Choosing a plus size dress can feel daunting and you may be worried that you won’t have the same selection to choose from. Fortunately, loads of designers now carry curve and plus size ranges so – hurrah – there’s a much wider selection out there for curvy brides.
The most important thing when choosing your wedding dress, is to get into a boutique and get trying on. We’re spoilt for choice with amazing bridal boutiques across Ireland and Northern Ireland – and you’ll find some of the best ones in our online directory here.
If you’re feeling nervous about finding your perfect dress, or just a bit lost about where to start, we have you covered with tips for finding ‘the one’ and a breakdown of the most popular curve-flatting styles.
The Curvy Bride’s Guide To Finding The Dress
Look for curvy bride inspo
Before you start pinning dresses to your dream dress Pinterest board, it’s super important to look at models who are a similar shape and size to you. This way you’ll get a much better idea of how different styles might look on your body. Keep this in mind when you start your search.
Bring your most trusted friends and family to your fittings
Everyone needs someone who is honest but kind and this is particularly true when trying on wedding dresses, so make sure to bring along people whose opinions you trust. The goal is to have a small supportive crew who’ll give you their most honest opinions in the most gentle way possible.
Make the most of your assets
Pick and choose what you want on show and what you’d rather keep under wraps. Maybe you don’t like your waist, but consider your cleavage your best asset. Look to sweetheart or V-cut necklines to show it off. Love your legs? Try a thigh split or a 50s-inspired to the knee gown. It’s all about working your best features and flashing the flesh in all the right places so you can feel cool and confident.
Don’t buy a dress to slim into
Seriously, life is too short, so unless it’s something you feel really empowered to do, forget about dieting before the wedding and enjoy all the celebrations that surround being engaged instead. A dress that suits you and fits correctly will look amazing no matter your size.
Consider a sleeve
Arms not your favourite feature? You don’t have to opt for a matronly gown. Opt for a light, lacy full length sleeve (like Kate Middleton’s Sarah Burton gown) or consider a cap sleeve, if it’s just the top of your arms you’re conscious of. Don’t like a spaghetti strap? It’s simple, you don’t have to wear one if you don’t want to.
Decide on detachables
Add ons that can be removed when it’s time for dinner and dancing are your friend, think detachable sleeves, capes , jackets and skirts that can be removed after hours. Bonus point, you get to change your look for the evening do without the expense of a second dress. Score.
Beat chafing
Worried about the dreaded chub rub and don’t want it detracting from your big day? There are lots of ways you can stop your thighs from chafing, from anti-chafing bands you can nab on the high street, to using a small layer of talc to ease the friction. You don’t have to suffer if you come prepared.
Don’t be swayed
You might think you have to choose a certain style of dress to suit your figure on your wedding day, but don’t be afraid to break the rules. Wear what you want as long as you feel comfortable and confident. It’s important to stick to your guns and not be too swayed by the opinions of others too.
Top picks
All in the neck
A V or sweetheart neckline is perfect for showcasing an ample cleavage.
Keenan Lynette by Maggie Sottero
Stephanie Grace by Sophia Tolli
Style PH8003 from Phoenix Gowns
The Ballgown
Don’t be afraid to go full fairytale – dramatic ballgowns look fabulous on a fuller figure.
The sleeve
If it’s good enough for Kate Middleton! Full sleeves add an extra touch of elegance.
The hourglass
If you’ve got it flaunt it. These gowns are ace at showcasing those killer curves.
We absolutely recommend visiting a bridal boutique when buying a Plus Sized dress. The Wedding Journal Directory has a range of stunning dress designers in all regions around Ireland & Northern Ireland. So, take a look, we only recommend the most reputable wedding dress & bridal shops.
