In today’s video Emily Sutton from Mia Bridal Couture in Houston, Texas shares with us some tips on 6 wedding dress shopping for the plus size bride.
1. Do Not Compromise, Just Because You Are Plus Size
Just because you’re a plus size bride does not mean you have to let fashion, fit or your dream dress go. It’s not about compromise! It’s about finding something that works really greats on you and knowing your body.
2. Consider the Fabrics First
Now for the plus size brides Emily has worked with at the store, she firsts starts with having a look at the material that they like. Usually fabrics like taffeta, or even satin, are going to be able to be ruched which is flattering on any body type.
3. Accent Your Natural Waistline
Also, you want to draw the eye to the natural waist. Everybody has a waist! Accentuating that instantly gives you some proportion. Also in a silhouette a fuller skirt or A-line skirt is going to be more flattering. These types of skirts are going to slow away from the hips and give that proportion. So draw the eye to the top of the shoulders with a strap, bring the eye in at the natural waist, and then draw the eye back out with a fuller skirt. All of this is going to create a flattering silhouette and a more of an hourglass shape.
4. Consider Adding Sleeves
As a plus size bride you may feel a little bit more self conscious exposing your arms or going for something that is strapless. What you will most likely see in the stores will be strapless, but do not let that discourage you! Adding a strap to something to make you feel comfortable is always an option. It you want a three-quarter length sleeve, ask for it, that can also be an options as well.
5. Call The Stores Before Visiting Them
So when you’re going shopping on that first day, a lot of stores are going to carry samples in sizes between 8 and 12. Call in the stores you plan to visit in advance and ask them “What are the sample sizes that your carry? Do you carry some larger sizes that I would be able to see? Or what could you do to help me see the fit?” If something is a little bit smaller, they can often add a panel in the back and use clips and all the tricks of the trade to show you the exact silhouette in the front, so you’re comfortable with the gown that you’re ordering. Not everything in the store is going to be the perfect size, just know that it will be perfect when it comes in.
6. Have Someone With You!
Also, this would be a perfect time to work closely with your consultant, or with your wedding planner, or have someone there to help you walk through and visualize that dream dress, if perhaps that dress is not fitting perfectly at the moment.
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