When it comes to finding stylish and well-fitting plus size dresses, Dress Barn has long been a name that many women turn to. Dress Barn offers a wide range of options for plus size women, catering to different tastes, occasions, and body types. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at what Dress Barn has to offer in the plus size dress department, from understanding sizing to exploring the various styles available.
Understanding Plus Size Sizing at Dress Barn
The Basics of Plus Size at Dress Barn
Dress Barn typically categorizes plus size as sizes 14 and above. However, like many clothing retailers, their sizing can vary slightly from the standard sizing charts you might be familiar with. It’s crucial to pay attention to their specific sizing guidelines.
Using Dress Barn’s Sizing Chart
Dress Barn provides detailed sizing charts on their website and in-store. These charts include measurements for bust, waist, hips, and sometimes even length. To use the chart effectively, start by measuring yourself accurately. 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 the widest part of your hips.
Compare these measurements to the chart. For example, if your bust measurement falls within the range for a size 16 in Dress Barn’s chart, but your hip measurement is closer to a size 18, it’s a good idea to consider trying on both sizes to see which fits better.
Accounting for Different Dress Cuts
The cut of a dress can also impact how it fits. Dress Barn offers plus size dresses in various cuts such as A-line, fit-and-flare, bodycon, and sheath. An A-line dress, which flares out from the waist, may fit differently around the hips compared to a bodycon dress that hugs the body tightly. If you’re between sizes, an A-line dress might be more forgiving, while a bodycon dress may require a more precise fit.
Styles of Plus Size Dresses at Dress Barn
Casual Dresses for Everyday Wear
T-Shirt Dresses: Dress Barn has a great selection of plus size t-shirt dresses. These are perfect for a laid-back day. They are usually made of soft, breathable cotton or cotton blends. T-shirt dresses come in various lengths, from knee-length for a more modest look to mid-thigh for a slightly more casual and youthful vibe. You can find them in solid colors like black, white, or navy, which are easy to accessorize. Some may also have fun prints such as stripes, polka dots, or floral patterns.
Maxi Dresses: Maxi dresses are a staple in any plus size wardrobe, and Dress Barn offers a wide range. These long, flowing dresses are not only comfortable but also very stylish. They come in different materials, including lightweight chiffon for summer and heavier jersey for cooler months. Maxi dresses at Dress Barn may have features like side slits, which add a touch of allure, or empire waists, which can be very flattering for women with different body shapes. You can pair them with sandals for a beach-day look or dress them up with heels and jewelry for a more formal occasion.
Work-Appropriate Dresses
Sheath Dresses: For the office, Dress Barn’s plus size sheath dresses are a great choice. Sheath dresses are typically straight-cut and fit closely to the body, ending at or just above the knee. They are often made of structured fabrics like wool blends or ponte knit, which give them a professional look. These dresses come in classic colors such as black, gray, and beige, which are suitable for any work environment. Some sheath dresses may have subtle details like a small ruffle at the neckline or a hidden zipper for a more polished appearance.
Wrap Dresses: Wrap dresses are another excellent option for work. Dress Barn’s plus size wrap dresses are designed to be both stylish and functional. The wrap style creates an illusion of a smaller waist, which is flattering on many body types. They usually have a V-neckline, which can be both professional and feminine. Wrap dresses can be made of cotton, silk-like materials, or jersey. You can pair them with a blazer for a more formal look or wear them on their own for a more relaxed office environment.
Evening and Special Occasion Dresses
Cocktail Dresses: When it comes to cocktail parties or semi-formal events, Dress Barn has a beautiful collection of plus size cocktail dresses. These dresses often feature elegant details such as beading, sequins, or lace. They come in different lengths, with knee-length and midi-length being popular choices. Cocktail dresses at Dress Barn may have different necklines, including halter necks, sweetheart necks, and off-the-shoulder styles. You can choose a dress in a bold color like red or royal blue to make a statement or opt for a more classic black or silver for a timeless look.
Gowns: For more formal events like weddings or galas, Dress Barn offers plus size gowns. These gowns are designed to make you feel like a million dollars. They may be made of luxurious fabrics such as satin, chiffon, or velvet. Gowns can have features like ball-gown skirts for a more dramatic look or mermaid-style skirts that hug the body and flare out at the bottom. Some gowns may also have long trains, adding an extra touch of elegance.
Finding the Right Plus Size Dress for Your Body Shape at Dress Barn
Apple-Shaped Body
If you have an apple-shaped body, where you carry more weight around your midsection, look for dresses at Dress Barn that draw attention away from the stomach area. A-line dresses are a great option as they flare out from the waist, creating a more balanced silhouette. Empire-waist dresses, which have a high-set waistline just below the bust, can also be very flattering. These styles can help to elongate the body and minimize the appearance of a larger midsection. Avoid dresses that are too tight around the middle or have a lot of embellishments in that area.
