Where to Find: Plus Size Wedding Dresses
Lots of brides ask us about where to find plus size wedding dresses. When most bridal boutiques only stock sample sizes up to a 12 or 14, the idea of shopping for a plus size wedding dress can be extremely daunting. Pair that with the fact that historically, plus size wedding dresses weren't as stylish, sexy or modern as 'straight sized' gowns, it all takes the shine off what should be a fun and exciting experience. Thankfully times have changed, there are more boutiques offering plus size wedding dress collections and more inclusive samples than ever before, and the dresses themselves are finally reflecting contemporary bridal trends. So to help you find a gown that makes you look, and feel, gorgeous, we've put together tips for finding a plus size wedding dress, a list of plus size bridal designers, and plus size bridal boutiques in Ireland.
Dress by Maggie Sottero
Tips for Shopping for a Plus Size Wedding Dress
We're using words like 'straight size' and 'plus size' throughout this guide - they're terms we hate having to use BTW (there shouldn't have to be different rules for different bodies, right?), but it's the easiest way to clarify what we're talking about!
- While there are some fashion forward plus size bridal brands, alas many 'curve brands' still offer only dated, or overly fussy styles for plus size brides. Don't be put off, there are sexy/boho/vintage/glamorous dresses out there for every bride, you might just have to do a little more research. Hopefully this guide will help!
- There are lots of great dedicated plus size bridal boutiques (get the details on some of our fave Irish ones below!), which are a fantastic place to start your search. Shopping in a plus size boutique gives you a better selection of samples you can definitely try on, their teams are also experienced in working with brides of all shapes and sizes, so if you're nervous, it'll likely make for a more relaxing shopping experience.
- Of course, any bride is also entitled to check out any boutique she wants, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Unless they have dedicated plus size collections, most boutiques have just one sample for each dress. Unlike mainstream fashion, it's not a size 4, a bridal sample is generally a 12 or 14. Whether you're a size 8 or a size 28, it's not ideal (unless you happen to fit the sample size!), but due to the cost of samples, many boutiques are restricted in their stock. Boutiques do however have all sorts of magic contraptions and clips to pull and tuck you into a sample gown to give you a vision for what your dress will look like.
Dress by Studio Levana
- As most designers make their dresses to order, many 'straight size' dresses can actually be ordered in almost any size - obviously it's preferential that you try the dress on first, which you may not be able to - but it is something to keep in mind if you have your heart set on a particular dress.
- If you do know the dress you want to try on, call ahead, and the boutique will let you know what size their sample is, and they'll have a good idea if trying it on will work for you. Strapless dresses for example, might be easier to try on in broader range of sizes than a sample dress with say, fitted sleeves.
- Likewise, if there's a particular boutique you want to visit, ring ahead and have a chat first to make sure you're comfortable ahead of your appointment.
Dress by True Bride
- Listen to your boutique's advice, bridal advisors really know their stuff, be open-minded about the gowns they suggest, or listen if they discourage you from trying on a sample that they know is too small (read: they’ve seen it before!). Also on the flip side, let them know if you’re not comfortable coming out of the dressing room in a certain gown or trying on a particular dress they’ve suggested.
- Alterations are your best friend - remember unlike a dress you pick up on the high street, your wedding dress will be made and tailored for your body, and will show it off in all its glory! Your seamstress/seamster will ensure your dress fits perfectly on your wedding day.
- Many made-to-order dresses can often be adapted to your requirements, so if you love the dress, but would prefer it with longer sleeves, less back showing, or a modesty panel on the cleavage, let your boutique know and they can suggest possible changes within the designer's remit.
Dress by Wtoo
- Choose your shopping buddies wisely, its not always a good idea to bring your entire bridal party to your fittings. Bring your closest pals, a sister or your mum, (or go it alone if that's your bag!) just make sure, whoever you bring, they're the kind of people who boost your confidence, and who you're comfortable around.
