Plus Size Clothing: The Ultimate Guide for Mothers of the Bride

Finding the perfect outfit for your child's wedding day is an exciting yet daunting task, especially for mothers of the bride who wear plus sizes. With the myriad of styles, fabrics, and body types to consider, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. To help you navigate this sartorial journey with confidence, this comprehensive guide offers practical tips, insider advice, and a curated selection of plus-size dresses that will empower you to shine on your daughter's special day.

Understanding Your Body Type

The first step towards finding the right plus size clothing is to understand your body type. This will help you identify styles that flatter your unique curves and enhance your overall appearance. According to a study published by the National Retail Federation, over 67% of American women wear plus sizes, with the most common body types being:

• Apple Shaped: Wider waistline, fuller bust, and narrower hips
• Pear Shaped: Narrower shoulders, wider hips, and fuller thighs
• Hourglass Shaped: Balanced with a defined waistline, curvy hips, and full breasts
• Rectangle Shaped: Straight lines with less definition in the waist and hips

Transition: Once you've determined your body type, it's time to explore the wide range of plus size clothing options available.

Choosing the Right Fabric

The fabric of your dress plays a crucial role in its overall look and feel. For mothers of the bride, fabrics that drape elegantly and create a flattering silhouette are recommended. Some popular choices include:

• Chiffon: Lightweight, airy, and flowy, ideal for creating soft and romantic looks.
• Satin: Luxurious and elegant, adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
• Lace: Delicate and feminine, can be used as an overlay or embellishment to enhance the beauty of the dress.
• Velvet: Rich and luxurious, perfect for formal evening weddings.

Transition: With the right fabric chosen, it's time to focus on finding the perfect style.

Discover Flattering Styles

Not all plus size clothing is created equal. When selecting a dress, it's important to choose styles that accentuate your best features and minimize any areas you may be self-conscious about. Some flattering options for mothers of the bride include:

• A-Line Dresses: Flattering for all body types, these dresses gently flare out from the shoulders, creating a balanced and elegant silhouette.
• Empire Waist Dresses: Feature a high waistline just below the bust, which elongates the body and conceals a fuller midsection.
• Wrap Dresses: Versatile and universally flattering, these dresses can be adjusted to fit different body shapes and emphasize the waistline.
• Fit-and-Flare Dresses: Fitted through the bodice and flaring out from the waist, these dresses create a feminine and flattering hourglass shape.

Transition: Finding the ideal color for your dress is equally important.

Choosing the Perfect Color

The color of your dress should complement your skin tone, hair color, and the overall wedding theme. For mothers of the bride, it's important to avoid wearing white or cream, as these colors are traditionally reserved for the bride. Some popular color options include:

• Navy Blue: A classic and timeless choice that suits most skin tones.
• Emerald Green: A rich and elegant color, perfect for formal evening weddings.
• Blush Pink: A feminine and romantic shade, suitable for both day and evening weddings.
• Gold: A luxurious and glamorous color, perfect for mothers of the bride who want to make a statement.

Transition: In addition to the dress itself, there are other important elements to consider to complete your look.

Accessories and Shoes

Accessories and shoes can elevate your outfit and add a touch of personal style. For mothers of the bride, it's best to keep accessories simple and elegant. A statement necklace, delicate earrings, and a matching bracelet can complete your look without overpowering the dress. When choosing shoes, opt for comfortable heels that will allow you to dance and celebrate all night.

Hairstyle and Makeup

Your hairstyle and makeup should complement your dress and overall look. For hairstyles, consider an elegant updo or soft curls that frame your face. When it comes to makeup, focus on enhancing your natural features and creating a polished and sophisticated look.

Transition: To ensure a perfect fit and a comfortable experience on the wedding day, it's essential to follow these tips.

Tips for a Perfect Fit

• Get Measured Professionally: Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitting dress. Visit a tailor or seamstress to ensure that your dress is tailored to your specific body shape.
• Consider Customizing: If you're unable to find a dress that meets your exact needs, consider having one custom-made. This will allow for a perfect fit and the incorporation of personal touches.
• Bring Your Shapewear: Shapewear can smooth out any unwanted lines and create a more flattering silhouette. Be sure to bring your shapewear to your fittings so that the dress can be altered accordingly.

