For the curvy bride seeking an ethereal and flattering look, off shoulder plus size wedding dresses offer a stunning canvas to showcase her figure. These gowns elegantly drape over the shoulders, accentuating the neckline and creating a romantic, feminine silhouette. The variety of styles available ensures that every bride can find the perfect dress to complement her unique shape and style.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, off shoulder plus size wedding dresses also provide several practical benefits. The off shoulder design eliminates the need for a bra, enhancing comfort and freedom of movement. Furthermore, the generous coverage of the shoulders and upper arms provides a slimming effect, creating a visually balanced look that flatters the bride's curves.
Off Shoulder Plus Size Wedding Dresses
When choosing an off shoulder plus size wedding dress, there are several key points to consider:
- Fabric: Choose fabrics that drape well and flatter your curves, such as chiffon, lace, or satin.
- Neckline: Opt for a neckline that complements your bust and shoulder shape, such as a sweetheart, V-neck, or illusion neckline.
- Sleeve length: Off shoulder dresses can have various sleeve lengths, from cap sleeves to full-length sleeves. Consider your personal style and the formality of the wedding.
- Bodice: Look for a bodice that provides adequate support and coverage, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
- Skirt: The skirt can range from A-line to ballgown, depending on your desired silhouette and level of drama.
- Embellishments: Consider adding embellishments such as beading, lace appliqués, or embroidery to enhance the look of the dress.
- Accessories: Pair your dress with accessories that complement your style, such as a veil, jewelry, and shoes.
- Undergarments: Choose shapewear and a bra that provide support and a smooth silhouette under the dress.
- Alterations: Ensure the dress fits perfectly by scheduling alterations with a professional seamstress.
By considering these points, you can find the perfect off shoulder plus size wedding dress that accentuates your curves and makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Fabric: Choose fabrics that drape well and flatter your curves, such as chiffon, lace, or satin.
The fabric of your off shoulder plus size wedding dress plays a crucial role in its overall look and feel. Choose fabrics that drape beautifully and complement your curves, creating a flattering silhouette that enhances your natural assets.
- Chiffon: Known for its ethereal and flowy nature, chiffon is a popular choice for off shoulder wedding dresses. It drapes softly, creating a romantic and feminine look that flatters all body types.
- Lace: Intricate and elegant, lace adds a touch of sophistication to any wedding dress. Choose a lace fabric that complements the style of your dress and provides the desired level of coverage.
- Satin: Luxurious and timeless, satin is a great choice for brides seeking a more formal and structured look. It drapes smoothly, creating a flattering and slimming effect.
- Other options: Beyond chiffon, lace, and satin, there are many other fabrics suitable for off shoulder plus size wedding dresses. Consider fabrics such as organza, tulle, and mikado, each with its unique texture and drape.
When selecting the fabric for your dress, consider the formality of the wedding, your personal style, and the desired level of coverage and support. By choosing a fabric that complements your body type and preferences, you can create an off shoulder plus size wedding dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Neckline: Opt for a neckline that complements your bust and shoulder shape, such as a sweetheart, V-neck, or illusion neckline.
The neckline of your off shoulder plus size wedding dress plays a significant role in framing your face and accentuating your best features. Consider your bust size, shoulder shape, and personal style when selecting the most flattering neckline for your dress.
- Sweetheart neckline: This classic neckline dips gently in the center, creating a flattering and feminine look. It is particularly suitable for brides with a larger bust, as it helps to balance the shoulders and create a more proportionate silhouette.
- V-neckline: A V-neckline elongates the neck and draws the eye downward, creating a slimming effect. It is a versatile neckline that suits a variety of body types and can be adjusted to provide more or less coverage.
- Illusion neckline: An illusion neckline combines sheer fabric with opaque fabric to create the illusion of a plunging neckline while providing more coverage. This neckline is a great option for brides who want a dramatic look with added support.
- Other options: Beyond sweetheart, V-neck, and illusion necklines, there are many other necklines suitable for off shoulder plus size wedding dresses. Consider necklines such as the off the shoulder neckline, the bateau neckline, and the square neckline, each with its unique style and coverage.
When choosing the neckline for your dress, consider the overall style of the dress, the formality of the wedding, and your personal preferences. By selecting a neckline that complements your body type and highlights your best features, you can create an off shoulder plus size wedding dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Sleeve length: Off shoulder dresses can have various sleeve lengths, from cap sleeves to full-length sleeves. Consider your personal style and the formality of the wedding.
