Finding the perfect occasion dress when you have curves can be an exciting yet challenging task. Very Curve offers a range of occasion dresses designed specifically for plus-size women, ensuring that you look and feel your best at any event. Whether it’s a glamorous wedding, a sophisticated cocktail party, or a formal work function, Very Curve has options that blend style, comfort, and a flattering fit. In this article, we’ll explore all aspects of Very Curve occasion dresses, from understanding sizing to different styles, fabric choices, and where to purchase them.
Understanding Sizing in Very Curve Occasion Dresses
The Sizing Approach of Very Curve
Very Curve recognizes that plus-size women come in diverse body shapes and sizes. Their sizing typically starts from around size 14 and goes up, catering to a wide range of customers. Each size in their occasion dress collection is carefully calibrated with specific bust, waist, and hip measurements. For instance, a size 16 in Very Curve’s range might have a bust measurement that provides enough room for a comfortable fit without being too loose, a waist measurement that either defines the natural waist or an empire-style waist depending on the dress design, and a hip measurement that follows the body’s curves, allowing for ease of movement.
How to Measure Yourself Accurately
To ensure you get the right-fitting Very Curve occasion dress, accurate measurements are essential. You’ll need a soft measuring tape. First, measure around the fullest part of your bust. Make sure the tape is level all the way around your body and not too tight or too loose. Write down this measurement. Next, find the narrowest part of your waist, usually just above the belly button, and measure it. Finally, measure around the widest part of your hips. When comparing your measurements to the Very Curve sizing chart, be honest with yourself. If you’re between two sizes, it’s often better to choose the larger size. Very Curve occasion dresses can usually be taken in by a tailor if they’re a bit too big, but it’s much more difficult to let out a dress that’s too small, especially if it has intricate details or is made of a non-stretchy fabric.
Accommodating Different Body Shapes
Plus-size women have various body shapes, and Very Curve designs their occasion dresses to flatter each one. For apple-shaped bodies, which carry more weight around the midsection, dresses with empire waists are a great option. The empire waist, set just below the bust, creates a flowing line that draws attention away from the stomach area. Pear-shaped bodies, with wider hips than shoulders, can look for dresses with a fitted top and a flared skirt. This style balances the proportions by emphasizing the smaller upper body and adding volume to the lower body. Hourglass-shaped women can find dresses that accentuate their curves, such as bodycon-style dresses (available in appropriate plus-size options). Rectangle-shaped bodies can benefit from dresses with ruching or gathering around the waist to create the illusion of curves.
Styles of Very Curve Occasion Dresses
Cocktail Dresses
Fitted Bodice with Flowing Skirt: Many Very Curve cocktail dresses feature a fitted bodice that hugs the upper body, highlighting your curves in a flattering way. The bodice can be made of materials like stretchy jersey or structured satin. It often has details such as beading, sequins, or lace. For example, a beaded bodice can add a touch of glamour, with the beads arranged in intricate patterns like floral designs or geometric shapes. The skirt, on the other hand, is usually flowing. It can be made of chiffon, which gives it a soft and elegant look, or tulle, which adds volume. A knee-length or just-above-knee-length skirt is common for cocktail dresses, making it easy to move around and dance at a party.
Wrap-Style Cocktail Dresses: Wrap-style cocktail dresses are another popular option in the Very Curve collection. The wrap style creates an illusion of a smaller waist, which is flattering for many body shapes. These dresses usually have a V-neckline, which elongates the neck and draws the eye upwards. The wrap can be secured with a tie or a hidden clasp. They are often made of comfortable fabrics like cotton-blend or a soft synthetic material. Wrap-style cocktail dresses can be dressed up with high-heeled sandals and statement jewelry for a more formal cocktail party or dressed down slightly with ballet flats for a semi-formal event.
Evening Gowns
Ball-Gown Style: Very Curve offers ball-gown-style evening gowns that are perfect for formal events like black-tie weddings or galas. These gowns have a fitted bodice that can be adorned with elaborate embroidery, beading, or lace. The bodice may have a sweetheart neckline, which is very feminine, or a halter neck for a more unique look. The skirt of the ball-gown is voluminous, usually made of multiple layers of tulle or organza. It flares out from the waist, creating a dramatic and elegant silhouette. Some ball-gowns may also have a long train at the back, adding to the grandeur of the dress.
