In the world of fashion, every woman deserves to feel sexy and empowered, regardless of her size. Plus size women have a vast array of sexy dress options available to them, allowing them to flaunt their curves and embrace their unique beauty. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about women’s sexy plus size dresses, from understanding sizing to finding the perfect styles for different occasions.
Understanding Plus Size Sizing
When it comes to shopping for plus size dresses, getting the right fit is crucial. Plus size generally refers to sizes 14 and above, but sizing can vary significantly between brands. To ensure a great fit, start by taking accurate measurements of your bust, waist, and hips. Use a soft measuring tape and measure around the fullest part of your bust, the narrowest part of your waist (usually just above the belly button), and around the widest part of your hips.
Most clothing brands provide sizing charts on their websites or in-store. Compare your measurements to these charts. Keep in mind that some brands may have vanity sizing, where the size number doesn’t match the actual measurements. It’s always better to go by the numbers on the sizing chart rather than relying solely on the size label you’re used to.
Another aspect of sizing is the cut of the dress. Different cuts can have a big impact on how the dress fits and flatters your body. For example, a fit-and-flare dress might be more forgiving around the midsection and accentuate the hips, while a bodycon dress will hug your curves more closely. Understanding your body shape and how different dress cuts work with it can help you make better sizing choices.
The Allure of Sexy Plus Size Dresses
Sexy plus size dresses are not just about showing skin; they’re about celebrating your body and feeling confident. These dresses come in a wide range of styles, each with its own way of highlighting your best features. A well-chosen sexy dress can make you feel like the most glamorous woman in the room.
One of the great things about sexy plus size dresses is their versatility. You can find dresses suitable for a night out at a club, a romantic dinner date, a formal event, or even a day at the beach. The right dress can transform your look and your mood, giving you the courage to stand out and be noticed.
Styles of Sexy Plus Size Dresses
Bodycon Dresses
Bodycon dresses are a classic choice for a sexy look. These form-fitting dresses hug your curves from top to bottom, highlighting every contour of your body. They are perfect for showing off your hourglass figure or emphasizing your curves if you have a more rectangular body shape. Bodycon dresses often come in stretchy materials like spandex and polyester blends, which not only provide a snug fit but also allow for ease of movement.
You can find bodycon dresses in various lengths, from mini dresses that show off your legs for a more daring look to midi or maxi lengths that offer a touch of elegance. They also come in a wide range of colors and prints. Solid-colored bodycon dresses, such as black, red, or royal blue, are always in style and exude sophistication. Printed bodycon dresses, like floral or animal prints, can add a fun and trendy element to your outfit.
Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are incredibly flattering for plus size women. The diagonal wrap design creates an illusion of a smaller waist, giving you an hourglass silhouette. The wrap style also allows for some adjustability in fit, making it suitable for different body shapes. Whether you have a larger bust, wider hips, or a more balanced figure, a wrap dress can enhance your natural curves.
These dresses usually have a V-neckline, which is not only sexy but also elongates the neck, drawing the eye upwards. Wrap dresses can be made of different materials, including cotton for a more casual look, silk for a luxurious feel, or jersey for comfort and stretch. You can dress them up with heels and statement jewelry for a formal event or dress them down with sandals for a summer day out.
Off-the-Shoulder Dresses
Off-the-shoulder dresses are a great way to show a little skin in a tasteful and sexy manner. They expose the shoulders and collarbone, which are often considered feminine and alluring. For plus size women, this style can draw attention away from the midsection and towards the upper body, creating a more balanced look.
Off-the-shoulder dresses come in different sleeve lengths and skirt styles. You can find them with short sleeves, long sleeves, or even sleeveless versions. The skirt can be a full-length maxi for a formal and elegant look, a knee-length A-line for a more casual yet stylish appearance, or a mini skirt for a more daring and youthful vibe. These dresses are available in a variety of fabrics, such as chiffon, lace, or satin, each adding a different texture and feel to the overall look.
Sheath Dresses
Sheath dresses are sleek and sophisticated, offering a sexy yet refined look. They are typically straight-cut and fit closely to the body, ending at or just above the knee. Sheath dresses are great for highlighting your curves in a more understated way.
They are often made of structured fabrics like wool, linen, or ponte knit, which help maintain the shape of the dress and give it a polished appearance.
