Spring is a season full of life and love, and it’s no wonder that many couples choose this time of year to tie the knot. If you’ve been invited to a spring wedding and you’re a plus-size woman, finding the perfect dress can be a bit of a challenge. But don’t worry! There are plenty of beautiful options out there that will make you look and feel amazing. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about choosing a spring wedding guest dress in plus sizes.
Understanding Plus-Size Sizing
Before we start looking at dresses, it’s important to understand plus-size sizing. Plus-size clothing generally starts at size 14 or 16, but sizing can vary between brands. It’s crucial to measure yourself accurately. Use a flexible tape measure and measure your bust, waist, and hips. Write down these measurements and refer to the size chart of the brand you’re interested in. For example, some brands might have a size 14 with a bust measurement of 40 inches, a waist of 32 inches, and hips of 42 inches, while another brand could have different measurements for the same size.
Style Considerations for Spring Wedding Guest Dresses
A-Line Dresses
A-line dresses are a classic choice for any occasion, and they’re especially flattering for plus-size women. The shape of an A-line dress starts fitted at the top, usually at the bust or empire waist, and then flares out like the letter “A” towards the hem. This style helps to create an hourglass figure by emphasizing the smallest part of the body (the bust or empire waist) and flowing over the hips and thighs, hiding any areas you might be self-conscious about. In spring, look for A-line dresses in light, flowy fabrics like chiffon or organza. These materials give the dress a delicate, airy look that’s perfect for the season. You can find A-line dresses with short sleeves, which are great for a spring day when the sun is out but there might still be a bit of a breeze.
Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are another excellent option. They’re designed to wrap around the body and tie at the side or in the front. This style is incredibly versatile as it can be adjusted to fit your body shape perfectly. For plus-size women, the wrap dress cinches in at the waist, creating a defined silhouette. In spring, you can find wrap dresses in floral prints, which are a staple of the season. The print adds a touch of femininity and makes the dress look very appropriate for a spring wedding. The fabric choices for spring wrap dresses are often cotton or cotton-blend, which are breathable and comfortable to wear all day long.
Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses are long, flowing dresses that typically reach the ankles. They are a great choice for a spring wedding as they are elegant and comfortable. For plus-size women, maxi dresses can be very flattering. Look for ones with a high-low hem, where the front is a bit shorter than the back. This style gives a modern twist to the traditional maxi dress and can also make you look taller. Maxi dresses in spring come in a variety of colors, from soft pastels like mint green and lavender to bold, bright colors like coral and royal blue. You can choose a maxi dress with a simple, solid color and accessorize it with a statement necklace or a colorful scarf to add some personality.
Color Choices for Spring Wedding Guest Dresses
Pastel Colors
Pastel colors are a must-have for spring. Shades like baby pink, light blue, and mint green are soft and delicate, perfect for the fresh and blooming atmosphere of spring. Plus-size women can look amazing in pastel-colored dresses. A pastel-colored A-line dress, for example, can give you a very feminine and elegant look. These colors also tend to be very flattering on different skin tones. If you have a fair complexion, a baby pink dress might enhance your skin’s natural glow. For those with a darker complexion, a mint green dress can create a beautiful contrast.
Floral Prints
Floral prints are synonymous with spring. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns. You can find floral prints with big, bold flowers or small, dainty ones. A plus-size wrap dress in a floral print can be a show-stopper at a spring wedding. The print can draw attention away from any areas you might not want to highlight and focus on the overall beauty of the dress. When choosing a floral-printed dress, make sure the colors in the print work well together and also with your skin tone. For example, if you have warm undertones in your skin, a floral print with warm colors like yellows and oranges in it might suit you better.
Bold Colors
If you want to make a statement at the spring wedding, don’t be afraid to choose a bold-colored dress. Colors like fuchsia, emerald green, and royal purple can look stunning on plus-size women. A bold-colored maxi dress with a simple design can be very elegant. You can balance the boldness of the color by keeping your accessories simple. For example, a pair of silver or gold strappy sandals and a small clutch can complete the look without overwhelming the dress.
Fabric Matters
Chiffon
Chiffon is a lightweight, sheer fabric that is perfect for spring wedding guest dresses. It has a beautiful drape, which means it flows gracefully over the body. For plus-size women, chiffon can be very flattering as it doesn’t cling to the body. You can find chiffon dresses in various styles, from A-line to maxi. The sheer nature of chiffon can also add a touch of elegance. Some chiffon dresses might have a lining underneath to provide more coverage, while others might be designed to be worn as is, with a bit of transparency showing.
