Weddings were back with a bang in 2022 after the pandemic has caused many weddings to be postponed or scaled down. The wedding boom is still very real this year and the main reason for the increase is that 202 was unable to absorb fully all the weddings that were postponed during the pandemic. Therefore in 2023, apart from the new celebrations, the industry will continue to celebrate weddings that have not taken place the year before.
If your wedding plans have been on hold, now is the time to start ticking off that "to-do" list like choosing the perfect wedding dress. Searching for a wedding gown can be rather daunting, especially for a plus-size bride. You may find it overwhelming trying to find gorgeous plus-size wedding dresses to fit your curvaceous figure in a world where being thin is in.
Plus-size wedding gowns are specifically designed to flatter fuller figures, accentuate curves, and offer extra coverage and support. In the bridal world, plus-size bridal dresses are size 18 and higher. If you are still unsure which style of dress will suit your body shape best, well don't worry. Ahead is some food for thought to help you find the best styles of a bridal gown of your dreams for the biggest day of your life.
Type Of Wedding Dress That Flatters Plus Size Brides
Wedding dresses come in many different silhouettes and some of the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for plus size brides are mermaid, A-line, sheath, high low and ball gown. Different body types require different design. The other factors to look out for in wedding dress are the neckline, waist and sleeves.
Mermaid Wedding Gowns
The mermaid silhouette is especially flattering for brides who are plus size. It follows the natural flow of curvy figure and features a flare that starts just above the knee. The bodice is fitted until just below the knee and this makes the legs appear longer and accentuate that waistline beautifully. This curve-hugging design is a favorite amongst curvy figured brides who are looking for comfort and glamour.
A-line wedding dresses are flattering for all bod y types. This classic style is particularly flattering because it fits snugly at the waist which is the narrowest part and flares out at the hips, to emphasize the most flattering curves. This is a slimming silhouette that helps to minimize the hips, waist, and derriere, without any restriction from the shape or fabric. Most A-line gowns have a subtle train that flows behind. There are also tea length option that shows off the legs while still embracing this shape.
Sheath Wedding Gowns
A sheath wedding gown is form fitting, from the bodice down to the hem. It emphasizes the curves, and is especially flattering for curvy or hourglass body types with slim waistlines, wide hips and large bust areas. Sheath-style wedding dresses always make the bride appear taller with longer legs and body. This is due to the sleek long line of the dress, especially if you keep it plain without any decorations.
High Low Wedding Gowns
If you are looking for a little modern twist to the traditional wedding dress, you may opt for a wedding dress with high-low hem. This dress style will highlight the legs and minimize the hips and midsection at the same time. The high-low hemline helps to elongate the frame and offers a balance of coverage. It will bring attention to your bridal shoes and adds just enough drama without revealing too much skin. A high-low wedding dress allows ample movement for dancing and is perfect for for a beautiful outdoor wedding.
Ballgown Wedding Dresses
If you want to feel like a princess on your big day, a ball gown silhouette is the ideal choice.It is one of the best wedding dress styles for plus size women as the skirt camouflages the tummy, hips and derriere while bringing attention to the neckline and the shoulders. The full skirt makes you feel like you are on top of a cloud as you float through the ceremony. It has a fitted body that helps to balance the look so that the fabric does not overwhelm the shape.
Flattering Necklines For Curvy Brides
Once you have chosen the silhouette that flatters your body best, the neckline is next to consider. A range of flattering necklines for curvy brides will draw the eyes up and help to elongate the frame. If you have a voluminous skirt, off shoulder dresses are flattering. A sweetheart neckline is among the most popular for all brides. A V-neckline wedding dress is also flattering for curvy brides. When it comes to choosing the type of neckline, there is actually no set rules. The only thing to keep in mind is the coverage and support you want in order to balance out the wedding gown.
Off The Shoulder Wedding Gowns
As the name implies, off the shoulder neckline sits below the shoulders to showcase the collarbone and shoulders. It has sleeves that cover part of the upper arm. Off-the-shoulder wedding dresses are marvelous in any silhouette from ball gown to A-line, mermaid to sheath plus size dresses. This neckline will give a sexy yet refined style so that you can wear your hair in a sexy updo and show off those gorgeous shoulders. This neckline can be incredibly flattering in balancing a pear shaped figure.
Sweetheart Neckline Wedding Dresses
Sweetheart gowns are the cream of the crop amongst all the different types of wedding dresses. You can choose strapless, illusion neckline, or even spaghetti straps for the wedding gown of your dreams. The sweetheart neckline resembles the top half of a heart shape and is a wonderful option for women who are busty because it really accentuates the decolletage.
V-Neckline Wedding Dresses
The V-neckline dips down in the front in a V-Shape and it de-emphasizes the bustline. A V-neck wedding gown is ideal for those who want the appearance of a longer torso because it adds length to the neck and chest area of the body. Lengthening is flattering for a plus-size bride as it gives a slimming effect.
Plunging Neckline Wedding Dresses
More daring brides may opt for a plunging neckline that dips low to accentuate the décolletage and elongate the torso while adding a sexy flash of skin. If you are worried about a wardrobe malfunction, well don't worry as most plunging necklines come with illusion mesh. For brides who want to rock a long sleeve wedding gown, a plunge is a great way to balance out the coverage.
Halter Neck Wedding Dresses
Halter necklines are also a great choice with a plus size shape, especially those with a fuller chest. The shape of the halter neckline draws the eye closer to the center of the body. This is where the slimming effect comes into play.