shoes to wear with long red dress

SAY YES TO THE PLUS SIZE WEDDING DRESS

With warm weather approaching, wedding season is just around the corner, bringing with it the excitement of planning the big day. From choosing the perfect venue and bridal party to selecting decorations and transportation, every detail matters—but the true centerpiece of the event is the wedding dress.

For plus-size brides, finding the perfect gown can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dreaming of a sweetheart neckline, an elegant A-line, a grand ball gown, or a timeless lace dress, the search for both the right fit and a boutique that celebrates your curves can be challenging.

We’ve all heard the frustrating stories of brides feeling pressured to lose weight just to fit into a dress, sometimes only to find it no longer fits weeks later. To make things even more difficult, the options for plus-size bridal designs are still limited.

But don’t worry—we’re here to help! Ready to find the dress of your dreams? Let’s get started!

DEFINE YOUR STYLE & THEME

Take some time to research wedding dress styles that match your personality and vision. Consider the venue—what works for a beach wedding may not suit an indoor ballroom setting. When you find dresses you love, make a note of the designer and style number for reference.

FIND PLUS-SIZE BRIDAL BOUTIQUES

Locate bridal shops in your area that cater to plus-size brides and call ahead to check their selection. Ask if they carry sample dresses in extended sizes so you can try them on comfortably.

KNOW YOUR BODY TYPE

Understanding what styles flatter your figure can make the search easier. A-line dresses offer a timeless, curve-enhancing fit, while ball gowns add volume and drama. Mermaid silhouettes combine both, hugging your curves before flaring out for a bold, elegant look.

SET A REALISTIC BUDGET

Falling in love with a dress far beyond your price range can be discouraging. Determine your budget beforehand and explore affordable options—you’d be surprised at how many gorgeous plus-size gowns are available at various price points.

GIVE YOURSELF TIME

Finding the dress is a process. Be patient with yourself and allow enough time for browsing, fittings, and alterations.

CHOOSE YOUR SHOPPING SQUAD WISELY

While it’s great to have support, too many opinions can be overwhelming. Bring a trusted group who understands your vision and will prioritize what makes you feel beautiful.

WEAR THE RIGHT UNDERGARMENTS

Bring a strapless bra, shapewear, and any other foundation pieces you plan to wear on your wedding day. Wearing the right undergarments (and even your wedding shoes) can give you a better idea of how the dress will truly look and feel.

These are just a few tips to help you on your journey to finding the perfect plus-size wedding dress! Do you have any advice to share? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

5 TIPS FOR STYLING LONG SKIRTS TO LOOK CHIC, NOT FRUMPY

Forget the mini skirt—let’s dive into the best ways to style a long skirt without looking frumpy! I’ve gathered my top expert tips to help you wear maxi skirts in a way that flatters every body type and adds a chic, polished touch to your look.

I think long skirts deserve a spot in every woman’s wardrobe, right alongside a classic black pencil skirt. Not only are they incredibly versatile—easy to style for different occasions—but they’re also SO comfortable, making them a practical choice that doesn’t compromise on style.

Long skirts are a true wardrobe essential, especially if you’re building a mom capsule wardrobe. Their versatility and ease of wear make them a “win-win” addition you’ll reach for again and again.

Worried that all that extra length and fabric might end up looking frumpy instead of fabulous?

Here are my top tips for styling long skirts to keep your look polished and modern, plus some outfit inspiration from my own favorite long skirt looks that made me feel confident and comfortable!

TIP #1 BE AWARE OF PROPORTIONS

The secret to styling a long maxi skirt without looking frumpy lies in balancing proportions. Since the skirt’s length adds volume, opt for a top that accentuates your waist and draws the eye upward. This creates a balanced silhouette that elongates your overall look and adds a touch of elegance.

One of my favorite ways to achieve this balanced look is with a puff-sleeved top. The exaggerated shoulders create a flattering contrast, enhancing the illusion of a smaller waist and giving that coveted hourglass silhouette.

Another great option is pairing your maxi skirt with a more form-fitting top. A fitted top balances out the flowy skirt, ensuring that your curves aren’t lost under layers of fabric and keeping your overall shape defined and stylish.

TIP #2 CINCH THE WAIST

The golden rule for wearing a long skirt without looking frumpy is to cinch in your waist! Make sure the skirt sits at your natural waistline to define your curves and prevent your shape from getting lost in the fabric. This simple adjustment adds structure to your outfit and enhances your silhouette.

There are lots of ways that you can cinch in your waist when wearing a longer skirt!

  • Using a belt to accentuate your waist
  • Knotting your shirt to that it sits just at the top of the skirt
  • Wear a form fitting top pair with a higher waisted maxi skirt
  • Tucking in an oversized sweater or blouse to show off the waist
  • Wear a crop top paired with a high waisted maxi skirt

TIP #3 TUCK IT IN

To maintain balanced proportions and cinch your waist, as mentioned in the previous tips, try tucking in your flowy blouses or oversized sweaters. This will complement the long length of your skirt and highlight your shape.

For a more formal look, pair a pullover sweater with a pleated maxi skirt. Or, if you prefer a streamlined look, tuck your sweater into your bra. This gives the illusion of a tucked-in style without adding any extra bulk around the waistline.

TIP #4 ADD HEIGHT

Another great tip for styling long skirts is to choose shoes with height! Whether you go for high heels or knee-high boots with a taller shaft, the added height helps create a long, lean silhouette and gives you a super flattering look. The vertical lines from the boots or heels will elongate your legs and complement the flow of the skirt.

As someone who’s petite, I always opt for shoes with a bit of a heel—it instantly elevates my look and helps me feel longer and leaner. This is a great option if you’re on the shorter side or dressing up for a formal event. A slight heel not only adds height but also gives your outfit a more polished, stylish feel, making the whole look come together effortlessly.

TIP #5 PLAY WITH PATTERNS

Any look can be instantly more flattering if the patterns enhance your silhouette! Try pairing a patterned top with a solid-colored maxi skirt to draw the eye upwards, or opt for vertical pleats that create a longer, leaner appearance. This small detail makes a big impact, transforming your look from frumpy to fabulous.

You can also mix textures for an added level of style and sophistication! For example, I paired a silky maxi skirt with a sheer polka dot bodysuit. The mix of textures and patterns not only added visual interest but also created a flattering, chic outfit perfect for a dressier event.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, styling a long skirt doesn’t have to be intimidating or frumpy. By focusing on proportion, cinching your waist, choosing shoes with height, and mixing patterns or textures, you can create a flattering, chic look that works for any occasion. Whether you’re aiming for a casual day out or dressing up for a formal event, these tips will help you wear long skirts with confidence, enhancing your silhouette and keeping you comfortable and stylish!