How to Select a Plus Size Wedding Dress

One of the most important decisions that you as a bride will make is what you will wear on your special day. The wedding dress plays an important factor in how beautiful you look and feel. That's why choosing the right plus size dress to compliment your figure is so important.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Know your body shape.
   
   Regardless of weight, most figures fit into one or two categories. These categories are the hourglass, apple, pear and cone body shapes. Knowing what shape your body is will help you know what types of gowns will look best on your figure.
2. Choose your favorite style.
   
   Ball gown. Empire. A-line. Perhaps some of these sound familiar. They are the most popular wedding dress styles and will look different on each body type.
   
   Women who are petite or top heavy should avoid ball gowns. The full skirt can make you appear larger. On the other hand, A-line dresses can create a similar effect and are much more flattering.
   
   An empire dress is ideal for pear shapes since the dress flows from the bust line on down and draws the eyes upward.
   
   The A-line style compliments just about every figure and should be kept in mind.
3. Pick a neckline.
   
   There are many options to choose from in your search for the perfect neckline. Low-cut v-necks or sweetheart necklines are perfect for ladies with larger bust lines who want to show off their flirty side, while others may prefer the soft and sophisticated look of the sleeveless, halter or off the shoulder styles.
   
   Whichever you prefer, each one will affect the overall appearance of your gown.
4. Select your choice of sleeves.
   
   Although the sleeveless look has been a popular choice for brides, women with larger arms or who prefer a more conservative look may opt for sleeves. Fortunately capped sleeves are making a come back, and there is a large variety of longer sleeves as well.
   
   Shrugs, capes and wraps are also available and look sophisticated with many plus size wedding gowns.

Tips & Warnings

• Start shopping for your wedding dress six to twelve months before your wedding date. This ensures plenty of time to find the dress, get alterations and have it ready for your special day.
• When trying on dresses, be sure to wear shoes with the same size heel as the shoes you will wear on your wedding day.
• Get the dress tailored to fit you personally.