Plus Size Bridesmaid Dress
From LoveToKnow Weddings
Shopping for a Plus Size Bridesmaid Dress
Shopping for a plus size bridesmaid dress can be a challenging experience. Did you know that almost 70 percent of women in the United States wear a size 12 or above? However, bridal stores traditionally offer try-on samples in a size 8!
Fortunately, some companies are adapting to meet the changing needs of their clientele. In addition to offering larger try-on samples, these stores are developing collections of plus size bridesmaid dresses based to fit a full figured woman’s curves instead of merely being larger versions of existing styles.
The following places are frequently recommended by full figured women for their stylish plus size bridesmaid dresses:
- David’s Bridal has an exclusive collection of gowns in sizes 14W to 26W. These dresses were designed using the measurements of hundreds of full figured women.
- Alfred Angelo offers dresses in sizes 2 to 28W to fit your entire bridal party. Most dresses have 46 color options and a wide variety of bridal separates are also available. You can find them at Alfred Angelo Bridal Company Stores or selected full-service bridal stores throughout the country.
- JCPenney Bridal is a great choice for bridesmaids on a tight budget. They offer affordable yet stylish dresses in sizes up to 24W.
- Sydney’s Closet only has one store location is St. Louis, but you can purchase bridesmaid dresses up to a size 44 from their online store and ask a local seamstress to make any needed alterations. Tall sizes are also available.
- Plus Size Bridal is an online outlet that offers affordable dresses in sizes up to 28W.
Choosing a Flattering Dress
If you’re not a full figured bride, it can be difficult to know what type of dress will look best on your plus size bridesmaids. However, remembering the following basic tips can help steer you towards appropriate styles:
- Many plus size women feel uncomfortable showing off their arms. If possible, pick a dress that comes with an optional shawl or jacket.
- If your plus size bridesmaid has a large chest, look for a dress with either sleeves or large straps so she can wear her most supportive bra.
- Most plus size women prefer longer dresses to shorter styles.
- A-line or empire waist dresses are generally the most flattering styles for plus size women. Avoid clingy and form fitting dresses at all costs.
Making a Compromise
While it’s not always easy to find a flattering plus size bridesmaid dress, the issue becomes more complicated when you have a bridal party that includes women with several different body types. The dress your full figured sister prefers might not flatter your petite college roommate or your athletic cousin.
If this is the case, making a compromise is the best way to save your sanity. Pick a simple style of dress and allow your bridesmaids to make the alterations they feel appropriate. Everyone will still wear the same color and length, but your bridesmaids will be able to choose details such as whether they want sleeveless, short sleeve, or tank top styles. Or, if extensive alterations are cost prohibitive, pick a company that offers mix and match bridal separates.
Related Articles
Learn More
This page has been accessed 18,700 times. This page was last modified 19:33, 1 September 2007.
© 2006-2009 LoveToKnow Corp.

Visit us on facebook