Defining the Style
Plus size empire line wedding dress – Plus-size empire line wedding dresses offer a beautiful and flattering silhouette for brides of all shapes and sizes. Understanding the key characteristics of this style will help you find the perfect dress for your special day. This section will explore the defining features, flattering aspects, common fabrics, and popular sleeve options for this elegant wedding dress style.
The empire waistline is defined by its high waistline, typically sitting just below the bust. This creates a flowing, A-line skirt that skims over the hips and stomach, gracefully accentuating the upper body while minimizing attention to the lower body. This is particularly beneficial for plus-size figures, as it creates a long, lean line that is both elegant and comfortable.
Flattering Aspects of the Empire Waistline for Plus-Size Figures
The empire waistline is exceptionally flattering for plus-size figures because it emphasizes the narrowest part of the torso, creating a visually lengthening effect. The flowing skirt from the high waistline conceals any perceived imperfections in the midsection and hips, offering a comfortable and elegant alternative to other styles that might feel restrictive or unflattering. This style creates a balanced proportion and a generally more streamlined appearance.
The A-line skirt further contributes to this effect by gently flaring out, creating a soft and romantic silhouette.
Fabric Choices for Plus-Size Empire Line Wedding Dresses
Choosing the right fabric is crucial for both comfort and the overall aesthetic of the dress. Lightweight and flowing fabrics are generally preferred for plus-size empire line wedding dresses. These fabrics drape beautifully, complementing the flowing silhouette of the dress. Common choices include: chiffon, which is lightweight and airy; charmeuse, which has a luxurious sheen; crepe, known for its subtle texture and drape; and silk, offering a luxurious and elegant feel.
Heavier fabrics, while sometimes used in details, are generally avoided for the main body of the dress to maintain comfort and a fluid movement.
Sleeve Styles in Plus-Size Empire Line Wedding Dresses
The sleeve style significantly impacts the overall look of an empire waist wedding dress. Various sleeve options cater to diverse preferences and body types. The following table showcases popular sleeve styles and their visual impact:
| Sleeve Style | Description | Visual Impact | Suitability for Plus-Size Figures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleeveless | No sleeves; often features delicate straps or a halter neckline. | Elegant and sophisticated; showcases the shoulders and arms. | Suitable for those comfortable showing their arms; can be paired with a shawl or wrap for added coverage. |
| Short Sleeves | Sleeves that end above the elbow. | Feminine and flattering; offers modest coverage while maintaining a stylish look. | A versatile option; suitable for most body types. |
| Long Sleeves | Sleeves that extend to the wrists or beyond. | Classic and elegant; ideal for cooler weather or a more formal occasion. | Provides coverage and can be very flattering; lace or sheer fabrics can add a touch of romance. |
| Off-the-Shoulder | Sleeves that drape off the shoulders, often featuring a puff or flutter detail. | Romantic and stylish; highlights the collarbone and shoulders. | Can be very flattering, especially with a well-defined neckline; offers a balance of coverage and style. |
Design Elements and Variations
Choosing the right design elements for your plus-size empire waist wedding dress can significantly enhance its flattering silhouette and reflect your personal style. The interplay of neckline, embellishments, and skirt style creates a unique and beautiful look. Let’s explore the options available to you.
Neckline Choices and Their Impact
The neckline plays a crucial role in framing the face and upper body. A sweetheart neckline, with its heart-shaped curve, adds a touch of romance and accentuates the bust. A V-neck, on the other hand, creates a lengthening effect, drawing the eye downwards and offering a more modern aesthetic. The halter neckline, with its straps around the neck, provides a sleek, sophisticated look and is particularly flattering for those with broad shoulders.
The choice depends entirely on personal preference and body shape; each neckline offers a distinct visual impact.
Embellishments: Adding Sparkle and Texture
Embellishments can transform a simple empire waist gown into a breathtaking masterpiece. Lace, with its delicate patterns and airy texture, adds a touch of femininity and elegance. Beading, whether subtle or extravagant, creates a luxurious and glamorous effect, catching the light beautifully. Embroidery, with its intricate designs, offers a more personalized and artistic touch, allowing for unique and bespoke detailing.
