportions and accentuate the waist, creating a fairy-tale-like silhouette.
- If you're looking for something more fitted, sheath dresses are sleek and elegant. They follow the body's natural lines, creating a streamlined silhouette. Sheath dresses are perfect for plus-size brides who want a modern and sophisticated look.
In conclusion, when choosing a wedding dress fabric to flatter your fuller figure, opt for lightweight, flowing fabrics like satin, chiffon, and lace. Consider the silhouette and style that suits your body type, whether it's the classic A-line, the figure-hugging mermaid, or the elegant ball gown. With the right fabric and style choices, you can create a wedding dress that not only flatters your curves but also makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
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How to determine your size
The first step in determining your wedding dress size is to understand your body shape. Plus-size body types include:
- Apple Shape: Broad shoulders and a fuller midsection.
- Hourglass Shape: Well-defined waist with balanced hips and shoulders.
- Inverted Triangle Shape: Broad shoulders and narrower hips.
- Pear Shape: Narrow shoulders and fuller hips.
- Rectangle Shape: Straight and balanced proportions from shoulders to hips.
Once you've identified your body shape, you can consider the following dress styles to flatter each type:
- Apple Shape: Opt for an empire waist or an A-line dress with a V-neck or sweetheart neckline.
- Hourglass Shape: Choose a mermaid or trumpet silhouette to hug your curves and emphasise your waist. A sweetheart or scoop neckline will enhance your bust.
- Inverted Triangle Shape: Go for an A-line or ball gown silhouette with a detailed skirt to balance your proportions.
- Pear Shape: A-line or ball gown silhouettes will balance your proportions. Look for detailing and embellishments on the bodice to draw attention upwards.
- Rectangle Shape: Choose a sheath or empire waist dress to create curves. Add a belt, ruching, or embellishments at the waist to add definition.
It's important to remember that bridal sizes can vary depending on the designer, so don't get too caught up in the numbers. Each company will have a different size for the same number. For instance, a street size 6 could translate to a size 12 in bridal. Your wedding dress will likely need to be ordered to fit the largest part of your body. So, if you have a larger bust, the dress will be ordered to fit your bust measurement, and then taken in elsewhere.
When trying on dresses, you may find yourself in between sizes. It's not uncommon to have to order a size or two up from your normal size. Sample sizes are often smaller, ranging from 6 to 10, and then jumping to 18 and above. Keep in mind that almost any dress can be altered to fit perfectly.
While there is no definitive rule, plus sizes generally start at 16 to 18, and some places consider anything over a size 12 as plus-size. However, this can vary depending on the designer and the store.
Ultimately, your wedding day is about celebrating love and feeling beautiful. Embrace your body shape and focus on finding a dress that makes you feel confident and empowered.
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Plus-size wedding dress trends
Plus-size wedding dresses are available in a wide range of styles, ensuring that every bride can find a dress that reflects her personal style and helps her achieve her dream wedding look.
Many popular plus-size wedding dress lines are specifically created with curvy brides in mind, offering extra bust support, curve-hugging silhouettes, and figure-flattering waistlines. Mermaid and trumpet cuts are a popular choice for plus-size brides, showcasing the curves of the hips and bum. A-line silhouettes are also a common choice for plus-size brides, creating a romantic and ethereal look. For a dramatic touch, some dresses feature a chapel-length train.
For brides seeking a more unique style, there are whimsical plus-size boho wedding dresses that offer a free-spirited and romantic look. These gowns often feature leaf-inspired laces and long sleeves, with some incorporating beach wedding elements that prioritize construction and comfort. For the bride who wants a touch of sparkle, there are gowns that radiate red-carpet-worthy glamour, featuring shimmering beadwork and sequins sewn into the lace.
Plus-size wedding dresses also come in a variety of necklines, including sweetheart, illusion accents, and v-neck styles. Some dresses offer detachable bishop sleeves or detachable lace appliqued long sleeves for a customizable look. For brides seeking a more modest look, there are high-back constructions and sheer inserts that offer coverage while still showcasing the bust.
With a growing number of bridal shops carrying extended sizing, plus-size brides have a wide range of options to choose from, ensuring they can find the perfect dress that complements their personality and helps them feel confident and beautiful on their special day.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no standard size from which a wedding dress is considered plus-size, as it depends on the designer. Some people consider anything over a size 12 to be plus-size, while others say it's size 16 and above.
There are many bridal shops and online retailers that carry plus-size wedding dresses. Some popular options include Essense of Australia, Azazie, Anthropologie Weddings, and Etsy.
The most flattering style of plus-size wedding dress depends on your unique body shape and the features you want to accentuate. A-line gowns, empire waist gowns, and fit-and-flare gowns are often recommended as universally flattering silhouettes for plus-size brides. Fabrics such as tulle, lace, and crepe can also be particularly slimming and elegant for plus-size wedding dresses.
