If you’re looking for a plus size formal dress, you might feel overwhelmed by the options available. There are so many styles, colors, fabrics and lengths to choose from, and you want to find the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. How do you narrow down your choices and pick the best dress for your body type, personality and occasion? Here are some tips to help you out.

Know your measurements

Before you start browsing for dresses, it’s important to know your exact measurements. This will help you find the right size and fit for your dress. You can measure yourself at home with a tape measure, or go to a professional tailor or seamstress for more accuracy. You should measure your bust, waist, hips and height, and write them down somewhere. You can also use online size charts or calculators to convert your measurements into standard sizes.

Choose a flattering silhouette

The next step is to choose a dress silhouette that flatters your curves and enhances your best features. There are different types of dress silhouettes, such as A-line, empire waist, wrap, sheath, mermaid and ball gown. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages for different body shapes. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose:

• A-line dresses have a fitted bodice and a flared skirt that creates an A shape. They are great for balancing out a pear-shaped body, or adding some volume to a straight body.
• Empire waist dresses have a high waistline that sits just below the bust, and a loose-fitting skirt that flows down to the floor. They are ideal for apple-shaped bodies, as they draw attention to the bust and hide the tummy area.
• Wrap dresses have a V-neckline and a wrap-around style that ties at the waist. They are perfect for hourglass-shaped bodies, as they accentuate the waist and bust, and create a slimming effect.
• Sheath dresses have a straight-cut style that hugs the body from the shoulders to the hem. They are suitable for rectangle-shaped bodies, as they create some curves and show off the legs.
• Mermaid dresses have a fitted bodice and a flared skirt that starts at the knees or lower. They are best for inverted triangle-shaped bodies, as they add some volume to the hips and balance out the shoulders.
• Ball gown dresses have a fitted bodice and a voluminous skirt that reaches the floor. They are good for any body shape, as they create a dramatic and elegant look.

Pick a color that suits you

The color of your dress can make a big difference in how you look and feel. You want to pick a color that complements your skin tone, hair color and eye color, and also matches the mood and theme of the occasion. Here are some tips to help you pick the right color:

• If you have a warm skin tone, you can go for colors that have yellow, orange or red undertones, such as coral, peach, gold, olive, brown or burgundy.
• If you have a cool skin tone, you can go for colors that have blue, purple or green undertones, such as pink, lavender, silver, blue, mint or navy.
• If you have a neutral skin tone, you can go for colors that are neither too warm nor too cool, such as beige, ivory, champagne, gray or black.
• If you have light hair and eyes, you can go for colors that contrast with your features, such as dark or bright colors.
• If you have dark hair and eyes, you can go for colors that harmonize with your features, such as light or pastel colors.

Accessorize wisely

The final touch to your plus size formal dress is the accessories. You want to choose accessories that complement your dress and your personal style, without overpowering or clashing with them. Here are some tips to help you accessorize wisely:

• Choose jewelry that matches the neckline and color of your dress. For example, if you have a V-neckline, you can wear a pendant necklace or drop earrings. If you have a strapless dress, you can wear a statement necklace or chandelier earrings. If you have a red dress, you can wear gold or silver jewelry.
• Choose shoes that match the length and style of your dress. For example, if you have a long dress, you can wear heels or flats that are comfortable and not too flashy. If you have a short dress, you can wear heels or sandals that are elegant and show off your legs.
• Choose a clutch or purse that matches the color and fabric of your dress. For example, if you have a satin dress, you can wear a satin clutch or purse. If you have a lace dress, you can wear a lace clutch or purse. Avoid carrying a large or bulky bag that will distract from your dress.

I hope this blog post helped you find the perfect plus size formal dress for your special occasion. Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. You are beautiful and deserve to shine! 💖