The choice of embellishment depends on the desired level of formality and personal taste. For example, a simple lace overlay might suit a more relaxed beach wedding, while intricate beading would be perfect for a formal ballroom setting.
Skirt Styles and Empire Waist Combinations
The empire waistline pairs beautifully with various skirt styles. An A-line skirt, with its gently flaring silhouette, creates a balanced and flattering look, complementing the empire waist’s natural flow. A ballgown skirt, with its full, voluminous shape, adds a touch of drama and grandeur, creating a truly majestic appearance. While both styles are flattering on plus-size figures, the A-line offers a more streamlined silhouette, while the ballgown creates a more dramatic and romantic look.
The choice depends on the desired level of formality and personal preference.
Plus-Size Empire Waist Wedding Dress Sketches
Sketch 1: Romantic Lace A-Line
Embrace your radiant beauty in a plus size empire line wedding dress; its flowing silhouette celebrates every curve. Remember iconic style moments like Pamela Anderson’s wedding dress choices, for inspiration, check out pamela anderson wedding dress for a glimpse into bold bridal fashion. Ultimately, your plus size empire line wedding dress should reflect your unique confidence and joy, making you feel like the queen you are.
This design features a soft, flowing A-line skirt crafted from ivory chantilly lace. The neckline is a delicate sweetheart, subtly emphasizing the bust. Delicate floral embroidery, echoing the lace pattern, is scattered across the bodice and gently trails down the skirt, adding a touch of whimsy and romance. The overall effect is light, airy, and effortlessly elegant.
Sketch 2: Sleek V-Neck Ballgown
This design showcases a dramatic ballgown skirt made from luxurious satin, creating a stunning silhouette. A deep V-neckline elongates the torso and adds a touch of modern sophistication. The bodice is adorned with subtle beading along the neckline and waistline, adding a touch of sparkle without overwhelming the overall design. The satin’s smooth texture and the clean lines of the V-neck create a refined and glamorous look.
Sketch 3: Modern Halter Neck A-Line
This design features a sleek A-line skirt crafted from a flowing crepe fabric. A halter neckline adds a touch of modern elegance and is particularly flattering for those with broad shoulders. The bodice is kept relatively simple, with subtle embroidery along the neckline and a delicate satin sash tying at the waist. The clean lines and modern silhouette create a chic and sophisticated look, perfect for a contemporary wedding.
Finding the Perfect Fit and Fabric
Choosing the right size and fabric for your plus-size empire waist wedding dress is crucial for ensuring both comfort and a flattering silhouette. The empire waistline, which sits just below the bust, is inherently forgiving, but proper fitting and fabric selection will maximize its advantages. Remember that finding the perfect fit often involves professional alterations, so budget for this essential step.
Size and Fit Considerations for Plus-Size Empire Line Dresses
Accurate measurements are paramount. Avoid solely relying on standard size charts; instead, schedule a consultation with a bridal specialist who can take your measurements accurately. This allows for a more precise fit, accommodating your unique body shape. Pay close attention to the bust, waist, and hip measurements, as these will be key in determining the right size.
A dress that is too tight will be uncomfortable and unflattering, while one that is too loose will lack definition. Consider ordering a sample size if possible to assess the fit before committing to a custom-made or final purchase. Remember that alterations are often necessary, even with a well-fitting sample, to achieve the perfect look.
Fabric Choice for Comfort and Silhouette
The fabric you choose significantly impacts the overall look and feel of your dress. Heavier fabrics can weigh down the empire waistline, detracting from its flattering effect, while lighter fabrics may lack structure and drape poorly. The fabric should complement your body type and the overall aesthetic of the wedding. A smooth, flowing fabric will emphasize the soft, romantic lines of an empire waist dress, while a structured fabric might create a more defined silhouette.
Consider the season and climate when making your selection.
