Finding the perfect plus size dress can be a game-changer for your wardrobe. Venus, a well-known brand in the fashion world, offers a diverse collection of plus size dresses that combine style, comfort, and a great fit. Whether you’re looking for a dress for a special occasion, a day at the office, or a casual weekend out, Venus has options to suit every taste and need. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore all aspects of Venus plus size dresses, from understanding sizing to different styles, fabric choices, and where to purchase them.
Understanding Sizing in Venus Plus Size Dresses
Venus’ Sizing Approach
Venus recognizes that plus size women come in a wide variety of body shapes and sizes. Their sizing in the plus range typically starts around size 14 and goes up, aiming to provide a comfortable and flattering fit for all. Each size in their collection is carefully designed with specific bust, waist, and hip measurements. For instance, a size 16 in Venus plus size dresses might have a bust measurement that gives enough room for a full-busted woman without feeling too loose or tight. The waist measurement is calibrated to either define the natural waist or create an empire-style fit, depending on the dress design. The hip measurement is set to follow the body’s curves, allowing for easy movement.
How to Measure Yourself Accurately
To ensure you get the right-fitting Venus plus size 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, not too tight or too loose. Write this measurement down. 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 Venus sizing chart, be honest with yourself. If you’re between two sizes, it’s often better to choose the larger size. Venus plus size 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 a non-stretchy fabric.
Accommodating Different Body Shapes
Plus size women have various body shapes, and Venus designs their 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 Venus Plus Size Dresses
Casual Dresses
T-Shirt Dresses: Venus’ plus size T-shirt dresses are perfect for a laid-back day. They are often made of soft, breathable cotton or cotton-blend fabrics. These dresses usually have a relaxed fit, with a round neck or a V-neck. Some may feature fun prints, like floral patterns, animal prints, or geometric designs. You can pair a Venus plus size T-shirt dress with sneakers and a denim jacket for a classic, casual look. It’s great for running errands, having a picnic in the park, or just lounging at home.
Maxi Dresses: Maxi dresses in the Venus plus size collection are a popular choice. Made from lightweight fabrics like chiffon or jersey, they flow gracefully as you move. These maxi dresses may come in a variety of prints, such as tropical motifs, abstract art-inspired designs, or simple solid colors. They often have a drawstring or elasticated waist for a customizable fit. You can wear them with flat sandals for a beach-side stroll or dress them up with heeled sandals and statement jewelry for a more dressed-up casual occasion, like a backyard barbecue.
Work-Appropriate Dresses
Sheath Dresses: Sheath dresses are a staple for the office, and Venus offers stylish 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 by Venus might have a simple round neck or a V-neck, and 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 in Venus’ plus size range. 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.
Formal and Occasion Dresses
Cocktail Dresses: Venus’ plus size cocktail dresses are perfect for semi-formal events like parties or a night out. These dresses often feature elegant details such as beading, sequins, or lace. A cocktail dress might have a fitted bodice with a beaded neckline and a flowing skirt made of chiffon or satin. The length is usually knee-length or a bit shorter. You can pair these dresses with high-heeled sandals and a clutch to complete the look. The beading and sequins add a touch of glamour, while the lace gives a feminine and sophisticated feel.
Evening Gowns: For more formal occasions like weddings or galas, Venus offers plus size evening gowns. These gowns typically have a fitted bodice to show off your curves and a long, flowing skirt. They can be made of luxurious fabrics like satin or silk. Some evening gowns may have elaborate embroidery or a flowing train at the back. The bodice might have a unique neckline, like a sweetheart neckline or a halter neck. These gowns are designed to make you stand out and feel like a million dollars at any formal event.
Fabric Considerations in Venus Plus Size Dresses
Cotton and Cotton Blends
Cotton is a common fabric in Venus plus size dresses, especially for casual styles. It’s soft, breathable, and comfortable to wear, making it ideal for everyday use. Cotton-blend fabrics, which combine cotton with other materials like polyester or elastane, offer the benefits of cotton along with added durability and stretch. For example, a cotton-polyester blend in a T-shirt dress can make the dress more resistant to wrinkles, while a cotton-elastane blend in a maxi dress can provide a bit of stretch for a more comfortable fit. Cotton-blend fabrics also tend to hold their shape better over time, which is great for dresses that you’ll be wearing frequently.
Chiffon and Georgette
Chiffon and georgette are lightweight and flowing fabrics that are often used in Venus’ more formal and elegant dresses. Chiffon, in particular, is great for creating a soft and ethereal look. It’s often used in maxi dresses and cocktail dresses. Georgette has a slightly more textured feel compared to chiffon but still offers a flowing drape. These fabrics are usually lined to provide coverage, as they can be a bit sheer. They are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to an evening gown or a cocktail dress. Chiffon and georgette also move gracefully with your body, adding to the overall charm of the dress.