- Stay true to your personal style. Being plus size doesn't mean you have to settle on a dress you don't love, or compromise your style just to find something that fits. Be firm if anyone suggests you opt for something that doesn't feel like 'you'.
- Remember you can always opt for custom made. If you have something particular in mind that you just aren't finding, why not get your wedding dress made to measure for you?
- Likewise, if you love a particular designer, and have access to their studio or flagship store (these are often in cities like New York, London, etc), you may be able to try a broader selection of samples, or have one of their designs adapted for you.
Dress by Chosen by One Day
- Don't tolerate rudeness or body shaming. Unfortunately, we have heard stories of brides being made feel uncomfortable in their shopping experience. Most staff in bridal boutiques are amazing, and will go above and beyond to help you find your dress, but if you do encounter someone who suggests you lose weight for your wedding, or who makes you feel like you're not as entitled as anyone else to feel gorgeous on your big day, don't accept it - and walk out if you need to!
- If you don't feel represented, shout about it! Body diversity might be a trendy topic right now, and thankfully many brands are listening to customers' requests for broader size ranges and more inclusive imagery. But if you don't see size inclusivity in your favourite bridal designers, get in touch with the brand and let them know!
Dedicated Plus Size Wedding Dress Collections
Dress by Allure Bridals
Allure Bridals
Allure Bridals have been making plus size wedding dresses since long before size inclusivity became 'cool'. Their vast collection features ornate beading, floral appliqués, dramatic backs and beautiful silhouettes.
Dress by Willowby
Watters, Wtoo & Willowby
Watters, and its offshoot brands Wtoo and Willowby offer their full selection of wedding dresses in US sizes 00–32W, with tall and petite options too in a mixture of classic and more contemporary styles. These brands are stocked in lots of boutiques around Ireland and internationally.
Dress by White One
White One
An extension of the renowned Pronovias wedding dress group, White One Plus wedding dresses stand out for their beautiful fits and high quality materials. Think elegant ballgowns and pretty lace details. White One is stocked in lots of UK and Irish boutiques, including Smart Brides and Curvy Chic.
Dress by True Bride
True Bride
True Bride Curve Collection features a broad selection of gowns, with a glamorous feel in UK sizes 18-36. True Curves is stocked in lots of boutiques throughout the UK and in Ireland, including Belladonna Bridal in Galway.
Dress by Karen Willis Holmes Curve
Karen Willis Holmes
Karen Willis Holmes Curve wedding dresses are available in sizes AUS 14-24. Gowns designed to accentuate rather than hide your figure, they're modern, sexy and super stylish.
Dress by Emanuel Hendrik
Emanuel Hendrik
Emanuel Hendrik is a German bridal designer who has become renowned for his mix and match design technique. He has now adapted his range into a curve collection of bridal separates up to an EU size 50, which can be paired together to create your own dream look.
Dress by Studio Levana
Studio Levana
Designed to make you feel like a total babe, Studio Levana's plus size bridal collection is filled with everything from playful gowns, with plunging necklines, to dreamy boho dresses with off-the-shoulder lacework.
Dress by Chosen by One Day
Chosen by One Day
The Chosen by One Day curve collection features a line-up of stunning, sophisticated, statement wedding dresses for a plus size bride with a killer sense of style.
Dress by Maggie Sottero
Maggie Sottero
Maggie Sottero and offshoots, Sottero & Midgley and Rebecca Ingram all have stunning curve collection lookbooks, crammed with heart-stoppingly gorgeous dresses.
Dress by Therese und Luise
Therese und Luise
If your style is more cool, minimal and modern, you'll love Therese und Luise's curve collection with its simple, Scandi-style separates.
Dress by Essense of Australia
Essense of Australia
Filled with romantic embellishments and classic silhouettes, Essense of Australia is a chic option for brides looking for an elegant, plus size wedding dress. They are stocked in lots of boutiques internationally, including Pearls and Lace in Ireland.
