Top Styles for Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Finding the perfect wedding dress is a dream for many brides-to-be, and those who wear plus size have gorgeous options. Designers are embracing inclusivity, with stunning styles that celebrate every body type. Here are the top trends for best wedding dresses for plus size that combine elegance with comfort.
A-line Dresses
A-line dresses stand out as one of the best wedding dresses for plus size brides. With a fitted bodice that flares gently from the waist, this style is flattering for all shapes. It creates a balanced silhouette, enhancing curves while providing ease of movement. A-line designs are versatile, working well with various fabrics and embellishments.
Mermaid Silhouettes
For brides looking to make a statement, mermaid silhouettes offer a dramatic option. These dresses hug the body until the knee, where they flare out like a mermaid’s tail. They accentuate curves, making them a bold choice for brides who want to show off their figure confidently. When opting for a mermaid gown, look for stretch fabrics to ensure comfort throughout the event.
Ball Gowns
Ball gowns are the epitome of fairytale weddings. With voluminous skirts and fitted bodices, they provide a classic, princess-like aesthetic. This style suits plus size brides beautifully, offering structure and support. Ball gowns often feature luxurious fabrics like satin or tulle, making them a grand choice for a wedding.
Empire Waist Designs
Empire waist dresses feature a raised waistline that sits just below the bust. This style lengthens the body, creating an illusion of height. It is forgiving and comfortable, with space for the lower body, making it ideal for plus size brides. Empire waist gowns work well in soft fabrics like chiffon, adding romantic flow to the dress.
Fabric Choices for Plus Size Gowns
Choosing the right fabric is essential for any wedding dress, especially for plus size gowns where comfort and appearance are paramount.
Lace
Lace is a timeless option that adds romance and elegance to any wedding gown. Its intricate patterns provide texture and depth, making it a popular choice for bodices and sleeves. Lace gowns offer a classic look while still allowing for flexibility and breathability, which is essential for plus size brides.
Chiffon
Chiffon is loved for its light, airy qualities, which create a flowy, ethereal look. It’s an excellent choice for plus size wedding dresses because it drapes beautifully, flattering the figure without adding bulk. Chiffon is often used in empire waist designs, enhancing the dress’s overall gracefulness.
Satin
Satin is synonymous with luxury and provides a smooth, glossy finish that exudes sophistication. For plus size gowns, satin works well because it offers structure and shines without compromising on comfort. It’s particularly effective in ball gowns, where it can highlight the grandeur of the skirt.
Tulle
Tulle brings a fairy-tale quality to wedding dresses, perfect for those who dream of a princess-like look. It’s lightweight and voluminous, making it ideal for creating dramatic, full skirts for ball gowns without being too heavy. Plus size brides will appreciate tulle’s ability to add drama without weight.
Latest Color Trends for Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Celebrating your wedding day in a dress that not only fits perfectly but also reflects your personality through color has become more accessible for plus size brides. Let’s explore the most popular color trends enhancing the beauty of plus size wedding gowns in recent times.
Traditional White
White remains the classic choice when it comes to wedding dresses. This timeless hue symbolizes purity and elegance. For plus size brides, white is an excellent choice as it offers a blank canvas that works with various embellishments and styles, from lace to satin.
Soft Pastels
Pastel shades have been a hit for wedding dresses, offering a touch of color while keeping the look soft and romantic. Plus size brides often select blush, powder blue, or mint green for a gentle and flattering look. These colors are perfect for outdoor or springtime weddings.
Bold and Vibrant Colors
Many plus size brides are embracing bold and vibrant colors to make a statement on their special day. Rich reds, deep blues, and even black can create a stunning and unforgettable look. These colors work well in designs that celebrate curves, such as mermaid silhouettes or dresses with an empire waist.
Dress Features That Enhance Comfort and Fit
Comfort and fit are key when selecting the best wedding dresses for plus size brides. Let’s delve into dress features that can make a big difference.
Built-in Corsets
Built-in corsets provide structure and support, essential for any bride to feel secure on her special day. They help define the waist and ensure the dress fits snugly, enhancing your natural curves without sacrificing comfort. Corseted bodices are often adjustable, which allows for a custom fit even if your body changes slightly before the wedding.