The sleeve length of your off shoulder plus size wedding dress is an important consideration that can affect the overall look and feel of the dress. Choose a sleeve length that complements your personal style and the formality of the wedding.
- Cap sleeves: Cap sleeves are short, fitted sleeves that cover the shoulders and upper arms. They are a versatile sleeve length that can be paired with a variety of neckline styles. Cap sleeves are a good choice for brides who want to show off their arms while still maintaining a modest and elegant look.
- Short sleeves: Short sleeves extend beyond the shoulders and cover part of the upper arm. They are a good option for brides who want more coverage than cap sleeves but still want to show off their arms. Short sleeves can be tailored to various lengths, allowing you to customize the coverage to your liking.
- Three-quarter sleeves: Three-quarter sleeves extend to the mid-forearm, providing more coverage than short sleeves. They are a good choice for brides who want to cover their upper arms and elbows. Three-quarter sleeves can be fitted or loose, depending on your personal preference.
- Full-length sleeves: Full-length sleeves extend to the wrists, providing the most coverage. They are a good choice for brides who want to cover their arms completely or who are getting married in a colder climate. Full-length sleeves can be tailored to various shapes, such as bishop sleeves, fitted sleeves, or bell sleeves.
When choosing the sleeve length for your dress, consider the overall style of the dress, the formality of the wedding, and your personal preferences. By selecting a sleeve length that complements your body type and highlights your best features, you can create an off shoulder plus size wedding dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Bodice: Look for a bodice that provides adequate support and coverage, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
The bodice of your off shoulder plus size wedding dress provides the foundation and support for the entire dress. Choose a bodice that is well-structured and provides adequate coverage to ensure a comfortable and secure fit throughout your wedding day.
- Built-in bra: Many off shoulder plus size wedding dresses feature a built-in bra, eliminating the need for a separate bra and providing additional support. This can be especially beneficial for brides with a larger bust who want to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- Boning: Boning is a type of support structure that is often used in the bodice of wedding dresses to provide shape and support. It helps to hold the dress in place and prevent it from sagging or becoming loose. Look for a bodice with boning in the seams or along the neckline to ensure a structured and flattering fit.
- Lining: The bodice of your dress should be lined with a soft and comfortable fabric to prevent irritation and provide additional coverage. A lining also helps to create a smooth and polished look.
- Closure: The bodice of your dress can be closed in a variety of ways, such as with a zipper, buttons, or laces. Choose a closure that is easy to use and provides a secure fit. You may also want to consider the placement of the closure for ease of dressing and comfort.
By choosing a bodice that provides adequate support and coverage, you can ensure a comfortable and confident fit on your wedding day. This will allow you to move freely and enjoy your special day without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions or discomfort.
Skirt: The skirt can range from A-line to ballgown, depending on your desired silhouette and level of drama.
The skirt of your off shoulder plus size wedding dress plays a significant role in creating your desired silhouette and overall look. Consider your body type, personal style, and the formality of the wedding when choosing the right skirt for your dress.
A-line skirt: An A-line skirt is a classic and flattering choice for plus size brides. It is fitted at the waist and gradually widens towards the hem, creating an A-shape. This skirt style is universally flattering and helps to balance out the hips and thighs. It is also a good choice for brides who want to move and dance freely at their wedding reception.
Ballgown skirt: A ballgown skirt is a more dramatic and glamorous choice. It is fitted at the waist and flares out dramatically from the hips, creating a full and voluminous silhouette. Ballgown skirts are perfect for brides who want to make a grand entrance on their wedding day. However, they can be more restrictive and difficult to move in, so consider the practicality of this skirt style before making your decision.
Other skirt styles: Beyond A-line and ballgown skirts, there are many other skirt styles available for off shoulder plus size wedding dresses. Consider skirts such as the mermaid skirt, the trumpet skirt, and the sheath skirt, each with its unique shape and level of fullness. You can also opt for a skirt with a train to add a touch of drama and elegance to your look.
When choosing the skirt for your off shoulder plus size wedding dress, consider your personal style and the overall look you want to achieve. By selecting a skirt that complements your body type and highlights your best features, you can create a stunning and unforgettable wedding dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Embellishments: Consider adding embellishments such as beading, lace appliqués, or embroidery to enhance the look of the dress.
Embellishments can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your off shoulder plus size wedding dress. Choose embellishments that complement the style of your dress and your personal taste.