Ponte Knit and Satin
Ponte knit is a structured and stretchy fabric that is commonly used in Venus’ work-appropriate dresses, like sheath dresses. It holds its shape well, giving a professional look, while the stretch allows for ease of movement. Satin, on the other hand, is a luxurious fabric with a smooth, shiny surface. It’s used in formal dresses, such as evening gowns and some cocktail dresses, to give a glamorous and sophisticated appearance. Satin drapes beautifully, following the body’s curves in an elegant way. Ponte knit is also relatively easy to care for, and satin can be made to look new with proper handling and cleaning.
Lace
Lace is a delicate and feminine fabric that Venus uses to add a touch of elegance to their plus size 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. Lace-detailed dresses are often seen in their formal and occasion-wear collections. When choosing a Venus dress with lace, make sure the lace is of good quality and doesn’t feel scratchy against the skin. Good-quality lace will enhance the overall look of the dress and make you feel more comfortable wearing it.
How to Style Venus Plus Size Dresses
Footwear
The right shoes can really complete the look of a Venus plus size dress. For a casual T-shirt dress or maxi dress, sneakers are a great option. They provide comfort and a laid-back vibe. Flat sandals are also perfect for a summer-time casual look. For work-appropriate dresses like sheath or A-line dresses, low-heeled pumps or ballet flats are ideal. They give a professional and polished look. When it comes to formal and occasion dresses, high-heeled sandals or pumps add a touch of elegance. Nude-colored shoes can create an elongating effect, making your legs look longer, while black shoes can provide a bold contrast. For a more trendy look, you could also opt for colored or patterned shoes that complement the dress.
Jewelry
Jewelry can enhance the beauty of your Venus plus size dress. For a casual look, a simple pendant necklace and stud earrings can add a bit of style without being too over-the-top. If you’re wearing a more formal 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. Hoop earrings can add a bit of fun and trendiness, while chandelier earrings can be very glamorous for a formal event. Bracelets and bangles can add some extra style to your wrists. For a more coordinated look, choose jewelry that complements the color and style of the dress.
Bags
The bag you choose should complement your Venus plus size dress and the occasion. For a casual day out, a cross-body bag or a tote bag is practical. A cross-body bag keeps your hands free, and a tote bag can carry all your essentials. You can choose a bag with fun prints or simple, classic designs. For work, a structured handbag in a neutral color like black, brown, or beige is a great choice. It gives a professional look. For formal events, a clutch bag is the way to go. You can choose a clutch in a color that matches or contrasts with your dress, and 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.
Outerwear
If you need an extra layer, outerwear can add a different dimension to your outfit. For a casual look, a denim jacket is a classic choice. It gives a cool and laid-back vibe when paired with a Venus plus size dress. A cardigan, especially in a soft color like pastels, can add a cozy and feminine touch. For work, a blazer is essential. It can be worn over a sheath or A-line dress to give a more professional look. For formal events, a lightweight shawl or a bolero jacket can be worn over the dress to keep you warm while still looking stylish. The color and style of the outerwear should complement the dress and the overall look you’re going for.
Where to Find Venus Plus Size Dresses
Venus Retail Stores
The most straightforward way to buy Venus plus size dresses is to visit their retail stores. Venus 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 plus size 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.
Venus Online Store
The Venus online store is a convenient option, especially if there isn’t a store near you. Their website has a user-friendly interface with a specific plus size category. 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 Venus products, including their plus size dresses. Department stores like Macy’s or other mid-to-high-end department stores often have a dedicated area for plus-size fashion, which may include Venus. Shopping at a department store gives you the opportunity to compare Venus dresses with other brands. The sales associates in department stores can also offer assistance, and you may be able to find Venus plus size dresses on sale during store-wide promotions.
Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay may also have Venus plus size dresses. Buying from an online marketplace can sometimes offer more variety, especially if you’re looking for discontinued styles or second-hand options at a lower price. However, when buying from online marketplaces, make sure to check the seller’s reputation, return policy, and the authenticity of the product. Some sellers may offer unique finds, but it’s important to do your due diligence to ensure a satisfactory purchase.
Caring for Your Venus Plus Size Dresses
Washing Instructions
Always check the washing instructions on the label of your Venus plus size dress. Different fabrics require different care methods. Cotton and cotton-blend dresses are usually machine-washable, but it’s best to use a gentle cycle and cold water to prevent shrinking or fading. Chiffon and georgette 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 Venus plus size 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
Venus plus size dresses offer a wonderful selection for women with curves. 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 in Venus fashion. Whether you’re going to work, a party, or just enjoying a casual day, Venus has a dress that can make you feel confident and beautiful. So, start exploring their collection, whether in-store or online, and find the perfect dress for you.
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