Cotton
Cotton is a natural fabric that is known for its breathability. In spring, when the weather can be a bit warm, a cotton dress is a great choice. Cotton comes in different weights, so you can find a cotton dress that is light enough for a spring day but still has enough structure to hold its shape. Plus-size cotton dresses are often easy to move in, which is important if you’ll be dancing at the wedding. You can find cotton dresses in simple, solid colors or with fun prints like polka dots or stripes.
Lace
Lace is a very feminine and elegant fabric. It can add a touch of sophistication to any dress. For spring wedding guest dresses, lace is a great option. You can find plus-size dresses with lace overlays or ones that are made entirely of lace. Lace dresses often have a lining, especially if the lace is very open or sheer. The texture of lace can also be very flattering, as it adds visual interest to the dress. A lace A-line dress in a soft color like ivory or blush can be a beautiful choice for a spring wedding.
Finding the Right Fit
Shopping in-store
When shopping for a spring wedding guest dress in plus sizes, going to a physical store can be a great option. You can try on different dresses and see how they fit your body. Make sure to take your time in the fitting room. Move around, sit down, and stand up in the dress to see how it feels. Check if the dress is too tight around the bust, waist, or hips. If it’s too tight, it will be uncomfortable to wear and might not look as good as it could. Also, pay attention to the length of the dress. If you’re wearing heels, make sure the dress doesn’t drag on the ground.
Online Shopping
Online shopping has become very popular, and there are many great plus-size dress options available online. When shopping online, carefully read the product descriptions and size charts. Look for customer reviews, as they can give you an idea of how the dress fits in real life. Some online stores also offer virtual fitting tools, where you can enter your measurements and see how the dress might look on you. If you’re unsure about a size, it’s often a good idea to order two sizes and return the one that doesn’t fit.
Accessorizing Your Spring Wedding Guest Dress
Jewelry
Jewelry can really enhance your spring wedding guest dress. A statement necklace can add a touch of glamour. If you’re wearing a simple, solid-colored dress, a necklace with big, colorful beads or crystals can make the outfit more interesting. For a more understated look, you can choose a delicate pendant necklace. Earrings are also important. You can go for small stud earrings if you want a simple look, or choose chandelier earrings for a more glamorous feel. Bracelets and bangles can also add some sparkle to your outfit.
Shoes
The right shoes can complete your look. For a spring wedding, strappy sandals are a great choice. They are comfortable and show off your feet. You can choose sandals with a low heel for a more casual look or go for a higher heel if you want to add some height. If you’re not comfortable in heels, there are also some cute flat sandals available. Make sure the color of your shoes coordinates with your dress. For example, if you’re wearing a pastel-colored dress, you can choose white or nude-colored sandals.
Handbags
A handbag is not only useful for carrying your essentials but also an important part of your outfit. A small clutch bag is perfect for a spring wedding. You can choose a clutch in a color that matches your dress or go for a contrasting color to add a pop of color. Some clutches come with embellishments like beads or sequins, which can add some extra glamour to your look.
Tips for Wearing Your Spring Wedding Guest Dress
Comfort is Key
No matter how beautiful a dress is, if it’s not comfortable, you won’t enjoy wearing it. Make sure the dress you choose allows you to move freely. If the fabric is too itchy or the dress is too tight, it will be a distraction throughout the wedding. So, prioritize comfort when choosing your dress.
Pay Attention to Underwear
Wearing the right underwear is crucial. A well-fitting bra can make a big difference in how your dress looks. If you’re wearing a dress with a low back or a strapless dress, you might need to invest in a special bra. Also, consider wearing seamless underwear to avoid any visible panty lines.
Get the Right Alterations
If the dress you buy doesn’t fit perfectly, don’t worry. You can get it altered. A good tailor can make small adjustments to the dress to make it fit you like a glove. Whether it’s taking in the waist a bit or shortening the length, alterations can really enhance the look of the dress.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect spring wedding guest dress in plus sizes is all about understanding your body shape, choosing the right style, color, and fabric, and accessorizing it well. With so many beautiful options available, you’re sure to find a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful at the spring wedding. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the celebration and have a great time! So, start your dress-hunting journey early, and you’ll be ready to shine at the wedding.
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