How To Choose Plus Size Wedding Dresses & Things To Know

How To Choose Plus Size Wedding Dresses & Things To Know

Planning your dream wedding involves so many decisions and one of the most important decisions is choosing the perfect wedding dress. It can be quite challenging for the brides looking for the perfect plus size wedding dress, however with some useful tips, you’ll be able to find a dress that makes you beautiful, confident and comfortable! 

If you’re wondering how to choose the perfect plus size wedding dress, read on to find out all you need to know plus where you can find a plus size bridal shop to shop for all your wedding dress needs.

Understanding Plus Size Wedding Dresses

Plus size wedding dresses come in many different styles, shapes, and sizes that are specially made and designed to flatter a variety of body types. With the growing diversity in styles, it’s a lot easier now to find a suitable plus-size wedding dress that not only makes you feel good about yourself but also enhances your natural beauty. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Wedding Dress

To ensure you find the perfect plus size wedding dress that complements your figure and suits your style, there’s a list of key factors to consider. Let’s take a look at the key factors:

1. Silhouettes 

Different silhouettes can greatly influence how the dress looks on you. It’s important to choose the right one as it sets a strong foundation for your entire bridal look. Some of the popular silhouettes for plus size wedding dresses include A-line, empire waist, ballgown, and mermaid or trumpet. 

2. Fabric

When it comes to fabric, the fabric also plays an important role as it can affect the overall fit, appearance, and comfort so you might want to consider the right fabric for your wedding dress. Some of the fabrics include structured fabrics such as satin and lace which provide support and shape while lighter fabrics like chiffon and organza offer a more flowy and romantic look as well as feel.

3. Comfort

When choosing your wedding dress, prioritize comfort as you are going to be in your dress most of the time during your wedding. It’s best to choose something that looks amazing on you and fits you comfortably. Pick a dress that allows you to sit, move, and dance comfortably. Try and avoid heavy gowns especially if your wedding setting is outdoor on a hot day.

4. Personal Style

Every bride has her own style. Whether it’s a modern look, classic, bohemian chic, or glamorous look, there’s always one waiting for you. You should always go for the wedding dress that suits your personality.

5. Custom Alterations

You may want to consider getting custom alterations to get the perfect fit. Plan for alterations to adjust your wedding dress to the way you want it. 

Styles and Silhouettes for Plus Size Dresses

As for plus size wedding dresses, it’s best to understand the styles and silhouettes that are available for plus size dresses so you can select the wedding dress that suits you and your personality. There are a few different popular styles and silhouettes that look best on plus size brides. Here are some of the options: 

1. A-line Dress 

Being around for decades, A-line dresses are one of the most popular style for wedding dresses that are timeless and classic. It creates the shape of an ‘A’ where it’s fitted in the hips and then it gradually flares out to the hem of the dress, making it a suitable style for any body type, hence a popular choice for plus size brides. 

2. Ball Gown: 

This wedding dress silhouette is timeless and flattering on plus size brides. This style usually features a voluminous floor-length skirt, often with layers of fabric creating a dramatic effect or fairy tale romance look. It’s perfect for brides who have always dreamed of a fairy tale wedding. 

3. Empire Waist

This particular style has a high waistline just below the bust which flows into a graceful skirt. Empire waist dresses are ideal for plus size brides as they draw more attention to the bust neckline instead of the midsection and hips, creating a long elegant line. 

4. Mermaid or Trumpet

This mermaid or trumpet silhouette dress enhances the bride’s natural curves. The style is fitted through the midsection and hips which then flares out at or just below the knees. A Mermaid dress is ideal for brides who want to highlight their natural shape as the elongated shape also creates a taller and slimmer appearance. 

Fitting and Alterations: What to Expect

When it comes to fitting and alterations for your wedding dress, here’s what to expect:

First fitting

Your initial fitting will usually take the longest as you will need to adjust the dress according to your body shape and size to ensure it fits like a glove. Your seamstress will work with you and will assess which part of the wedding dress needs adjustments and alterations. 

Be sure to have an open mind if they have any suggestions. Ensure the dress fits well around the bust, waist, and hips. Your seamstress will pin any area on the dress where it needs to be taken out or added. 

Second fitting 

The second fitting is usually done with all the initial alterations to see if you can fit perfectly well in the dress. Further adjustments are done by your seamstress based on how the dress fits you after the first alterations. 

Ensure the dress is not too tight. If the dress fits right, try to move around in the dress to make sure it’s comfortable for you. 

Third fitting

The third and final fitting is for any last tweaks that need to be done and to ensure everything is perfect!  Usually at this point, you’re allowed to take home your wedding dress with you, so ensure you’re able to walk, sit and dance in your dress comfortably. 

Tips for Trying on Dresses

Choosing the perfect wedding dress to wear on your special day can be enjoyable. It’s one of the most exciting and important parts of the wedding planning process. Here are some tips for trying on dresses to make things easier for you.

1. Get the style right

When choosing a plus size bridal dress, it’s important to get the right style for your body shape. Select something that flaunts your curves and ensures it’s comfortable for you as you are going to be moving around in it most of the day.

2. Ignore the number

Don’t get discouraged by the number on the tag as most wedding dress sizes run smaller than regular clothing sizes. The most important thing is to find a wedding dress that fits you and make you feel beautiful!

3. Prioritize comfort

Comfort is crucial, so make sure you always prioritize comfort when trying on wedding dresses. Avoid choosing something that makes you uncomfortable no matter how beautiful it looks. 

4. Keep an open mind

You have probably done some research on wedding dress styles and silhouettes and most likely you already have it on your mind. However, when trying on wedding dresses, keep an open mind and try different silhouette styles.

5. Wear proper undergarments

Don’t forget to wear proper undergarments when trying out wedding dresses. Use a well-fitting bra and a shapewear which you plan to wear on your wedding day. 

6. Bring a supportive crew

Whether it’s your best friends or family members who you trust and who have an eye for fashion, it’s important to bring someone whose opinions you value so you don’t feel pressured while trying on wedding dresses.

Accessories to Complement Your Dress

Some accessories can enhance your bridal look while others may spoil the look. It’s crucial to choose the right accessories that complement your wedding dress. Here are some accessories you can consider adding to your bridal look!

1. Veils

A veil is the ultimate wedding accessory that you can add to your bridal look as it can add a touch of elegance and romance. There are many different lengths, materials and styles to choose from. Therefore choose something that complements the style of your wedding dress.

2. Hair accessories

From tiaras and crowns to flower crowns, hair accessories can help a bride style her hair in the way she wants it to be. It also adds a touch of personality to the overall bridal look. 

3. Jewelry

Jewelry for a bridal look comes in the form of earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. There are also several types to choose from, ranging from pearls to diamonds which can add a bit of sparkle to wedding dresses. 

4. Shoes

With the right pair of shoes, you can complete your bridal look, helping you feel confident and beautiful on your special day. Always prioritize comfort and hence, choose a pair of shoes that not only complements your wedding dress style but also feels super comfortable as you will be walking a lot and possibly dancing too!

Where to Rent or Shop for Plus Size Wedding Dresses

At La Belle Couture‘s Adele Collection, you can find a wide range of plus size wedding dresses available for you to choose from. They have collections that are thoughtfully designed and curated to cater to different styles, body types and body shapes to ensure that every bride feels her best on her special day!

Whether you’re looking for a plus size wedding dress to buy or to rent, La Belle Couture offers wedding gown rental services just for you so you can feel and look beautiful without worrying about the budget. 

If you are unsure about which wedding dress style suits you best for your big day, fret not as you can book a consultation session with us to discuss further your wedding dress needs.