Tulle plus size dresses have become a popular choice among women who want to make a statement. Tulle, with its lightweight and airy texture, adds a touch of elegance, charm, and often a bit of drama to any dress. Whether you’re looking for a dress for a special occasion like a wedding, a formal party, or even a themed event, tulle plus size dresses offer a wide range of options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all aspects of tulle plus size dresses, from how to get the right size to different styles, fabric details, styling ideas, and where to find them.
Understanding Sizing in Tulle Plus Size Dresses
The Significance of Correct Sizing
Getting the right size in a tulle plus size dress is crucial. A well-fitting dress not only looks better but also ensures you feel comfortable throughout the day or evening. Plus size women come in various body shapes, and tulle dresses need to be sized appropriately to flatter each shape. Tulle, being a delicate and sometimes voluminous fabric, can be unforgiving if the size is off. For example, if a tulle dress is too small, it may not drape properly, and the tulle could bunch up or feel constricting. On the other hand, a dress that’s too large might lose its shape and not highlight your best features.
Measuring for a Perfect Fit
To ensure you select the right size tulle 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, neither too tight nor 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 referring to the sizing chart of the brand you’re interested in, be honest about your measurements. If you’re between two sizes, it’s often advisable to choose the larger size. Tulle dresses can sometimes be taken in by a skilled tailor, but it’s much more difficult to let out a dress that’s too small, especially if it has elaborate tulle details or is part of a complex design.
Accommodating Different Body Shapes
Plus size women have diverse body shapes, and tulle plus size dresses can be designed 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. Tulle skirts on empire-waisted dresses can add a sense of elegance and volume, making the overall look more balanced. Pear-shaped bodies, with wider hips than shoulders, can look for tulle dresses with a fitted top and a flared tulle skirt. The fitted top emphasizes the smaller upper body, while the flared tulle skirt adds volume to the lower body, balancing the proportions. Hourglass-shaped women can find tulle dresses that accentuate their curves, such as mermaid-style dresses with a tulle overlay. These dresses hug the body from the top and flare out at the bottom, highlighting the waist and hips. Rectangle-shaped bodies can benefit from tulle dresses with ruching or gathering around the waist to create the illusion of curves.
Styles of Tulle Plus Size Dresses
Ball-Gown Style
The ball-gown style is a classic when it comes to tulle plus size dresses. It features a fitted bodice that can be made of various materials like satin, lace, or a combination of both. The bodice may have a sweetheart neckline, which is very feminine, or a V-neck to elongate the neck. The skirt of the ball-gown is where tulle truly shines. It’s usually made of multiple layers of tulle, creating a voluminous and dramatic silhouette. The tulle layers can be plain or decorated with sequins, beads, or embroidery to add a touch of glamour. Some ball-gowns may also have a long train at the back, made of tulle, which adds to the grandeur of the dress. This style is perfect for formal events like black-tie weddings, galas, or debutante balls.
A-Line Style
A-line tulle plus size dresses are also quite popular. They have a fitted bodice and a skirt that gradually flares out from the waist, creating an “A” shape. The bodice can be simple or adorned with details such as a small ruffle, lace trim, or beading. The tulle skirt in A-line dresses can be made of one or more layers, depending on the desired volume. A single-layer tulle skirt gives a more delicate and understated look, while multiple layers add more fullness. A-line tulle dresses are flattering for many body types as they balance the proportions. They are suitable for a variety of occasions, from semi-formal parties to more casual garden weddings.
Mermaid and Trumpet Styles
Mermaid and trumpet-style tulle plus size dresses 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 often have a fitted bodice, and the tulle is usually used as an overlay on the flared part of the skirt. The tulle can be in a solid color or have a pattern, like a floral or geometric design. Mermaid and trumpet-style tulle dresses are great for hourglass-shaped women as they accentuate the curves. They are perfect for a more modern and glamorous event, such as a fancy cocktail party or a beach-side wedding.
