I was eager to have my first post be about a topic I felt was ignored in other media and blogs – plus size brides. Yes, we exist! I married my amazing husband almost exactly one year ago, and as someone who wears a size 18, I felt completely unprepared for shopping for my wedding dress (other than what I saw on “Say Yes to the Dress” – which I now know is completely unrealistic)! That's me in the pic below getting dressed for the big day with my pretty-as-a-peach mom and gorgeous cousin.
Disclaimer: this post will be focused on dresses priced in the mid to low range – unfortunately I have no knowledge of how to actually purchase a custom Vera Wang gown (but you know, if you want to swing one my way, I wouldn't complain).
1. Start with David's Bridal or Alfred Angelo.
If you have a David's Bridal or Alfred Angelo store near you, go!
Many sources will suggest looking at bridal magazines and the like first, but it was my experience that the most helpful thing was actually being able to try the dresses on, in the correct sizes, instead of being completely adrift in a sea of bridal gown ads ripped from countless magazines. Unfortunately, most bridal shops only carry a dress in one sample size (typically somewhere around a size 6 or 8, maybe a 10), but David's Bridal and Alfred Angelo are awesome at having different styles of wedding dresses in stores up to a size 28 or 30.
Even if the dresses aren't your style, or you're looking for something more upscale, it is invaluable to learn what type of dress flatters your figure and what you feel fabulous in. You may have thought you wanted a strapless mermaid dress, but after trying on every style, learned that a v-neck a-line dress actually looks phenomenal on you!
2. Check Out the Magazines and Manufacturers.
Armed with your “real life” knowledge of what flatters your figure, you can now turn to the omnipresent bridal magazines with a focus. Ignore what you know doesn't flatter you, and narrow in on what you love. Pull out inspiration, note designers and labels that you are drawn to, and start Googling them. Many wedding dress designers and manufacturers actually offer wedding dresses up to size 28 (even though the shop only has that pesky size 8 on hand).
Tall brides 5'8″ and up – take note! Some designers do offer gowns in extended lengths, but not all. Make sure that the dress you are looking at comes in extended lengths before you fall in love with it (or you could be like me and have to return your adorable heels and scramble for white flats at the last minute – not fun).
3. Hit the Bridal Shops!
Once you have figured out the designers and labels you prefer, call around to your local bridal shops and make sure they carry those brands. They will also be able to tell you if they have sample dresses in your size. Make appointments in advance, and bring as few people as possible (I recommend just your parent(s) and one close friend or relative whose style opinion you trust with your life). No need for a peanut gallery!
Wear undergarments that are similar to what you might wear on the big day (check out these wedding shapewear options), and make sure you feel comfortable in them because it's common for a shop assistant to be in the dressing room with you, helping you put on the dresses. Find a shop that is supportive of your needs – if they make you feel like doodoo because you're plus size, hightail it outta there. They don't deserve your business.
4. Consider a Custom Plus Size Wedding Dress
If you don't find a dress that you love at any of the bridal shops, consider working with someone to design a custom plus size wedding dress just for you. Do a Google search for “custom wedding dress” plus your city and see what comes up or you can even search a site like Etsy to see what's available. While a custom wedding dress might seem expensive, oftentimes they can cost the same or less than what you'd pay for a dress from a store!
Some additional handy tips for shopping for a plus size wedding dress:
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Bring a camera so you can see how the dress photographs on you
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Sit down in the dress – you'd be surprised how the silhouette changes
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Start the dress shopping process as early as possible – many dress manufacturers need 6-9 months lead time for bridal orders
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If you want something specialized (vintage, a style with sleeves, a custom gown) start even earlier
Lastly, just try and enjoy (or tolerate) the experience. I'm not going to lie to you – shopping for a wedding dress as a plus size bride to be can be extremely frustrating. I recall crying my eyes out in a fitting room because none of the dresses would fit over my shoulders or hips, while the petite girl next to me twirled around in every tiny dress she tried on. Just remember – you are beautiful, you are not alone, and you WILL find a dress that you love!
Plus Size Wedding Dresses we Love:
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