Transition: It's not just about finding the perfect outfit; it's also about embracing your curves and feeling confident on this special day.

Confidence is Key

Remember, confidence is the most important accessory of all. Embrace your body, celebrate your curves, and carry yourself with grace and poise. Your daughter will appreciate your radiance and love seeing you happy and confident.

Transition: To help you find the perfect plus-size mother of the bride dress, we've curated a selection of stunning styles that cater to different body types and preferences.

Curated Selection of Plus Size Dresses for Mothers of the Bride

A-Line Dresses

• Lace and Chiffon A-Line Dress: This elegant dress features delicate lace detailing on the bodice and a flowing chiffon skirt. The A-line silhouette flatters all body types.
• Embroidered A-Line Dress: This sophisticated dress showcases intricate embroidery on the bodice and a soft, flowing skirt. The A-line shape creates a flattering and balanced silhouette.

Empire Waist Dresses

• Beaded Empire Waist Dress: This stunning dress features a beaded bodice with a high empire waistline. The flowing skirt conceals a fuller midsection and creates an elongated silhouette.
• Chiffon Empire Waist Dress: This airy and romantic dress is made from lightweight chiffon and features an empire waistline that accentuates the waist and flows gracefully.

Wrap Dresses

• Floral Print Wrap Dress: This feminine and versatile dress features a beautiful floral print and a flattering wrap design. The wrap style can be adjusted to fit different body shapes and emphasize the waistline.
• Satin Wrap Dress: This luxurious dress is made from shimmering satin and features a wrap design that creates a flattering and elegant silhouette. The V-neckline adds a touch of sophistication.

Fit-and-Flare Dresses

• Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress: This exquisite dress combines a fitted lace bodice with a flowing flare skirt. The fit-and-flare design accentuates the waist and creates a feminine and alluring silhouette.
• Chiffon Fit-and-Flare Dress: This ethereal and romantic dress features a soft chiffon bodice and a full, flowing flare skirt. The fit-and-flare shape enhances the curves and creates a stunning hourglass silhouette.

Transition: To make your shopping experience easier, several online retailers specialize in plus size clothing for mothers of the bride.

Where to Find Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses

• David's Bridal: Offers a wide selection of plus size mother of the bride dresses in various styles, colors, and fabrics.
• Nordstrom: Carries a curated collection of plus size mother of the bride dresses from renowned designers.
• Azazie: Specializes in customizable plus size mother of the bride dresses, allowing for a perfect fit and personal touches.

Transition: In addition to the suggestions provided, let's explore some additional strategies for finding the perfect plus size dress.

Effective Strategies for Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dress Shopping

• Start Early: Give yourself ample time to find the perfect dress. Start shopping 6-9 months before the wedding to avoid last-minute stress.
• Shop Offline and Online: Combine the best of both worlds by visiting boutiques and showrooms to try on dresses in person and browsing online retailers for a wider selection.
• Bring a Trusted Companion: Ask a friend or family member who understands your body type and style to accompany you on your shopping trips for support and honest feedback.
• Be Open to Alterations: Most dresses require some degree of alteration to achieve a perfect fit. Be prepared to invest in alterations to ensure that your dress fits flawlessly.

Transition: While plus-size shopping can be challenging, there are also many advantages to embracing your curves.

Advantages of Plus Size Clothing for Mothers of the Bride

• Variety of Styles: Plus size clothing offers a wide range of styles and designs, ensuring that you can find a dress that reflects your personality and flatters your figure.
• Comfort and Confidence: Plus size clothing is designed with comfort in mind, allowing you to move freely and feel confident throughout the wedding day.
• Body Positivity: Choosing plus size clothing can be an empowering act that celebrates your curves and promotes body acceptance.

Transition: To further enhance your shopping experience, consider these tips and tricks.

Tips and Tricks for Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dress Shopping

• Focus on Fit: Prioritize finding a dress that fits well and accentuates your best features. Don't be discouraged if you don't find the perfect dress immediately; keep trying different styles and sizes.