Plus Size Bridal
Wedding dresses for plus size women are incredibly beautiful. No, that is isn’t shock so much as it is relief. I ventured into a new (to me) shop this week that provides wedding attire for regular and plus size brides-to-be and was reminded of the wonderful variety now available.
David’s Bridal provides multiple images (with zoom feature) to see details important to the bridal shopper; some even offer a video feature of the dress in motion. It’s fabulous to see the dress move and really get a feel for what it is like from all angles. This seems to be a growing trend (Igigi for one) in providing better service to online shoppers. Another great feature is having dress descriptives linked to a glossary! They also have a section on body types with graphics actually drawn over the different body types/dresses so you can see what they are referring to. This is incredibly helpful for women wanting to take care of “problem areas” but not really sure of different body types.
The dresses range in style from classic to modern. Unfortunately the majority of the dresses are shoulder bare or strapless. I only found one short sleeve dress. They definitely need to step up their short (and three-quarter) sleeve selection to accommodate more plus size brides. The prices for bridal dresses range from affordable to boutique prices (a few hundred to a thousand). Their shippings costs are reasonable — $14.95.
Here are four of my favorites plus size wedding dresses covering a large range of pricing:
Charmeuse V-neck Halter Wedding Dress (Style: 9SV9563)
I love the ruched fabric that pulls from the breast down low on the waist followed by the beaded embroidery on the drop waist. This unique looking charmeuse bridal dress is available in sizes 14 to 26 for $850. It is available in white or ivory. 
Satin A-line Tank Wedding Dress (Style: 9V9570)
This dress has such a wonderful shape about it from the pleated breast down to the multiple darts at the waistline. The beading under the breast gives it a delicate look. This satin wedding dress comes in sizes 14 to 26 for $399. With the tank cut there is no need to worry about finding an appropriate bra that will be properly hidden.
Side-Drape Embroidered Dress (Style: 9BR1009)
Don’t let anyone tell you that plus size women can’t wear satin. If it is the right satin dress then you will look fabulous. This A-line dress is made with beautiful satin that has been properly ruched at the waist with an accenting side drape for added appeal. The added beaded along neckline and down side drape are virtually invisible far away but a lovely accent up close. It is available in sizes 14 to 26 for $219. Make sure you check out the video on this one!
Satin Off-the-Shoulder A-Line with Side-Drape (Style: 9BR1035)
This dress also has the side drape with pleats that are extremely flattering but the dress is given a totally different look with the off the shoulder neckline — perfect for showing off a strong collar bone. This dress is available in sizes 14 to 26 for $199. Check out the video on this one too!
Like most bridal shops David’s Bridal also has the accessories like underthings, shoes and purses.
***
Topic Links
* Visit David’s Bridal for plus size dresses
I tried on similar styles to these at David’s Bridal and some did look good, and no one can argue that they aren’t priced well. That being said, I didn’t think the construction and materials of the dresses were all that great. Many designers also extend their dress sizes, and smart bridal salons are taking the hint and offering a selection of plus-size samples to try on. I ended up with a dress by Anjolique.
.-= Emily´s last blog ..Eats | 7.27.09 =-.
That’s good know. In my mind the more expensive it is the better made usually follows; like I would not expect a $800 dress to be the same quality as a $100 dress. I’m still hearing that bridal salons are very limited in what they have to offer the plus size future bride to try on (nothing over 20, sometimes 18) so it’s nice to hear some are “taking the hint” after all this time. Was your Angolique dress sleeveless? Tell me more! 😀
When I looked for a dress, I called every salon in a 90 mile radius of me to ask what kind of plus size selection they had. Ended up with about 4 salons that I could really try on lots of styles at. The salon I ended up purchasing from had a smaller selection, but when I told the owner I wanted to look for something with lace, (all the other dresses ended up looking the same- satiny with beading at the top and an a-line skirt) she ordered a sample in my size and had me try it on. No strings attached and it was perfect.
OMG, it’s so beautiful (you too!). I love all the lace. The bridesmaids dresses are lovely too. Great accent color.