- Beading: Beading is a classic and timeless embellishment that can add a touch of sparkle and elegance to your dress.Beads can be sewn onto the fabric in various patterns and designs, creating a customized and unique look.
- Lace appliqués: Lace appliqués are pieces of lace that are sewn onto the fabric of the dress. They can be used to create a variety of looks, from delicate and romantic to bold and dramatic. Lace appliqués can be found in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect match for your dress.
- Embroidery: Embroidery is a technique that uses thread to create designs on fabric. Embroidery can be used to add intricate details and patterns to your dress, creating a truly unique and personalized look. Embroidery can be done in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect match for your dress.
- Other embellishments: Beyond beading, lace appliqués, and embroidery, there are many other embellishments that you can add to your dress. Consider embellishments such as sequins, pearls, crystals, or ribbons to create a look that is truly your own.
When choosing embellishments for your dress, consider the overall style of the dress, the formality of the wedding, and your personal preferences. By selecting embellishments that complement your dress and highlight your best features, you can create a stunning and unforgettable wedding dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Accessories: Pair your dress with accessories that complement your style, such as a veil, jewelry, and shoes.
Accessories can help to complete your off shoulder plus size wedding dress and create a cohesive and polished look. Choose accessories that complement your personal style and the overall formality of the wedding.
- Veil: A veil can add a touch of elegance and drama to your wedding dress. Choose a veil that complements the style of your dress and your personal preferences. Veils come in a variety of lengths, from short and simple to long and flowing, so you can find the perfect match for your look.
- Jewelry: Jewelry can add a touch of sparkle and glamour to your wedding dress. Choose jewelry that complements the neckline of your dress and your personal style. Consider a necklace, earrings, and bracelet that work together to create a cohesive look.
- Shoes: Your wedding shoes should be comfortable and supportive, as you will be on your feet for most of the day. Choose shoes that complement the style of your dress and your personal preferences. Consider shoes with a heel height that you are comfortable walking in, as you will be doing a lot of walking and dancing on your wedding day.
- Other accessories: In addition to a veil, jewelry, and shoes, there are many other accessories that you can add to your look, such as a hairpiece, a clutch bag, or a garter. Choose accessories that complement your personal style and the overall formality of the wedding.
By carefully selecting accessories that complement your off shoulder plus size wedding dress and your personal style, you can create a stunning and unforgettable look that will make you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Undergarments: Choose shapewear and a bra that provide support and a smooth silhouette under the dress.
The right undergarments can make a big difference in the way your off shoulder plus size wedding dress fits and looks. Choose shapewear and a bra that provide support and a smooth silhouette under the dress.
- Shapewear: Shapewear can help to smooth out your figure and create a more streamlined silhouette under your dress. Choose shapewear that is comfortable and provides the level of support you need. Consider shapewear that targets specific areas, such as the waist, thighs, or buttocks.
- Bra: A supportive and well-fitting bra is essential for any wedding dress, especially an off shoulder dress. Choose a bra that provides adequate support and coverage, and that is comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Consider a bra with convertible straps, so that you can adjust the straps to create a custom fit.
- Other undergarments: In addition to shapewear and a bra, you may also want to wear other undergarments, such as a slip or a petticoat. A slip can help to smooth out the fabric of your dress and prevent it from clinging to your body. A petticoat can help to add volume to your skirt and create a more dramatic silhouette.
- Consider your body type: When choosing undergarments, consider your body type and the style of your dress. If you have a curvy figure, you may want to choose shapewear that provides more support and coverage. If you have a more petite figure, you may be able to get away with wearing less shapewear.
By carefully selecting undergarments that provide support and a smooth silhouette, you can ensure that your off shoulder plus size wedding dress fits and looks its best on your special day.
Alterations: Ensure the dress fits perfectly by scheduling alterations with a professional seamstress.
Once you have chosen your off shoulder plus size wedding dress, it is important to schedule alterations with a professional seamstress to ensure that the dress fits perfectly. Alterations can be made to adjust the length of the dress, the fit of the bodice, and the overall silhouette.
- Length: The length of your dress should be adjusted so that the hem falls at the desired length. You may want to wear your wedding shoes to your alteration appointment so that the seamstress can adjust the length accordingly.
- Bodice: The bodice of your dress should be altered to fit your body snugly and comfortably. The seamstress can take in or let out the bodice to create the perfect fit. You may also want to have the seamstress add boning or cups to the bodice for additional support.
