Plus Size Formals
From LoveToKnow Plussize
Whether for holiday parties, prom, weddings or Oscar night, stylish full-figured women need plus size formals that are elegant and flattering. Fortunately, the fashion industry is finally aware of the demand and has stepped up with great dresses and suits in a range of sizes and styles.
An Array of Plus Size Formals
Not so long ago, women looking for formal wear in larger sizes were stuck with suits studded with rhinestones or severe dresses that were designed to draw as little attention to the wearer as possible. If a fashionable woman of size of any age wanted something that was actually fun and flattering to wear, she had to resort to making it herself or having it made.
These days, it’s possible to get a wide range of great clothes for teens, younger women and older women alike that are sophisticated, sexy or whatever you want them to be. And while specialty outlets for the full figured woman have always existed, the advent of online shopping makes them considerably easier to access. You can shop specifically for your occasion, age and desired style, making browsing faster and more fun.
Online Plus Size Shops
While many shops and designers offer clothes in larger sizes, it can be preferable to shop somewhere that specializes in plus size clothing. That way, you know that everything on offer has been designed specifically with you in mind.
One such shop is Sydney’s Closet, whose motto is “We Size Up Glamour.” You can choose from a number of categories and look in the collection for such things as little black dresses (which every woman must have), dresses from sizes 28-44, dresses with sleeves, maternity dresses and pantsuits. They have hundreds of styles to choose from.
Igigi is one of the best sources for fabulous plus size formals. They specialize in clothes for glamorous grown-up women who want to look absolutely amazing at all times. For a woman who might have thought her size would keep her from looking sexy and sophisticated, this is the shop to browse. The prices are reasonable and the choices extensive.
Vintage Formalwear
There’s nothing like a vintage – or reproduction – gown to make a woman feel timelessly elegant. Cuts, fabrics and details used in vintage clothing set them apart. Plus size women often despair of finding a great vintage dress, but it’s actually easier than one would think, especially with so many online sources. Because a formal dress was only worn on occasion, more of them have survived than daywear. Sizing was different, so you have to rely on measurements to choose an item.
Clothes from the 1930s and 1940s are particularly flattering because they were cut on the bias, so that they fall well over the body and hug curves. If you wear the right foundation garments – a good push-up bra is usually a must – you will look amazing.
Obviously, searching for a vintage formal will take more time and effort, so you have to plan ahead. Scour such online resources as Ballyhoo Vintage, which has a section specifically for women of size and lists all the measurements up front.
If you want the vintage look without the shopping fuss, try Vintage Style Clothing, which has dresses inspired from the full-figure flattering Edwardian era, or Stop Staring Clothing, which focuses more on the 1940s and 1950s and has the extra advantage of being able to do some custom tailoring if you need adjustments in the bust or waist.
Details Count
Don’t forget that what makes a formal outfit really special are the details. You may not generally like shapewear, but even a modern dress usually hangs better over a supportive bra and smoothing undergarment. You also want to take time to find the right shoes and finishing touches that make for a complete outfit. On a night of glamour, you want everything to be fairy-tale perfect.
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This page has been accessed 5,569 times. This page was last modified 15:32, 15 November 2008.
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