Find the Perfect Dress: Advice for Curvy Brides

Here at Ivory & Beau, we make it our mission to make the process of finding the dress a fun and stress free process for all brides. Recently, we’ve started to expand our inventory to include a wider selection of gowns for curvy brides, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome lovely ladies of all shapes and sizes into our happy little bridal family. Today, we’ve got some tips for curvy brides (not to mention some drop dead gorgeous shots of our beautiful friend of the shop, @crystalskyv--courtesy of Danielle George Photography). 

Leave time for alterations. 

While this advice is true for any bride, it can be especially important for plus-sized gals. It’s not just about the time it takes for your dress order to come in, but the time it takes for your dress to be fitted perfectly to your tastes. Remember, if there is anything about the dress that you don’t like, from the fit to the sleeves, you can probably have it customized (just be sure to ask first)! 

Take advantage of your consultant’s expertise.

We do this day in and day out. It’s our passion, so we make it our first priority to be able to answer every and any question you may have. Your concerns are our concerns. Don’t be afraid to let us know what makes you feel confident and what makes you feel uncomfortable. With your help, we’ll be able to do our best to find a dress that truly makes you shine. 

Don’t take shit from anyone.

Remember, this is supposed to be a fun experience. If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable for even a second, don’t hesitate to tell them to hit the road. The only opinion that matters at the end of the day is yours--forget what anyone else has to say. Speaking of which...

You aren’t limited to what people on the internet say is flattering. 

Let’s be real, ladies… you should pick a wedding dress that makes you feel confident and happy, not what some stranger on the web decided is “right” for you--whatever that means.

That being said, if you want advice, get it from a knowledgeable source.

We love this piece from a “personal stylist, plus-size fashion connoisseur, and your new best friend” Whitney Brown on the Maggie Sottero blog. Brown offers insight into picking the perfect Maggie based on your specific needs, and given that we carry a few of these gowns, we couldn’t agree more! 

More of Brown’s advice we love:

  • Get good support--and from more than your entourage. If it’s something you’re interested in, consider bringing along comfortable undergarments that will give you a better idea of the shape of your gown. 

  • Try different styles. You never know what you might like best--what you find might just surprise you! 

  • Be aware of your budget--especially if you plan on customizing your dress. Sleeves, neckline adjustments, and additional lace can add up quickly. Try to keep this in mind as you’re placing your final order. 

At the end of the day, this whole experience should be fun and comfortable for you. Make yourself your priority--the rest will fall into place. 

{Vendor Credits} Photography: Danielle George Photography // Gowns: Ivory & Beau // Venue: The Mansion on Forsyth