These dresses are perfect for formal occasions such as business events, cocktail parties, or weddings. You can accessorize a sheath dress with a statement belt to define your waist, add some high-heeled pumps for a touch of elegance, and throw on a stylish blazer for a more professional look if needed. Sheath dresses also come in a range of colors, from classic neutrals like black, white, and gray to bold and vibrant hues for a more eye-catching effect.
Maxi Dresses with Slits
Maxi dresses are already a popular choice for plus size women as they offer a flowing and elegant look. When you add a slit to a maxi dress, it takes the sexiness up a notch. The slit allows for a peek of leg, adding a touch of allure without being too revealing. Maxi dresses with slits can be made of various materials, such as chiffon, which gives a light and airy feel, or jersey for a more comfortable and casual look.
These dresses are suitable for a variety of occasions, from beach weddings to evening dinners. They can be worn with flat sandals for a laid-back summer look or dressed up with high-heeled sandals and statement jewelry for a more formal event. Maxi dresses with slits also come in different patterns and colors, allowing you to express your personal style.
Choosing the Right Sexy Plus Size Dress for Your Body Shape
Apple-Shaped Body
If you have an apple-shaped body, which means you carry more weight around your midsection, look for dresses that draw attention away from the stomach area. Wrap dresses are a great option as they create an illusion of a smaller waist. Off-the-shoulder dresses can also be flattering as they focus the attention on the shoulders and upper body. Avoid dresses that are too tight around the midsection or have a lot of detailing in that area. Instead, choose dresses with A-line skirts or those that flow freely from the bust.
Pear-Shaped Body
For pear-shaped bodies, where the hips are wider than the shoulders, bodycon dresses can be a great choice. They can help balance out your proportions by highlighting your upper body and hips. Dresses with a fitted top and a flared skirt, like fit-and-flare or A-line dresses, are also very flattering. These styles draw attention to the waist and add some volume to the upper body, creating a more harmonious look. Darker colors on the bottom half of the dress can help minimize the appearance of wider hips.
Hourglass-Shaped Body
If you have an hourglass-shaped body with well-defined curves, you can pretty much rock any sexy plus size dress. Bodycon dresses are a natural fit as they showcase your curves to perfection. Wrap dresses can also enhance your hourglass figure by accentuating the waist. You can experiment with different lengths, styles, and colors to show off your figure in the best way possible. A sheath dress can also look amazing on an hourglass-shaped body, highlighting your curves in a more sophisticated manner.
Rectangle-Shaped Body
For rectangle-shaped bodies, which lack a defined waist, dresses that create the illusion of curves are ideal. Wrap dresses are great for this as they add a diagonal line that breaks up the straight lines of your body and gives the appearance of a waist. Dresses with ruching or gathering, especially around the waist area, can also help create curves. Off-the-shoulder dresses can add some width to the upper body, making your figure look more balanced.
Fabrics for Sexy Plus Size Dresses
Lace
Lace is a classic and feminine fabric that adds a touch of elegance and sexiness to any dress. It comes in various patterns and densities. For plus size dresses, lace can be used in different ways. A full-lace dress can be incredibly glamorous, while a dress with lace accents, such as a lace-trimmed neckline or sleeves, can add a subtle and sophisticated touch. Lace is often combined with other fabrics like lining materials to make it more comfortable to wear. It’s perfect for formal events, such as weddings or evening galas.
Chiffon
Chiffon is a lightweight and flowing fabric that gives dresses a dreamy and ethereal look. It’s great for maxi dresses, especially those with slits, as it moves gracefully with your body. Chiffon is also often used in overlaying other fabrics, adding a layer of softness and elegance. It’s a breathable fabric, making it suitable for warmer weather. However, it can be a bit sheer, so it’s usually lined. Chiffon dresses are perfect for summer parties, beach weddings, or any occasion where you want to look light and airy.
Satin
Satin has a luxurious sheen that makes dresses look and feel expensive. It’s a smooth and sleek fabric that drapes well on the body, highlighting your curves. Satin dresses are often associated with formal events. A satin sheath dress or a satin maxi dress can make you stand out at a black-tie event. Satin can be a bit slippery, so it’s important to choose a dress with a good fit or use appropriate undergarments to keep it in place.