Mermaid and Trumpet Styles: Mermaid and trumpet-style evening gowns in the Very Curve range are designed to show off your curves. The mermaid style is fitted from the top all the way down to the knees and then flares out, resembling the shape of a mermaid’s tail. The trumpet style is similar but starts to flare out a bit higher, around the mid-thigh. These styles are great for hourglass-shaped bodies as they accentuate the curves. The dresses can be made of luxurious fabrics like satin or silk, and they may have details such as ruching on the bodice to add texture or a beaded belt to define the waist.
Work-Appropriate Occasion Dresses
Sheath Dresses: Sheath dresses are a staple for work-related occasions, and Very Curve has plus-size options. These dresses have a straight-cut silhouette that fits closely to the body, usually ending at or just above the knee. Made of structured fabrics like ponte knit or a blend of polyester and viscose, they give a professional look. Sheath dresses may have a simple round neck or a V-neck. Some may come with a small detail like a button-down front or a thin belt to define the waist. You can pair them with a blazer and low-heeled pumps for a polished work outfit.
A-Line Dresses: A-line dresses are also a good choice for work occasions. They have a fitted bodice and a skirt that gradually flares out from the waist, creating an “A” shape. This style is flattering for many body types as it balances the proportions. The bodice can be plain or have some subtle details like a small ruffle or a lace trim. The skirt can be made of various fabrics, such as cotton for a more casual work look or a more structured fabric like wool for a more formal office environment.
Fabric Considerations in Very Curve Occasion Dresses
Satin
Satin is a popular fabric in Very Curve occasion dresses, especially for formal and glamorous looks. It has a smooth, shiny surface that gives the dress a luxurious appearance. Satin drapes well, following the body’s curves in an elegant way. In evening gowns and some cocktail dresses, satin is used to create a sophisticated look. However, satin can wrinkle easily, so it may require careful handling and steaming before wearing. Dresses made of satin are often heavier and more structured, which is great for formal styles like ball-gowns and mermaid-style dresses.
Chiffon
Chiffon is a lightweight and flowing fabric that is commonly used in Very Curve’s more delicate and feminine occasion dresses. It’s perfect for creating a soft and ethereal look, like in some cocktail dresses and the skirts of evening gowns. Chiffon is a bit sheer, so these dresses are usually lined. It moves gracefully with the body, adding to the overall charm of the dress. Chiffon can be layered to add volume or used on its own for a more simple and elegant look. It’s a breathable fabric, which is great if you’ll be wearing the dress for an extended period.
Lace
Lace is a delicate and feminine fabric that Very Curve uses to add a touch of elegance to their occasion dresses. It can be used as an overlay on a dress made of another fabric, like a cotton-blend or satin, or it can be the main fabric for a more intricate look. In cocktail dresses and evening gowns, lace can be used to create a more formal and romantic feel. Good-quality lace has a detailed pattern and a soft feel against the skin. When choosing a Very Curve dress with lace, make sure the lace is well-made and doesn’t feel scratchy.
Ponte Knit
Ponte knit is a structured and stretchy fabric that is often used in Very Curve’s work-appropriate occasion dresses, such as sheath dresses. It holds its shape well, giving a professional look, while the stretch allows for ease of movement. Ponte knit is relatively easy to care for and can be machine-washed (always check the care label). It’s a great fabric for dresses that need to maintain a certain silhouette throughout the day, whether you’re sitting at a desk or moving around in a meeting.
Tulle
Tulle is a net-like fabric that is used to add volume to dresses, especially in ball-gowns and some cocktail dresses. It’s lightweight and can be layered to create a full and fluffy look. Tulle is often used in combination with other fabrics like satin or chiffon. It can be dyed or decorated with beads and sequins to add more glamour. Tulle is relatively easy to work with and gives dresses a more fairy-tale-like appearance.
How to Style Very Curve Occasion Dresses
Footwear
The right shoes can really complete the look of a Very Curve occasion dress. For a cocktail dress, high-heeled sandals are a classic choice. They add a touch of elegance and make your legs look longer. You can choose sandals with a simple design for a more understated look or ones with beading or embellishments to match the dress. For an evening gown, especially a ball-gown, high-heeled pumps are a great option. They provide stability and a more formal look. Nude-colored shoes can create an elongating effect, making your legs look longer, while black shoes can provide a bold contrast. For work-appropriate occasion dresses, low-heeled pumps or ballet flats are ideal. They give a professional and polished look.