- Silhouette: The overall silhouette of your dress can be altered to create the desired look. For example, you may want to have the seamstress add a bustle to the back of your dress to create a more dramatic look. You may also want to have the seamstress adjust the neckline or sleeves to create a more flattering fit.
- Other alterations: In addition to the above, you may also want to have other alterations made to your dress, such as adding a belt, changing the buttons, or adding a lace overlay. Be sure to discuss all of your alteration needs with your seamstress.
By scheduling alterations with a professional seamstress, you can ensure that your off shoulder plus size wedding dress fits perfectly and looks its best on your special day.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about off shoulder plus size wedding dresses:
Question 1: What are the benefits of wearing an off shoulder plus size wedding dress?
Answer 1: Off shoulder plus size wedding dresses offer several benefits, including:
- They can help to create a more flattering silhouette by visually slimming the upper body and balancing out the hips and thighs.
- They are comfortable and easy to wear, as they do not restrict movement or cause discomfort.
- They are available in a variety of styles and fabrics, so you can find the perfect dress to match your personal style and preferences.
Question 2: What are some tips for choosing an off shoulder plus size wedding dress?
Answer 2: When choosing an off shoulder plus size wedding dress, consider the following tips:
- Choose a fabric that drapes well and flatters your curves, such as chiffon, lace, or satin.
- Opt for a neckline that complements your bust and shoulder shape, such as a sweetheart, V-neck, or illusion neckline.
- Consider your personal style and the formality of the wedding when choosing the sleeve length and skirt style.
- Look for a bodice that provides adequate support and coverage, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.
Question 3: How can I accessorize an off shoulder plus size wedding dress?
Answer 3: You can accessorize an off shoulder plus size wedding dress in a variety of ways to create a cohesive and polished look. Consider adding a veil, jewelry, and shoes that complement your personal style and the overall formality of the wedding.
Question 4: What are some tips for altering an off shoulder plus size wedding dress?
Answer 4: When altering an off shoulder plus size wedding dress, it is important to work with a professional seamstress to ensure a perfect fit. The seamstress can adjust the length of the dress, the fit of the bodice, and the overall silhouette to create the desired look.
Question 5: How can I care for an off shoulder plus size wedding dress?
Answer 5: To care for an off shoulder plus size wedding dress, follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally, it is best to dry clean the dress and store it in a cool, dry place.
Question 6: Where can I find plus size wedding dresses?
Answer 6: You can find plus size wedding dresses at a variety of bridal salons and online retailers. Be sure to call ahead or check the website to ensure that the store carries plus size dresses.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about off shoulder plus size wedding dresses. If you have any other questions, be sure to consult with a professional bridal consultant or seamstress.
In addition to the information provided in this FAQ, here are a few additional tips to help you find the perfect off shoulder plus size wedding dress:
Tips
Here are a few additional tips to help you find the perfect off shoulder plus size wedding dress:
Tip 1: Bring a supportive friend or family member to your dress shopping appointments. They can provide honest feedback and help you to stay within your budget.
Tip 2: Don't be afraid to try on different styles and silhouettes. You may be surprised at what looks good on you. Be open to trying on different necklines, sleeve lengths, and skirt styles to find the dress that makes you feel the most confident and beautiful.
Tip 3: Pay attention to the details. Consider the fabric, the lace, the beading, and the overall construction of the dress. Choose a dress that is well-made and that you love every detail of.
Tip 4: Accessorize your dress to create a complete look. Add a veil, jewelry, and shoes that complement your personal style and the overall formality of the wedding.
By following these tips, you can find the perfect off shoulder plus size wedding dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day.
Now that you have all the information you need to choose the perfect off shoulder plus size wedding dress, it's time to start shopping! Be sure to take your time and try on as many dresses as possible to find the one that is perfect for you.
Conclusion
Off shoulder plus size wedding dresses are a beautiful and flattering choice for curvy brides. They offer a variety of benefits, including a slimming silhouette, comfortable fit, and availability in a wide range of styles and fabrics. When choosing an off shoulder plus size wedding dress, consider your personal style, the formality of the wedding, and your body type. Be sure to try on different styles and silhouettes to find the dress that makes you feel the most confident and beautiful.
By following the tips in this article, you can find the perfect off shoulder plus size wedding dress that will make you look and feel like a princess on your special day. Remember, the most important thing is to choose a dress that you love and that makes you feel confident and radiant.