Summer Plus Size Formal Dress

A summer plus size formal dress is the perfect attire to wear to summer weddings and other dressy events during this season.

Summer formals differ markedly from winter formals. What things should you look for when shopping for formal dresses made for summer occasions?

• Color: When shopping for summer wear, think "light." You want colors such as pink, lavender, yellow, pale blue, seafoam green, white, beige and rose instead of deep colors. You don't have to stick with pastels if they don't flatter you, but leave the dark shades for cold weather wear.
• Material: A summer plus size formal dress should be made of a lightweight, floaty material like chiffon, silk or taffeta. Velvet and heavy silk should be saved for fall and winter.
• Length: Long, floor-length gowns are what many women think of when they hear the term "formal," but modern style isn't as strict. Tea length formals, which hit mid-calf, and even some knee-length dresses will pass as dressy attire. You don't want to sit at a summer garden wedding in a sweeping, floor-length dress; go for something shorter and you'll be much more comfortable and fit in with the season.

For the perfect summertime look, don't forget the right accessories to complete your ensemble:

• Coverups: Although it's hot outside, if you're attending an indoor event, you may want a light coverup to keep air conditioning off your shoulders. Gauzy shawls are stylish accessories to have on hand.

• Shoes: Stick to high-heeled dressy sandals or open-toed pumps to match your summer formal dress.

• Jewelry: Choose light pieces that complement your look well, such as diamonds, rhinestones and opals. Avoid chunky jewels and heavy pieces.

• Purses: Clutch style handbags are great accessories for formal wear. You can choose a subtle bag in pale satin, or go for a sequin-adorned purse. Make sure you select the right size handbag for your plus size frame; don't be afraid to choose a larger-size clutch as it will probably balance out your look better than a purse that's very tiny.

When looking for that perfect formal dress for you, choose styles that flatter your body type. Some of the most complementary aspects that look good on just about any woman include:

• V-necks: V-necklines lengthen, elongate and slim the body, so they work well for making women appear taller and slimmer.

• A-line skirts: This flattering cut hides wide hips and thighs. When cut well, the skirt floats away from the body.

• Empire waists: The high waist of an empire dress helps to camouflage a tummy and hips.

• Asymmetrical details: Soft ruffles that float in diagonal lines on a long skirt add just the right amount of visual interest.

• Wide straps: In general, wider straps look better on full-figured women than spaghetti straps. Thick straps paired with a V-neckline is a good look for most plus size women.

Look for summer formal dresses to hit department stores during the spring and early summer seasons. You can shop in your favorite plus size boutique, as well as these online retailers:

• Anna Brooks
• The Rose
• Igigi
• Only Gowns

Whatever the occasion, choosing a summer formal dress and accessories should be fun, especially if you don't often get to dress up. By making the right choices in dress and shoe styles, you'll be elegant and perfectly fashionable for that next warm weather event that calls for fancy attire.

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