Dress by Alexandra Grecco
Alexandra Grecco
All Alexandra Grecco wedding dresses run in US sizes 00-20, with some gowns available to order in split sizing (eg. 16 bust and waist and a 20 hip). A New York-based bridal studio, the designer's signature style is contemporary, romantic, and luxurious.
Dress by Lace and Liberty x APW
Lace & Liberty
Better known for their bridal separates, Lace and Liberty have teamed up with A Practical Wedding to create a small collection of cool plus size wedding dresses, available to buy online. Look out for the incredible cape!
Dress by Morilee
Morilee Julietta Collection
The Julietta Collection by Morilee is filled to the brim with gorgeous plus size wedding dresses with dreamy detailing and romantic silhouettes.
Dress by Eloquii by Stone Fox Bride
Eloquii by Stone Fox Bride
Cool, plus size brand Eloquii teamed up with Stone Fox Bride to create an alternative, eclectic collection of plus size wedding dresses.
Rembo Styling Embrace Collection
New for 2020, Rembo Styling have created the Embrace Collection, featuring gorgeous boho gowns with dainty laces and clever dress details for added comfort.
Dress by Hayley Paige
Blush by Hayley Paige
Hayley Paige has long been our go-to for ultra-feminine, playful wedding dresses, and the fact that she's created a selection of size-inclusive styles is music to our ears.
Dress from Daisy Curve
Daisy Curve
New Zealand bridal brand Daisy by Katie Yeung have launched their Curve offshoot with a gorgeous selection of gowns that are chic, modern and range from pretty and playful to ultra sexy.
Dress by Theia Couture
Theia Couture
Since launching their first curve collaboration a few years ago, Theia have been featuring a more diverse selection of models on their catwalks. Headed up by Irish designer, Don O'Neill, they're definitely a collection to look to for a broader selection of sizes without skipping out on style.
Dress by Grace Loves Lace | Their dresses are available up to an XXL, that's an AUS/UK size 18
Plus Size Bridal Boutiques in Ireland
Curvy Chic, Belfast
With top designers like Studio Levana and Pronovias White One, and a selection of dresses in sizes 14-44, the highly-trained team at Curvy Chic will ensure you don't have to choose between fashion and fit. Visit curvychicbridal.com
Belladonna Bridal, Galway City
The team at Belladonna are dedicated to making wedding dress shopping an enjoyable experience. The boutique stocks a carefully curated collection of dresses in sizes 18-32. Visit belladonnagalway.com
Smart Brides, Portlaoise
Offering both off-the-rack and made-to-order wedding dresses, Smart Brides stocks an extensive plus size selection with options for everyone from sizes 2-32. Visit smartbrides.ie
Pearls and Lace, Donegal
Looking for a plus size wedding dress in the North West of Ireland? Pearls and Lace is great place to start your search, with brands like Essense of Australia and Watters. Visit pearlsandlace.ie
Photo by Milward Craft Supplies
Custom Wedding Dress Designers in Ireland
Sarah Foy Couture, Dublin
Brides can choose gowns from Sarah Foy Couture's own beautiful collection, or work with the designer to create their very own dream dress. Visit sarahfoycouture.com
A Final Pep Talk
When we featured Rebecca, the gorgeous owner of Curvy Chic Bridal as a real bride (pictured above, check out her fab Belfast wedding here!), she shared a message for other brides that we couldn't conclude this guide without relaying!
“As a plus size bride, I would like to assure my fellow plus size brides to be, you will feel beautiful, I know it can be scary and we often dodge photos where we can, but I love my pictures, even though you can see my double chin and bingo wings, I adore the joy and love you can feel from our pictures, I promise you, your partner adores you just how you are, and there are amazing, modern and beautiful dresses out there in sample sizes that will fit and suit you, (like Curvy Chic Bridal!). Don’t let being plus size stop you from loving every minute of planning your day.”
Here, here!
Get more tips for wedding dress shopping and finding plus size bridesmaid dresses
Listen to our chat with Louise McSharry about why you don't have to lose weight for your wedding
Feature image: Karen Willis Holmes
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