How to Find the Perfect Plus Size Wedding Gown

Tom Corbett/BRIDES BRIDES magazine

Girls with major curves can score a flattering high-fashion frock (really!) if they shop smart.

Retail Therapy
Lori Allen of Atlanta's Bridals by Lori offers her tips for a positive salon experience.

Q: Carrying plus-size samples hasn't always been a priority for salons. Is that changing?
A: While it's still not the industry norm, more salons-including ours-now carry samples in bigger sizes. The issue is that most can't afford to buy more than one sample of a dress, and that sample is usually an 8 or a 10.

Q: So how can a plus-size bride find a dress?
A: By doing her homework. She should look on the websites of her favorite designers to find out which make plus-size gowns. Next, she should call salons to ask whether they carry these designers, and how many plus-size samples they have in-store, before booking an appointment.

Q: What's the biggest size that samples come in?
A: Our largest-size gown is a 28, and we carry all the major designers, like Rivini, Amsale, and Lazaro, in plus.

Q: Any advice for a plus girl in the fitting room?
A: Be open to trying on different looks. Even if the store sample is way too small, the consultant can clip it onto your body to give you a sense of how it will look.

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