Pear-Shaped Body
For pear-shaped bodies, where the hips are wider than the shoulders, fit-and-flare dresses from Dress Barn can be a perfect choice. These dresses have a fitted top and a flared skirt, which helps to balance out the proportions. The fitted top draws attention to the upper body, while the flared skirt adds volume to the lower body. You can also consider A-line dresses, which have a similar effect. Darker colors on the bottom half of the dress can help to minimize the appearance of wider hips, while lighter or more patterned colors on the top can draw the eye upwards.
Hourglass-Shaped Body
If you have an hourglass-shaped body with well-defined curves, you can choose from a wide range of dresses at Dress Barn. Bodycon dresses are a great option as they hug your curves, highlighting your figure. Wrap dresses are also very flattering as they accentuate the waist. You can experiment with different lengths and styles, such as a knee-length bodycon dress for a more casual look or a long, flowing wrap dress for a more formal occasion.
Rectangle-Shaped Body
For rectangle-shaped bodies, which lack a defined waist, dresses that create the illusion of curves are ideal. Wrap dresses from Dress Barn are a great choice as they add a diagonal line that breaks up the straight lines of the body and gives the appearance of a waist. Dresses with ruching or gathering, especially around the waist area, can also help create curves. A-line dresses can add some shape to the body by flaring out from the waist.
The Quality of Plus Size Dresses at Dress Barn
Fabric Selection
Dress Barn pays attention to the fabrics used in their plus size dresses. For casual dresses, they often use soft and breathable materials like cotton, which is comfortable to wear all day. In their work-appropriate dresses, they use more structured fabrics such as wool blends and ponte knit to maintain a professional look. For evening and special occasion dresses, luxurious fabrics like satin, chiffon, and velvet are used to create an elegant and glamorous feel. The quality of the fabric also affects how the dress drapes on the body. A well-chosen fabric will fall nicely and enhance the overall look of the dress.
Construction and Stitching
The construction and stitching of the dresses at Dress Barn are generally of good quality. The seams are well-finished, which not only looks neat but also ensures the durability of the dress. In dresses with details like beading or lace, the embellishments are securely attached. This means that you can wear your Dress Barn plus size dress multiple times without having to worry about the details falling off or the seams coming apart.
Shopping for Plus Size Dresses at Dress Barn
In-Store Shopping Experience
Shopping at a Dress Barn store can be a great experience. The stores are usually well-organized, with the plus size section clearly marked. The sales associates are often knowledgeable and helpful. They can assist you in finding the right size and style of dress for your body shape and occasion. You can try on dresses in the fitting rooms, which are usually clean and well-lit. Some stores may also offer additional services such as alterations, which can be very useful if you need a dress to fit perfectly.
Online Shopping
If you prefer to shop online, Dress Barn’s website is user-friendly. You can easily filter the plus size dress collection by size, style, color, and price. The product images are usually clear, and there are detailed descriptions of each dress, including the fabric, care instructions, and sizing information. Online, you can also read customer reviews, which can give you an idea of how the dress fits and looks in real life. Dress Barn often offers online-exclusive deals and discounts, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to shop for plus size dresses.
Sales and Discounts
Dress Barn frequently has sales and discounts, both in-store and online. They may have seasonal sales, clearance events, or special promotions. Signing up for their newsletter or loyalty program can keep you informed about these deals. During sales, you can often find great bargains on plus size dresses. This is a good opportunity to stock up on new dresses for your wardrobe or to splurge on a more expensive, high-quality dress at a discounted price.
Caring for Your Dress Barn Plus Size Dresses
Washing Instructions
Always check the washing instructions on the label of your Dress Barn plus size dress. Different fabrics require different care methods. For example, cotton dresses can usually be machine-washed on a gentle cycle, while silk or satin dresses may need to be dry-cleaned. If a dress has delicate details like beading or lace, it may need to be hand-washed to avoid damaging the embellishments. Following the washing instructions carefully will help to keep your dress looking its best for longer.
Storing Your Dresses
Proper storage is important for maintaining the shape and quality of your dresses. Hang your Dress Barn plus size dresses on sturdy hangers. 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. You can also use garment bags to protect your dresses from dust, especially if you have dresses with special details like lace or beading.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dress Barn offers a diverse and stylish collection of plus size dresses. Whether you’re looking for a casual dress for everyday wear, a work-appropriate outfit, or a show-stopping dress for a special occasion, Dress Barn has something to offer. By understanding their sizing, choosing the right style for your body shape, and taking good care of your dresses, you can build a beautiful plus size wardrobe from Dress Barn. So, go ahead and explore their collection to find the perfect dresses that make you look and feel your best.
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