Jersey
Jersey is a stretchy and comfortable fabric that is commonly used in casual and semi-formal dresses. It’s great for bodycon dresses as it hugs your curves without being too restrictive. Jersey dresses are easy to move in and are suitable for everyday wear or more laid-back occasions. They come in a variety of colors and can be dressed up or down depending on the accessories you choose.
Accessorizing Your Sexy Plus Size Dress
Footwear
The right shoes can take your sexy plus size dress to the next level. For a formal event, high-heeled pumps are a classic choice. They elongate the legs and add an air of elegance. Strappy sandals are also great for summer events or when you want a more open-toed look. For a more casual or edgy look, you can pair your dress with platform shoes or even stylish boots, depending on the style of the dress and the occasion.
Jewelry
Jewelry can enhance the sexiness of your dress. A statement necklace can draw attention to your neckline and add some sparkle. If you’re wearing an off-the-shoulder dress, a delicate choker can be a great addition. Earrings also play an important role. Hoop earrings can give a fun and flirty look, while stud earrings offer a more classic and understated elegance. Bracelets and bangles can add some extra style to your wrists. You can choose jewelry that complements the color and style of your dress.
Bags
A stylish bag is a must-have accessory. For a formal event, a clutch bag is the way to go. It can be small and elegant, carrying just the essentials. You can choose a clutch in a color that matches or contrasts with your dress. For a more casual occasion, a cross-body bag or a shoulder bag can be more practical while still looking fashionable. The style of the bag should also complement the overall look of your dress.
Outerwear
If you need an extra layer, outerwear can add a different dimension to your outfit. A leather jacket can give a sexy and edgy look when paired with a bodycon or a wrap dress. A bolero jacket, especially in a luxurious fabric like silk or lace, can add a touch of elegance to a formal dress. A denim jacket is a great option for a more casual and laid-back look.
Where to Buy Sexy Plus Size Dresses
Online Retailers
There are numerous online retailers that specialize in plus size fashion. Websites like Eloquii, Lane Bryant, and Torrid offer a wide range of sexy plus size dresses. Shopping online gives you the convenience of browsing through a large inventory from the comfort of your home. You can easily compare prices, read customer reviews, and find dresses in different styles and sizes. Many online retailers also offer detailed sizing charts and virtual try-on options to help you make the right choice.
Department Stores
Major department stores such as Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Bloomingdale’s have plus size sections that carry a variety of sexy dresses. Shopping at a department store allows you to try on the dresses in person, ensuring a proper fit. The sales associates in these stores can also provide valuable advice on styles and sizing. Department stores often carry well-known brands as well as their own private label products, giving you a diverse selection to choose from.
Specialty Plus Size Boutiques
Specialty plus size boutiques, both online and in-store, are a great place to find unique and hard-to-find sexy plus size dresses. These boutiques focus specifically on plus size fashion and may offer more personalized service. They often carry independent designers or exclusive collections that you won’t find in larger retail stores. Shopping at a specialty boutique can be a more intimate and enjoyable experience, and you’re likely to discover one-of-a-kind pieces.
Caring for Your Sexy Plus Size Dresses
Washing Instructions
Always check the washing instructions on the label of your dress. Different fabrics require different care methods. For example, lace dresses may need to be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to avoid damaging the delicate lacework. Chiffon dresses can usually be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle. Satin dresses often require dry cleaning to maintain their sheen and shape. Jersey dresses are generally more forgiving and can usually be machine-washed, but it’s still best to follow the label instructions.
Storing Your Dresses
Proper storage is important to keep your sexy plus size dresses in good condition. Hang your dresses on sturdy hangers to maintain their shape. If the dress has a lot of embellishments or is made of a delicate fabric, use a padded hanger to prevent damage. Avoid overcrowding your closet, as this can cause dresses to wrinkle or get damaged. You can also use garment bags to protect your dresses from dust and keep them looking their best.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sexy plus size dresses are a wonderful way for plus size women to express their style and feel confident. With a wide range of styles, fabrics, and accessories available, there’s a perfect dress for every occasion and every body shape. By understanding sizing, choosing the right style for your body, and accessorizing appropriately, you can rock a sexy plus size dress with pride and turn heads wherever you go. Whether you’re hitting the town for a night out or attending a special event, embrace your curves and let your inner beauty shine through with the right sexy plus size dress.
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