Adjustable Backs
Adjustable backs, such as lace-up or hook-and-eye closures, offer flexibility for plus size brides. They allow the dress to be easily tightened or loosened, providing a perfect fit throughout the day. This flexibility is particularly useful during long wedding festivities, ensuring brides stay comfortable from the ceremony to the last dance.
Stretch Fabrics
Stretch fabrics are a plus size bride’s best friend. Fabrics like spandex blend, jersey, or stretch lace conform to the body, providing ease of movement and a flattering fit. These materials accommodate different body shapes gracefully, ensuring that you feel as good as you look on your wedding day. With stretch fabrics, brides can dance and move freely, with no need to worry about restrictive dress fabrics.
Accessorizing Your Plus Size Wedding Dress
Accessorizing is vital in completing the look of the best wedding dresses for plus size brides. The right accessories not only enhance the dress but also reflect a bride’s personality and style. From finding the perfect veil to selecting statement jewelry and comfortable footwear, each element plays a crucial role in the overall bridal ensemble.
Choosing the Right Veil
A veil can transform a wedding gown, adding a touch of elegance and tradition. For plus size brides, consider veils that balance the proportions of the dress. Longer veils, like cathedral or chapel styles, elongate the figure. Meanwhile, shorter ones, like birdcage veils, add a vintage feel without overwhelming the dress. Look for veils made with lighter fabrics such as tulle or lace that float effortlessly and complement your gown.
Selecting Jewelry
Jewelry is a personal touch that can highlight your best features. A simple, elegant necklace draws attention to the neckline, while drop earrings can accentuate the face. Plus size brides should choose pieces that align with the dress’s design—delicate for simpler gowns, bolder for more ornate ones. Avoid heavy or chunky jewelry that might compete with the dress’s details.
Footwear Options
Comfortable and stylish footwear is key, as brides will be on their feet for most of the day. Heels can offer height and a graceful posture, but make sure they are stable and a manageable height. For better comfort, consider wedges or flats that have padded insoles and are made from soft materials. The shoes’ color and style should harmonize with the dress, completing your dream wedding look.
Celebrity Inspirations and Popular Choices
Finding the best wedding dresses for plus size brides can be easier with some celebrity inspiration. Many public figures have showcased how plus size wedding dresses can be both fashionable and flattering.
Celebrities Who Wore Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Several celebrities have beautifully embraced their curves in stunning plus size bridal gowns. These women serve as role models, showing that size is not a barrier to looking radiant on your wedding day. For instance, Rebel Wilson wore a custom-made gown that fit her figure perfectly. Tess Holliday’s wedding dress was another example, with a design that combined comfort with a chic, classic look.
Popular Designers for Plus Size Wedding Gowns
Some fashion designers are known for creating the best wedding dresses for plus size brides. Hayley Paige, for example, designs dresses that highlight plus size brides’ best features. Mori Lee offers a variety of styles, ensuring there is a flattering fit for every bride. Other notable designers include Essense of Australia and Watters, both offering inclusive sizes and contemporary styles. When searching for the perfect gown, consider designers dedicated to inclusivity and who celebrate every body type.
Tips for Shopping Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Finding the best wedding dresses for plus size brides involves knowing where to shop, what to look for, and how to schedule fittings. Here are some valuable tips to make your shopping experience a success.
Where to Shop
Start with bridal boutiques that specialize in plus sizes. They carry a range of sizes and understand the fitting needs for fuller figures. Look for stores with positive reviews from plus size customers. Also, explore online shops that offer custom sizing options and detailed size guides.
What to Look for in Fit and Style
Seek out dresses that define your waist and enhance your shape. Look for quality fabrics and comfortable designs. A-line dresses and empire waists flatter many plus size brides. Pay attention to dresses that have adjustable features, like corset backs or stretch fabrics. These provide a better fit and allow for body changes.
Scheduling Appointments
Book your appointments well in advance. This gives you plenty of time to explore options and make alterations. Schedule them during quieter hours for more personalized attention. Bring a trusted friend or family member for honest feedback. Remember, comfort is as important as style, so choose the best wedding dresses for plus size that offer both.