Cocktail Dresses
Tulle plus size cocktail dresses are a wonderful choice for semi-formal events. These dresses are usually shorter in length, typically ending at or above the knee. The bodice can be fitted and may have details like beading, sequins, or lace. The tulle skirt can be a single layer or multiple layers, adding a sense of fun and elegance. Some tulle cocktail dresses may have a flirty ruffled tulle hem or a tulle overlay with a unique pattern. You can pair these dresses with high-heeled sandals and a clutch to complete the look. They are ideal for a night out at a club, a dinner party, or a friend’s birthday celebration.
Evening Gowns
Tulle plus size evening gowns are the epitome of elegance for formal occasions. These gowns have a long, flowing skirt made of tulle, which can be several yards in length. The bodice can be elaborately designed, with intricate beading, embroidery, or a luxurious fabric like silk or satin. The tulle skirt may have a train, which can be detachable for ease of movement during the reception. Evening gowns can also have unique necklines, such as a halter neck or a one-shoulder design. They are perfect for events like charity galas, award ceremonies, or a high-end wedding as a guest.
Fabric Considerations in Tulle Plus Size Dresses
The Nature of Tulle
Tulle is a lightweight, net-like fabric that is typically made of nylon, polyester, or silk. It has a soft and airy feel, which is why it’s so popular for creating a dreamy and elegant look in dresses. Tulle comes in different grades of thickness and stiffness. Thinner tulle is more delicate and gives a very soft and floaty appearance, while thicker tulle can hold its shape better and create more volume. The color options for tulle are vast, ranging from classic white and black to pastels, bright colors, and even metallic hues.
Lining and Tulle
Since tulle is a bit sheer, most tulle plus size dresses are lined. The lining can be made of a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, satin, or a polyester blend. The lining not only provides coverage but also helps the tulle drape better. A smooth-lined tulle dress will have a more elegant fall, while a lining with some texture can add an interesting dimension to the overall look. The choice of lining fabric also affects the comfort of the dress. For example, a cotton lining is breathable and comfortable against the skin, while a satin lining can add a touch of luxury.
Combining Tulle with Other Fabrics
Tulle is often combined with other fabrics to create unique and stunning dress designs. In many dresses, the bodice may be made of a more structured fabric like satin or lace, while the skirt is tulle. Satin provides a smooth and shiny base, which contrasts beautifully with the airy tulle. Lace, on the other hand, adds a delicate and feminine touch. Tulle can also be layered over other fabrics, such as chiffon or organza, to create a more complex and textured look. When different fabrics are combined with tulle, it’s important to ensure they complement each other in terms of color, texture, and drape.
How to Style Tulle Plus Size Dresses
Footwear
The right shoes can enhance the look of your tulle plus size dress. For a formal ball-gown or evening gown, high-heeled pumps are a classic choice. They add height and elegance, making your silhouette more elongated. You can choose pumps in a color that matches the dress, such as black for a classic look or a metallic color for a more glamorous touch. For A-line or mermaid-style tulle dresses, strappy high-heeled sandals can be very flattering. They show off your feet and add a feminine and stylish element. If you’re wearing a tulle cocktail dress, you can opt for high-heeled sandals with a bit of sparkle, like ones with crystals or sequins, to match the dress’s glamour. For a more comfortable option, especially if you’ll be on your feet for a long time, you can choose low-heeled pumps or even flat shoes. There are many beautiful flat shoes available, such as ones with a tulle or lace overlay that can complement your dress.
Jewelry
Jewelry can really make your tulle plus size dress stand out. For a classic and elegant look, a simple pearl necklace and stud earrings can be perfect. The pearls’ smoothness and elegance complement the softness of the tulle. If your dress has a lot of beading or embroidery, you may want to keep the jewelry more understated. However, if your dress is more simple, a statement necklace can add a pop of color or sparkle. You can choose a necklace with crystals, gemstones, or a unique design. Earrings also play an important role. Chandelier earrings can be very glamorous for a formal event, while drop-earrings can add a touch of elegance. Bracelets and bangles can also add some extra style to your wrists. Just make sure the jewelry doesn’t overpower the dress but rather enhances its beauty.