Jewelry
Jewelry can enhance the beauty of your Very Curve occasion dress. For a cocktail dress, a statement necklace can draw attention to your neckline and add a pop of color or sparkle. You can choose a bold, chunky necklace with crystals or a more delicate, beaded one. Earrings also play an important role. Chandelier earrings can be very glamorous for a formal cocktail party, while stud earrings are a more simple and classic choice. Bracelets and bangles can add some extra style to your wrists. For an evening gown, a diamond or pearl-studded necklace can be a perfect match. You can also add a pair of elegant drop-earrings and a simple bracelet. For work-appropriate occasion dresses, keep the jewelry simple. A small pendant necklace and stud earrings are sufficient.
Bags
The bag you choose should complement your Very Curve occasion dress and the occasion. For a cocktail dress, a clutch bag is the way to go. You can choose a clutch in a color that matches or contrasts with your dress. It can be adorned with beads or sequins for a more glamorous look. The size of the clutch should be appropriate for the essentials you need to carry, like lipstick, a compact mirror, and some tissues. For an evening gown, a more elaborate clutch with a longer strap (so you can carry it on your shoulder if needed) can be a great addition. For work-appropriate occasion dresses, a structured handbag in a neutral color like black, brown, or beige is a great choice. It gives a professional look.
Outerwear
If you need an extra layer, outerwear can add a different dimension to your outfit. For a cocktail dress, a lightweight shawl or a bolero jacket can be worn. A shawl, especially a lace or chiffon one, can add a touch of elegance. A bolero jacket, which is short and cropped, can give a more structured look. For an evening gown, a fur-trimmed shawl or a long, formal coat can be worn to keep you warm while still looking stylish. For work-appropriate occasion dresses, a blazer is essential. It can be worn over a sheath or A-line dress to give a more professional look.
Where to Buy Very Curve Occasion Dresses
Very Curve Retail Stores
The most straightforward way to buy Very Curve occasion dresses is to visit their retail stores. Very Curve has physical stores in some locations. Shopping in-store allows you to see and feel the dresses in person. You can try them on to ensure the perfect fit, and the store staff can provide helpful advice on sizing and styling. They can also show you different color options and any new arrivals in the occasion dress collection. The in-store experience gives you a chance to get a better sense of the quality of the fabric and the details of the dress.
Online at Very Website
The Very website is a convenient option to buy Very Curve occasion dresses, especially if there isn’t a store near you. Their website has a dedicated plus-size section where you can easily find the occasion dress collection. You can browse through a wide range of dresses, filter them by style, color, size, and price. The product descriptions are detailed, and there are usually multiple images of each dress from different angles. Some items may also have customer reviews, which can give you an idea of how the dress fits and looks on real people. You can also take advantage of online-exclusive offers and discounts. The online store is open 24/7, allowing you to shop at your convenience.
Department Stores
Some major department stores carry Very Curve products, including their occasion dresses. Department stores like Debenhams (where available) or other mid-to-high-end department stores often have a dedicated area for plus-size fashion, which may include Very Curve. Shopping at a department store gives you the opportunity to compare Very Curve dresses with other brands. The sales associates in department stores can also offer assistance, and you may be able to find Very Curve occasion dresses on sale during store-wide promotions.
Caring for Your Very Curve Occasion Dresses
Washing Instructions
Always check the washing instructions on the label of your Very Curve occasion dress. Different fabrics require different care methods. Satin dresses are often best dry-cleaned to preserve the fabric’s quality and prevent it from wrinkling or losing its sheen. Chiffon and tulle dresses may need to be hand-washed or dry-cleaned, depending on the label. Dresses with lace or beading may require even more delicate handling. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as they can damage the fabric and any embellishments. If you’re unsure about how to wash a particular dress, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner.
Storing Your Dresses
When storing your Very Curve occasion dresses, it’s important to hang them up properly. Use a hanger that has enough support to keep the dress in shape. If the dress has a lot of volume in the skirt or delicate details, you may want to use a wide-shouldered hanger or a padded hanger. Avoid folding the dress for long periods as it can cause creases in the fabric. If you need to store the dress for an extended time, you can cover it with a garment bag to protect it from dust and keep it looking fresh. For dresses with long trains or a lot of layers, you may need to consider a larger storage space to prevent the dress from getting crushed.
Conclusion
Very Curve occasion dresses offer a wonderful selection for plus-size women. By understanding sizing, exploring different styles, choosing the right fabric, and knowing how to style and care for your dresses, you can look and feel amazing at any occasion. Whether you’re attending a glamorous event or a professional gathering, Very Curve has a dress that can make you stand out and feel confident. So, start exploring their collection, whether in-store or online, and find the perfect occasion dress for you.
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