You’ve said yes to the proposal, and now comes one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning—finding your dream dress! But if you’re a plus-size bride, you might feel a bit nervous. The wedding industry, like most of fashion, is still behind the times when it comes to providing inclusively flattering and diverse gowns across the board. But the situation is changing day by day, and it’s never been a better time to be a plus-size bride than now. If you’re still unsure, though, Alexandra’s Boutique is here to support you on your dress-buying journey.
Below, we walk through some mistakes to avoid when plus-size wedding dress shopping. Your gown should make you feel absolutely radiant, confident, and authentically you, and the following advice will help you find just that gown!
Shopping at Stores Without Proper Plus-Size Selection
Nothing deflates the wedding dress shopping experience quite like walking into a boutique that only carries samples up to size 14. You want to actually try on dresses, not just browse styles you think look pretty.
Many physical boutiques have online storefronts as well where you can review their catalogues and filter for your size. If the boutique you’re interested in doesn’t have a website, call the shop before booking an appointment to inquire about their plus-size selection. Find out what sample sizes they carry and whether they have experience working with plus-size brides.
Better yet, seek out boutiques that specifically cater to plus-size brides or have dedicated plus-size sections. These stores understand your needs and stock styles that look amazing on curvier figures. Overall, finding the right boutique is the single most important step in finding a gown you love and getting the friendly, expert support you deserve.
Focusing Only on Hiding Rather Than Highlighting
There’s a difference between squeezing into a dress that doesn’t fit and stepping into a form-fitting gown that highlights your figure. But because of a lack of diversity in many boutiques and the wedding industry as a whole, many plus-size brides experience a few too-tight dresses and decide to buy oversized gowns instead. There’s no need for this. Your wedding dress should highlight your favorite features and visually balance your proportions, not camouflage your entire body.
Think about what you love about your body and choose a dress that emphasizes those features. Most plus-size brides love A-line gowns. Whatever you choose, the right dress should make you feel gorgeous and confident, not hidden away.
Ignoring Proper Undergarments
What you wear underneath your dress can influence how it looks from the outside. For example, a supportive bra, shapewear, or corset can transform how a dress fits and feels.
Invest in professional bra fitting before you start trying on dresses. Even if you already know your bra size, check it again because a well-fitted bra is the easiest way to improve your posture, highlight your best silhouette, and elevate the appeal of certain dress styles. Some bridal boutiques offer undergarment consultations, which can be incredibly valuable for this reason.
Pro Tip
Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out your undergarments. Purchase them early in the process so you can do all your fittings with the same foundation pieces you’ll wear on your wedding day.
Dismissing Styles Based on Assumptions
You might walk into a bridal shop convinced that certain styles won’t work for your body type. Maybe you’ve ruled out mermaid dresses or anything strapless based on what you think will look good.
The reality is that every body is different, and you might be surprised by what styles actually flatter you. For example, a mermaid dress designed with larger bodies in mind can accentuate and flatter your stunning curves.
Keep an open mind during your appointments. Try on styles you wouldn’t normally consider—you might discover your dream dress in an unexpected cut.
Skipping the Professional Fitting Process
Never skip professional fittings or try to cut corners with alterations. A dress that fits perfectly will photograph better, feel more comfortable, and boost your confidence throughout your wedding day.
Moreover, the whole point of fittings and alterations is to make a gown fit you, not force you to fit a gown. If you find a dress you fall in love with, but the dimensions aren’t quite right, alterations can work a lot of magic. You don’t have to feel limited to a plus-size bridal selection, nor do you have to settle for a plus-size gown that isn’t unique to your curves.
Pro Tip
Start the fitting and alteration process at least two months before your wedding, but longer is better. Alterations typically take six to eight weeks to complete, and you don’t want to stress about your gown being ready on time.
Letting Others’ Opinions Override Your Instincts
Some people in your life might offer opinions about your dress that don’t align with your vision. Even if they mean well, these comments can be frustrating, hurtful, and completely unnecessary. Because in the end, the only opinion that matters is yours.
This is your day and your dress. Trust your instincts about what makes you feel beautiful and confident. A dress that makes you feel amazing will translate to stunning photos and unforgettable memories.
Your Perfect Dress Awaits at Alexandra’s Boutique
Plus-size wedding dress shopping should be joyful, empowering, and exciting. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re setting yourself up for a positive experience that results in finding a dress you absolutely love.
Take your time, trust the process, and remember that your perfect dress is out there waiting for you. Focus on how each dress makes you feel rather than arbitrary rules about what you “should” wear. Your confidence and happiness will shine through, making any dress you choose absolutely perfect for your special day.
At Alexandra’s Boutique, we’re here to support you on your journey. We offer an inclusive selection of large-size wedding dresses from top designers. We carry sizes 18–28, and our in-store team can provide styling and alteration services to make sure the gown you love fits like a glove. Schedule your appointment today!