Expert: Nafeesah Abdullah - 8/4/2008

Question
Hi Nafaeesah:

I'm  looking for the perfect gown; I want something simple, but elegant, and geared for an outdoor wedding.  I'm plus-sized (look like Queen Latifah - but pear shaped, she's an apple), and I want to look beautiful, but not overdone.

Any ideas?

Answer
In today's fashion plus size brides are outdoing the normal size women in style and flair which should be a symbol of accepting people of all sizes as long as they are healthy.

I was doing some research on plus size bridal fashions and I know what you're talking about since I am an apple shape, but the only place I would think that would cater to plus size brides would be David's Bridal because they can cater to low key to the most extravagant.

Another place I can think of is Torrid since they have dresses for plus size women 13-26 and they have a line of bridal dresses, but they're only available online at Torrid.com and click on the shop by lifestyle link and they have about 4 different styles of dresses that you can choose from.

Ashley Stewart, Avenue, and Lane Bryant three other plus size stores don't carry bridal gowns for plus size women which I feel is disappointing because there are some beautiful plus size women out here who deserve to look their best on their wedding day in the gown of their dreams.

What you want is something that will compliment your unique curves and something that isnt like you said overdone. Look at the website I suggested and see if what you're looking is there and still check David's Bridal as well since I know they do up to size 26 for dresses. Take a look at both and see if what they have meets your specifications.