Addressing Common Fabric Challenges
Certain fabrics present challenges, particularly for plus-size dresses. Wrinkling is a common concern, especially with delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon. Choosing fabrics with a higher wrinkle resistance, such as crepe or satin, can mitigate this issue. Transparency is another potential problem; lining is crucial for many fabrics to prevent unwanted sheerness. Always check the fabric’s opacity before purchasing.
If a fabric is prone to wrinkling, steam or press it carefully before the wedding to ensure a smooth, polished look.
Suitable Fabrics for Plus-Size Empire Waist Wedding Dresses, Plus size empire line wedding dress
Choosing the right fabric is essential for both comfort and aesthetic appeal. Consider the drape and seasonal suitability of each option.
- Crepe: A versatile fabric with a slightly textured surface, crepe offers excellent drape and wrinkle resistance. Suitable for all seasons.
- Satin: Known for its luxurious sheen and smooth texture, satin drapes beautifully and is ideal for creating a sleek silhouette. Best suited for warmer months, as it can be quite warm.
- Charmeuse: A luxurious silk fabric with a subtle sheen and excellent drape, charmeuse is a beautiful choice for a romantic wedding dress. However, it is prone to wrinkling and is best suited for warmer months.
- Mikado: A heavier, more structured fabric, Mikado is ideal for creating a defined silhouette. It is less prone to wrinkling than other fabrics but can be less comfortable in warmer weather.
- Lace (with lining): Lace can add a touch of elegance and romance to an empire waist dress, but it must be lined to avoid transparency. The weight of the lace and lining should be considered for seasonal appropriateness.
Accessories and Styling: Plus Size Empire Line Wedding Dress
Choosing the right accessories and styling techniques can elevate your plus-size empire waist wedding dress, creating a truly unforgettable look. The key is to balance elegance with comfort and to highlight your best features. Consider the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for – romantic, modern, classic, or bohemian – when selecting your accessories and styling choices. This will help you create a cohesive and stunning bridal ensemble.
Accessory Suggestions for Plus-Size Empire Line Wedding Dresses
The empire waistline naturally draws attention upwards, so accessories should complement this silhouette. Delicate necklaces that sit just above the bustline can enhance the neckline beautifully. Statement earrings can add a touch of glamour without overwhelming the dress. A simple, elegant veil, perhaps a birdcage veil or a delicate chapel-length veil, will add a touch of romance.
Choose shoes that are comfortable and supportive, perhaps elegant heels or stylish wedges, depending on your personal preference and the formality of the event. Avoid overly bulky or distracting accessories that might compete with the dress’s design. A simple clutch or a small handbag will suffice for carrying essentials.
Hairstyle Options and Neckline Suitability
Choosing the right hairstyle is crucial in complementing your empire waist dress and neckline. Consider the neckline of your dress when selecting your hairstyle to create a balanced and harmonious look.
| Hairstyle | Sweetheart Neckline | V-Neckline | Strapless Neckline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loose, Romantic Updo | Highly Suitable: Soft curls cascading around the face complement the sweetheart neckline’s softness. | Suitable: The updo keeps the focus on the neckline’s shape. | Suitable: A romantic updo adds elegance and balances the strapless neckline. |
| Sleek Low Bun | Suitable: A sleek bun provides a sophisticated contrast to the romantic sweetheart neckline. | Highly Suitable: The clean lines of the bun enhance the V-neck’s elegance. | Suitable: A sleek bun offers a modern and chic look. |
| Half-Up, Half-Down | Suitable: This style works well, especially with soft waves. | Suitable: A versatile option that suits most V-neck styles. | Highly Suitable: Allows for face-framing tendrils while keeping hair away from the shoulders. |
| Long, Flowing Waves | Suitable: Adds to the overall romantic feel, but might obscure the neckline slightly. | Suitable: Works well, especially if styled to frame the face. | Suitable: A classic and timeless choice. |
Styling for Different Body Types
The empire waistline is generally flattering on most body types. However, slight adjustments in styling can further enhance your figure. For example, a bride with a larger bust might choose a dress with wider straps or a higher neckline to provide more support and balance. A bride with a more petite frame might opt for a lighter fabric and accessories to avoid overwhelming her figure.
