Wedding dress shopping can be daunting for brides-to-be. It can be even more nerve-wracking when you’re a plus-size bride. You’ll need planning and lots of preparation to find and purchase a comfortable wedding dress that looks fabulous. Helping brides plan the wedding of their dreams is one of our goals here at Blissfully Wedded. So as a plus-size bride, we have some expert tips you can apply. Here’s all you need to know about wedding dress shopping as a plus-size bride.
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What Is Plus Size for Wedding Dresses?
Many shops ask brides to size up when placing their orders. Many brides are surprised to find that sizing for wedding dresses runs small. Shopping in stores could also end up causing problems for plus sizes brides as they tend to stock mostly sizes 8, 10, and 12. For plus-size brides, the numbers start from size 14 and could go as high as 40. It doesn’t mean that this is your actual size; wedding dresses tend to be on the very tight-fitting end. So, keep this in mind as you shop and remember that the label on your clothes does not define you. Now, to the tips.
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Research
When going wedding dress shopping, knowing which stores stock plus size dresses is always important, and it also applies when shopping for your dress online. So, do lots of research before you decide to get started. Some things to pay attention to include the style you like and the store reviews. You can also check out social media and the website of the stores you’ll be choosing.
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Sizing
As we mentioned earlier, sizing on wedding dresses tend to run small. So as a plus-size bride, you must ensure that the store you choose stocks in your size, which is especially important if you plan to buy off the rack.
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Time
As a plus size bride, experts advise shopping for your gown at least ten months before your wedding. Doing this will give you enough time to find the perfect dress and carry out any alterations needed without stress.
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Buy for Your Current Size
You are wedding dress ready just as you are. You don’t need to lose weight to fit in the dress you buy. So, please don’t ask for a smaller size and hope to fit in by going on a crazy diet. When wedding dress shopping, order the dress that looks good on you and makes you feel fabulous, and when placing the order, please do it for your current size. It’s the job of the dress to fit you and not the other way around.
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It’s Okay to Be Nervous
Every bride feels nervous when going wedding dress shopping. What’s important is that you don’t let the nerves win. If you start to feel anxious and dreadful, try to avoid letting it get to the part where you procrastinate. Speaking with a loved one could help get you back on track.
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Your Shopping Crew
Knowing who to go with and who to leave at home is essential. If you are doing physical shopping, the people you go with will affect your experience. So don’t have someone accompany you just because they are a friend. The people you need are those who will support you and help you make the best choice. Keep your list small and intimate if possible. You want to avoid ending up having too many contrasting ideas. Hence, Your caustic friend who is a harsh critic should not be on your list.
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Keep an Open Mind
We often surprise ourselves and look good in a style we’d have rejected. When it comes to a wedding dress, the rules are often different, so keep an open mind when shopping. The worst that could happen is that you don’t like it and move on to another option.
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Let Your Inspiration Be Plus Size
When looking at styles on Pinterest and magazines, look for plus-size models. They’ll give you a better idea of what the dress and style will look like on your body. Dresses often fit a curvier figure more differently than a non-plus-size model.
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Glam Up and Go
Shopping for your wedding dress is an experience that all brides look forward to. So, avoid dragging yourself out of bed in the morning and hitting the streets. How about glamming up a little before heading out? Doing your hair and makeup will boost your confidence. You could even choose a style similar to what you’ll go with for your wedding. That way, you’ll get an advanced look at how gorgeous you’ll be in the dress you buy.
