|
|
|
|
|
|
THE PERFECT FIT: BRIDAL FASHION SHOPPING ADVICE FOR THE PLUS-SIZE WOMAN
David's Bridal Offers Tips on Finding Figure-Flattering
Bridal and Special Occasion Attire
CONSHOHOCKEN, PA - A woman's wedding is the day in her life where she wants to look her very best. However, if a bride-to-be is not a typical sample size, the search for the perfect gown can prove to be challenging. Approximately 68% of women in the United States wear a size 12 or larger (U.S. Census Bureau), yet most in-store "try-on" samples come in size 8.
"Plus-size women frequently have a difficult time shopping for bridal gowns or special occasion attire, as many retailers don't have appropriate sizes in store for them to try, and the selection of fashionable styles is few and far between," says, Geri Brin, Editorial Director of Figure magazine and figuremagazine.com.
So, there clearly is a need for on-trend plus-size offerings that are easily accessible, not only for the bride but for full-figured bridal party members and wedding guests as well.
Addressing this issue, David's Bridal -- the nation's foremost bridal authority approaching 250 stores nationwide -- offers several valuable bridal fashion shopping tips to help full-figured brides-to-be, bridesmaids, mothers-of-the-brides or wedding guests find the perfect gown or dress to complement their personal style:
- Surf The Web - One of the best place to begin the search for a bridal gown or bridal party dress is online. Reviewing websites is a good way to identify what styles you like best and determine if they're available in your size. Try a site such as the recently launched www.davidsbridalwoman.com, where plus-size women can easily review the company's entire selection of plus-size bridal gowns, bridesmaid and special occasion dresses from the comfort of their own home or workplace.
- "Fit" For a Queen - If a collection is based on a "real" plus-size woman's dimensions, the styles are more likely to fit and flatter your body. So look for a retailer that designs with a plus-size woman's unique body shape in mind, rather than just creating offerings that are incrementally bigger than the standard sample size. Be sure to choose a company that uses full-figured fit models and does its homework to assure the best fit. David's Bridal, for example, executed extensive research on hundreds of real customers' measurements to design its "Woman" collection - an exclusive collection of bridal gowns in sizes 14W to 26W.
- Tried and True "Try On" - Special occasion attire, and bridal gowns in particular, are crucial purchases, so do everything you can to help remove the "guess work." Once the upfront research is done, it's essential to try items on in your actual size, rather than merely visualizing what your gown will look like. This is key to understanding what styles best complement your body. To do so, be sure to select a retailer that caries a variety of plus-size offerings in-store so that you can choose the most flattering silhouette for your figure. In addition, try to make an appointment at a bridal store on a weekday. Weekends tend to be busier, so a weekday appointment will increase the likelihood that a consultant will have more time to spend determining what styles are best for your body.
- Flattering, Yet Fashion-Forward Finds - A proper fit should not mean a compromise in style or fashion. Whether looking for a sleek and sophisticated sheath or a princess style ballgown, visit a store that has enough fashion-forward, yet affordable options to satisfy every taste. From a whimsical strapless gown with side ruching and crystal embellishments to a simple A-line gown with an elegant, beaded lace appliqué jacket, the choice should be yours - don't sacrifice style for the perfect fit.
- Beauty is in the Details - While the appearance of a dress is of utmost importance, the construction is just as vital. Look for gowns that are superior both inside and out, boasting high-quality lining and flexible boning to add shape and support. First-rate craftsmanship will help to provide a smooth, flattering silhouette and ensure ease of movement.
- What Lies Beneath: Once the perfect gown or dress is selected, don't forget the importance of quality undergarments. Remember to purchase a supportive bra and/or slip to complement the silhouette of the dress, as proper underpinnings are essential to the overall look. Try to find a store that carries all of these items in one place and be sure to bring these intimate "must-haves" to fittings. A "one-stop-shop" can be a key time saver.
- Heading to the "Alter" - Purchasing the correct size will always minimize the need for major alterations, but most times small "tweaks" are necessary to ensure the best fit. Discuss the way the dress falls on your body with a consultant, but always trust your instincts. Small alterations ahead of time can save hours of adjusting during the big event. Being comfortable is essential to enjoying your wedding day or special occasion, so be sure the dress feels as good as it looks.
Following these helpful tips will not only make the shopping experience more enjoyable, but can help to achieve star style on that special day, no matter what your size.
David's Bridal carries bridal gowns in size 14W-26W, bridesmaids dresses in sizes up to 24, separates in sizes up to 26 and special occasion dresses ranging in size from 18-24. To learn more about David's Bridal Woman, an assortment of on-trend plus-size bridal, bridesmaid and special occasion dresses, log on to www.davidsbridalwoman.com. Call 1-800-480-BRIDE for a David's Bridal store near you.
About David's Bridal:
With more than 50 years of bridal experience, David's Bridal understands the importance of providing brides-to-be with a vast selection of exquisitely crafted dresses, available at affordable prices. Today, with nearly 260 locations nationwide, David's Bridal continues to expand its retail store locations, while maintaining its philosophy of beauty, elegance and quality. To locate a store nearby, consumers can call 1-877-693-BRIDE or visit www.davidsbridal.com.
# # #
|
|
|
|