A bride with a curvier figure might choose a dress with more structure to accentuate her waistline. Ultimately, the key is to choose a dress that fits comfortably and accentuates your best features.
Makeup Styles to Enhance the Overall Look
Makeup should complement the overall aesthetic of your wedding dress and personal style. A classic bridal look might involve a soft, dewy base, rosy cheeks, and a neutral lip color. This creates a timeless and elegant look that suits most empire waist dresses. A more dramatic look could incorporate smoky eyes and a bolder lip color for a more modern and glamorous feel.
For a romantic look, focus on soft, blended eyeshadows in shades of pink and peach, paired with a subtle blush and a nude or rose-toned lipstick. Remember to use a setting spray to ensure your makeup lasts throughout the day.
Where to Find Plus-Size Empire Line Wedding Dresses
Source: made-in-china.com
Finding the perfect plus-size empire line wedding dress requires a strategic approach. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the personalized experience of a brick-and-mortar store, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each will help you make an informed decision. Knowing reputable brands and utilizing smart shopping strategies will ensure you find a dress that reflects your style and budget.
Online Versus In-Store Shopping
Shopping for a wedding dress online offers unparalleled convenience and access to a wider selection of styles and sizes, often at more competitive prices. However, you sacrifice the ability to try on the dress before purchasing, potentially leading to alterations or the need for returns. In-store shopping provides the opportunity for personal consultations with stylists, immediate feedback on fit and style, and the reassurance of physically examining the dress’s quality.
However, in-store options might be more limited, and prices may be higher. Weighing these factors against your personal preferences and priorities is key.
Reputable Brands and Designers
Several reputable brands and designers cater specifically to plus-size brides, offering stunning empire line wedding dresses. These brands often prioritize inclusivity and body positivity, ensuring a wide range of sizes and styles. Examples include (but are not limited to) ASOS Curve, Torrid, and various designers who showcase plus-size models in their bridal collections. Researching designers who actively promote body diversity and inclusivity is a great starting point.
Look for brands that offer detailed size charts and customer reviews to gauge the accuracy of sizing and the quality of their garments.
Finding Affordable Options
Finding an affordable plus-size empire line wedding dress doesn’t mean compromising on quality or style. Consider shopping during off-season sales, exploring sample sales, or renting a dress instead of buying one. Many bridal boutiques offer sample sales with significant discounts on previous season’s dresses. Online marketplaces can also offer budget-friendly options, but thorough research and careful examination of seller reviews are crucial to avoid potential disappointments.
Remember, a beautiful dress doesn’t need to break the bank.
Resources for Finding Plus-Size Empire Line Wedding Dresses
A combination of online and in-store options offers the best approach to finding your perfect dress. To assist in your search, consider the following resources:
- Online Retailers: ASOS Curve, Nordstrom, BHLDN, David’s Bridal (check their plus-size offerings), and various online marketplaces such as Etsy.
- Bridal Boutiques: Search locally for boutiques that specifically mention plus-size options or have a wide range of sizes. Contact boutiques beforehand to inquire about their plus-size selection and appointment availability.
- Specialty Plus-Size Boutiques: Some boutiques specialize exclusively in plus-size bridal wear, offering expert advice and a curated selection of dresses.
Essential Questionnaire
Can I alter a plus-size empire line wedding dress?
Yes, alterations are common and often necessary to achieve the perfect fit. A skilled seamstress can adjust the length, bodice, and other elements to ensure a flattering and comfortable silhouette.
What undergarments should I wear with an empire waist dress?
A smoothing slip or shapewear that provides gentle support and minimizes any visible lines under the dress is recommended. Avoid anything too bulky or restrictive.
How much should I expect to spend on a plus-size empire line wedding dress?
Prices vary widely depending on the designer, fabric, and embellishments. It’s best to set a budget beforehand and explore options within your price range.
Where can I find plus-size wedding dress samples to try on?
Many bridal boutiques carry plus-size samples, but it’s always advisable to call ahead and confirm their availability. Online retailers may also offer virtual consultations or sample services.