Plus Size Gowns
Even the most tomboy of women occasionally like to experience the true feminine delights of a sumptuous evening gown. Throughout history, the long, flowing dress has been a symbol of everything female, full of style and sophistication, melding modesty with a hint of what may be underneath. And fortunately for the fuller figured woman, a full-length gown is one of the most flattering garments you will ever possess.
The trick with plus size gowns is to keep it simple. Great swaths of material may look good on the hanger, but can distract the eye from the good parts of your figure and draw the eye to the bad – something nobody wants. In any plus size gown, one big statement is enough, be it a plunging neckline, intricate beading, sweeping sleeves or a patterned hemline – but one is all it should be. Choose your best asset and emphasize it.
When choosing a plus size gown, bear in mind the cut. In this instance, it’s best to go for retailers that design specifically for plus size women – there’s plenty of such companies in the UK and London. These companies understand the need for design alterations on larger sizes and have in recent years become expert at keeping fashion in mind as well as comfort. With gowns, it is best to always try them on as no real impression can be gained from looking at them on a hanger or in a photograph – if buying online ensure there is a good returns policy in place, and if necessary don’t be afraid to use it.
There are some big donts when it comes to buying a plus size evening gown. Try and avoid ‘cap’ sleeves, as nothing can make an arm look three times bigger than it is like these. In general, sleeveless is a bad idea for a similar reason – but if a sleeveless gown does catch your eye, don’t fret, there are plenty of accessories – such as shrugs – which you can add to the outfit. Don’t assume a plus size gown is the finished ensemble, accessories and additions can make all the difference. The best sleeve choice for a plus size gown is something with three-quarter sleeves, which are extremely flattering. Counter-balance the sometimes stern look of three-quarter sleeves with a flowing skirt that flares from the hips.
Which brings me on to skirts in general. With plus size gowns, the looser the better – try and balance the top half of your body with the bottom. Even a little mechanical help is worth trying, such as half-hoops which help the entire gown hang better and create the classic gown shape. Also decide if you’re going to show off your breasts or your legs; it really is a case of one or the other if you want to avoid looking over-exposed or even a touch trashy. For plus size women, voluptuous breasts are usually in abundance, so invest in a good-fitting bra and show them off with a plunging or scoop neckline.
The true wonder of the plus size gown, however, is in it’s support. At the very least wear a well-fitting bra and knickers, to help create a beautiful silhouette. If possible, go a little more daring and try and corset or specialist control underwear which help again with the genera shape of the gown. Get the foundations right, avoid the pitfalls and dress to suit your shape and you can’t go far wrong.