It is a fact that a large proportion of society is plus sized. So if you fit into this category, what are your choices when it comes to your wedding dress?

The bridal magazines are always full of beautiful slim models wearing the latest designer couture gowns & many magazines rarely have features on gowns for larger brides. But thankfully, the tide is turning & bridal manufacturers are realizing that there is a growing need for plus sized wedding dresses.

In the past plus sized dress where simply hideous affairs, but these days many of the designs found in bridal stores will run into plus sizes & some designers are also producing their own range of exclusively plus sized wedding dresses.

So when you start looking for your wedding dress it is important to bear a few things in mind first.

Body Type

Everyone has a different body shape, it doesn’t matter whether you are slim, average or larger. Take a look at yourself & try to assess your body shape. Are you quite ‘voluptuous’ or cone shaped? Maybe you are a classic pear, being heavier on the bottom than the top or an apple being even in shape top & bottom.

If you are not sure then the sales assistant in the bridal store will be able to guide you & show you dresses that will suit you as there are certain styles that will suit certain figures.

If you are able to identify your body shape then you can make your trip to the bridal store that bit easier by researching the types of wedding dress that will suit you. Take a look at online wedding stores for some ideas.

Height

This is in relation to your body height. If you are petite then you should avoid very long gowns or ask the assistant about petite styles. Remember that you should be the one carrying the dress not the other way around.

Simplicity

Over embellishment on wedding dresses is a cardinal sin for plus sized women. It just doesn’t work & can draw unwanted attention to the areas you’d rather people weren’t looking at. In some cases a plethora of ribbons, ruffles & bows can actually make you look bigger! So keep it simple & opt for dresses with little or non embellishment.

Try to choose dresses that will emphasize your best assets whilst drawing attention away from those you don’t like too much!

Comfort

This is important for any bride. You will be wearing your wedding dress for a long time so you have to be comfortable in it. Tight fitting bodices can cause all sorts of problems, especially when you sit down to eat at the reception. So it is important to look for a dress that will let you eat, breath, dance & walk!

Every bride deserves a happy wedding day - no matter what size they are. Thankfully the bridal industry has responded to the needs of plus sized brides with some fabulous designs & increased availability. It is now easier than ever for larger brides to look wonderful on their wedding day.