Beautiful Plus Size Bridesmaid Dresses

Every bride wants to be surrounded by her closest and dearest friends on her wedding day - especially her bridesmaids. But best friends come in all types of shapes and sizes. It's rare for an entire bridal party to consist of rail-thin ladies with slight frames. Luckily, it's easy to find beautiful bridesmaid dresses that are designed for real women. If you're looking for show-stopping plus size bridesmaid dresses that will make your closest friends feel confident and comfortable on the big day, rest assured that your options are plentiful. Here are some easy tips and guidelines for figure flattering plus size bridesmaid dresses.

The Internet is a great place to start your search. Many online bridal shops offer a stunning range of dresses in all sizes, colors and styles. They will also be able to give you helpful tips on which styles suit particular figures and which styles you may want to avoid.

Since your bridal party will most likely be made up of women with a variety of shapes and figures, you may have to mix up bridesmaid dress styles, and choose a different cut for every bridesmaid. You can select uniform or coordinating colors to tie the bridesmaid looks together, but vary the cuts and styles of their individual dresses. While this may take some time, it will be well worth your effort. The more comfortable your bridesmaids feel, the more fun they'll have at your wedding.

There are a few tips that can help you choose stylish plus size bridesmaid looks. Start by talking with your bridesmaids and determining which parts of their figures they'd like to accentuate.

Fit is crucial for any dress. Every bridesmaid is different, but in general, dresses with high empire waists, or A-line cuts tend to be most flattering on curvy women. Look for cuts that emphasize the smallest part of the torso, just beneath the bust, and then gracefully flow away from the body to create a gorgeous silhouette. It's important for your bridesmaids to try on as many different styles as possible to find a comfortable, flattering dress.

The choice of fabric is important as well. Instead of clingy satin, look for soft, flowing fabric that drapes gracefully around your bridesmaids' curves. It's also a good idea to avoid dresses with too many layers, which can add volume. Steer clear from stiff or highly textured fabrics too. Unless your bridesmaids are very petite, these fabrics can add the illusion of bulk.

Color is of course another crucial consideration. By having some fun with colors, you can emphasize your bridesmaids' best features. A bold sash worn around the narrowest part of the torso, for example, can showcase a beautiful hourglass figure. While darker colors make every woman appear slimmer, don't be afraid to add bursts of color in the trim or throughout the skirt.

Dresses with intricate patterns should be chosen with care. Keep in mind that horizontal lines can potentially add width, while vertical patterns can be slimming. These patterns can apply to the structure of the dress too. For instance, using vertical panels of material in the same color can create a long, elegant shape. Even though this is a trick of the eye, it is a very successful one.

Sleeves are another important factor. Many bridesmaid dresses are completely sleeveless, or even strapless. If your bridesmaids would like a little upper arm coverage, look for shawls or scarves in flowing fabrics. This is another great opportunity to play with coordinating colors. The right shawl or scarf can add a touch of flirty femininity and romance to any bridesmaid dress.

Choosing the right neckline can make a big difference in your bridesmaid dresses too. V-necks draw the eye away from the midsection and are generally very flattering. High necklines, on the other hand, have the opposite effect and can make shoulders and chests look broad and bulky.

If your bridesmaids are comfortable wearing high heels, this is another great plus size option. Every woman appreciates some extra height when it comes to formalwear. The higher the heels, the longer and more elegant the silhouette. But don't go overboard - keep in mind that your bridesmaids will likely be on their feet all day, and will want to dance at your reception.

Finding beautiful plus size bridesmaid dresses takes some time and consideration, but if you know what to look for in terms of colors, cuts and fabrics, you'll have a great head start. Above all, remember that the goal is not to hide voluptuous curves, but rather to do them proper justice with the right cut and fit.

Lisa Parker is a freelance writer who writes about weddings and fashion, often focusing on specific items such as plus size wedding dresses.

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