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Step 1
Take accurate measurements before you head out to the bridal shop to look for a plus size wedding dress. You can supply the sales clerk with this information, which may help identify those dresses which can be made in larger sizes to fit your bust, waist and hip measurements.
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Step 2
Wear the kind of supportive undergarments you might wear on the day of your wedding when you shop for plus size wedding gowns. You should also wear them for all of your fittings to ensure accurate alterations in the dress you buy.
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Step 3
Shop for a dress that will de-emphasize your problem areas while bring attention to your best features. This will involve becoming familiar with the variety of silhouettes available in the bridal gown market.
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Step 4
Seek out slim A-line dresses if you have a pear-shaped figure. These draw attention to your bust and shoulders while minimizing the appearance of your waist and hips.
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Step 5
Find a princess-cut dress if you want to show off your longer torso and slimmer waist. These dresses have the bodice and skirt cut in one, providing the body with a slimming, long line from shoulder to just below the waist, where the skirt can be cut into an A-line, hiding wider hips and rear.
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Step 6
Shop for a cover-up to wear with your strapless or tank-style gown. Since strapless gowns continue to be popular in bridal fashion, you can use this option to cover up problem areas in your arms and shoulders without having to have a sleeved gown custom-made.
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Step 7
Buy a dress with a heavier-weight fabric. Since bias-cut and knit fabrics tend to cling to every curve, they should be avoided in favor of heavy-weight fabrics which help shape your body.
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Step 8
Buy your dress at least 6 months in advance of your wedding date to allow plenty of time for construction and delivery. Most plus size dresses can't be bought straight off the rack.