Bags
The bag you choose should complement your tulle plus size dress and the occasion. For a formal event, a clutch bag is the way to go. You can choose a clutch in a color that matches or contrasts with your dress. A clutch with beading, sequins, or a tulle overlay can be a great match for a tulle dress. The size of the clutch should be appropriate for the essentials you need to carry, like lipstick, a compact mirror, and some tissues. For a more casual event where you might need to carry more items, a small cross-body bag or a structured handbag in a neutral color can work well. Just make sure the bag’s style doesn’t clash with the dress’s elegance.
Outerwear
If you need an extra layer, outerwear can add a different dimension to your outfit. For a formal event, a lightweight shawl or a bolero jacket can be worn over the tulle dress to keep you warm while still looking stylish. A shawl made of a delicate fabric like lace or chiffon can complement the tulle beautifully. A bolero jacket, especially one with a beaded or embroidered design, can add a touch of sophistication. For a more casual look, a denim jacket can be paired with a tulle dress for a trendy and laid-back vibe. Just make sure the outerwear doesn’t cover up too much of the dress’s beauty.
Where to Find Tulle Plus Size Dresses
Bridal and Formal Wear Boutiques
Bridal and formal wear boutiques are a great place to start your search for tulle plus size dresses. These boutiques often carry a wide range of formal dresses, including those with tulle. They usually have knowledgeable staff who can help you with sizing, suggest styles that will flatter your body shape, and show you different fabric options. You can try on different dresses to see how they look and feel. Some boutiques may also offer custom-made options, where you can work with a designer to create a one-of-a-kind tulle dress.
Online Retailers
There are numerous online retailers that specialize in plus size clothing, and many of them offer a great selection of tulle plus size dresses. Shopping online gives you access to a wider range of styles and designers. You can easily browse through different collections, compare prices, and read customer reviews. Online retailers often have detailed product descriptions and multiple images of each dress from different angles, which can help you get a better idea of how the dress will look. Some online retailers also offer virtual try-on options or sizing guides to help you make the right choice. However, when buying online, make sure to check the return policy in case the dress doesn’t fit as expected.
Department Stores
Some major department stores carry plus size clothing, including tulle dresses. Department stores usually have a dedicated area for plus size fashion. Shopping at a department store gives you the opportunity to compare different brands and styles of tulle dresses. The sales associates in department stores can also offer assistance, and you may be able to find tulle plus size dresses on sale during store-wide promotions.
Second-Hand and Vintage Stores
Second-hand and vintage stores can be a treasure trove for finding unique tulle plus size dresses. You may be able to find a one-of-a-kind dress from a past era at a more affordable price. Vintage tulle dresses often have unique details and high-quality craftsmanship. When shopping at second-hand or vintage stores, you may need to do some digging and be patient. You can also consider having the dress altered or restored to fit your style and size. Just make sure to check the condition of the dress carefully before purchasing.
Caring for Your Tulle Plus Size Dress
Washing and Cleaning
Tulle dresses require special care when it comes to washing and cleaning. Most tulle dresses are best dry-cleaned. Dry-cleaning helps to preserve the tulle’s delicate texture, color, and any embellishments like beads or sequins. If your dress has a small stain and is made of a more durable type of tulle, you may be able to spot-clean it at home. However, always check the care label on the dress first. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as they can damage the tulle. If you’re unsure about how to clean a particular tulle dress, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional cleaner.
Storing Your Dress
When storing your tulle plus size dress, it’s important to hang it up properly. Use a wide-shouldered hanger to prevent the shoulders of the dress from getting misshapen. If the dress has a long train or a lot of volume, you may need to use a special bridal dress hanger or a padded hanger. Store the dress in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as sunlight can fade the color of the tulle over time. You can also cover the dress with a garment bag to protect it from dust. If you plan to keep the dress for a long time, you may want to consider having it professionally preserved. Professional preservation involves cleaning the dress and then storing it in a special box to prevent yellowing and damage.
Conclusion
Tulle plus size dresses offer a world of style, elegance, and charm. By understanding sizing, exploring different styles, considering fabric details, knowing how to style them, and where to find and care for them, you can find the perfect tulle dress for any occasion. Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest at a special event, a tulle plus size dress can make you feel confident and beautiful. So, start your search and embrace the magic of tulle in your wardrobe.
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