Choosing the Best Plus Size Wedding Dress

May 21
11:29

2024

Samyuk Dec

Samyuk Dec

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Shopping for a wedding dress should be a joyous experience, not a source of stress and burnout. Every bride deserves to look and feel her best on her special day, regardless of size.

The Challenges of Finding Plus Size Wedding Dresses

Historically,Choosing the Best Plus Size Wedding Dress Articles plus size brides have faced significant challenges in finding the perfect wedding dress. The primary reasons include a lack of designers catering to larger sizes, the high cost of fabric, and the elevated prices for custom bridal apparel.

Limited Availability and High Costs

Many designers and bridal stores have traditionally focused on smaller sizes, leaving plus size brides with fewer options. According to a 2019 survey by The Knot, only 9% of bridal shops in the U.S. carry sample sizes above 16, despite the average American woman wearing a size 16-18 (The Knot). This scarcity often leads to higher prices for plus size wedding dresses due to the increased fabric and custom tailoring required.

Online Shopping: A Double-Edged Sword

While online shopping offers a broader range of options, it comes with its own set of challenges. Brides cannot try on the dress before purchasing, making it difficult to ensure a perfect fit. Additionally, many online retailers do not offer tailored options, which can be a significant drawback for plus size brides.

Finding the Right Dress

Despite these challenges, there are ways to find the perfect plus size wedding dress. Here are some tips:

Local Bridal Shops

Many local bridal shops now offer a selection of plus size wedding dresses. These dresses typically range from size 14 to 32, providing a variety of styles and fits. It's essential to call ahead and confirm the availability of plus size samples to try on.

Specialty Stores

Specialty bridal shops that focus on plus size dresses can be a great resource. These stores often carry a wider range of styles and sizes, ensuring that every bride can find a dress that makes her feel beautiful.

Magazines and Online Resources

Magazines and online resources can provide inspiration and guidance. Websites like Brides and The Knot offer extensive galleries of plus size wedding dresses, along with tips for finding the perfect fit.

The Importance of Accurate Measurements

When ordering a wedding dress, accurate measurements are crucial. Even if the correct measurements are provided, alterations are often necessary to achieve the perfect fit. It's recommended to work with a professional tailor who has experience with bridal gowns.

The Evolution of Plus Size Bridal Fashion

The fashion industry has made significant strides in recent years to accommodate plus size brides. Designers now create stunning dresses that highlight and celebrate the beauty of fuller figures. This shift is reflected in the growing availability of plus size wedding dresses in mainstream fashion houses.

Interesting Statistics

  • The average cost of a wedding dress in the U.S. is $1,631, but plus size dresses can cost 10-15% more due to additional fabric and custom tailoring (The Knot).
  • According to a 2020 survey by Brides, 70% of plus size brides reported difficulty finding a wedding dress that fit their style and size (Brides).

Conclusion

Finding the perfect plus size wedding dress may come with its challenges, but with the right resources and a bit of patience, every bride can find a dress that makes her feel beautiful and confident on her special day. Whether shopping locally or online, it's essential to explore all available options and seek professional advice to ensure the best fit and style.

By embracing the evolving landscape of plus size bridal fashion, brides of all sizes can look forward to a wedding day that truly reflects their unique beauty and style.