Plus Size Bridal Gowns - Fit and Foundation

Once you find the plus size wedding gown of your dreams, don't blow it by skimping on alterations and foundation garments. Even if the dress 'fits' (which it should - without dieting!), it will need some adjustments to make sure that it's perfectly matched to your body. Small lifts, nips and tucks in the gown will take your dress from 'fine' to 'fabulous!'

Purchase your foundation garments prior to your first fitting with a seamstress to ensure a superior fit. I recommend going to a specialty bra shop. The sales associates will be able to help you choose the right size and style and get you into these tricky underthings. Don't get talked into something that's seriously uncomfortable, but do realize that shaping, especially in the bust, in crucial to your gown fitting correctly. Gowns tend to be heavy so don't be surprised if they suggest a cup that's more armorific than what you'd wear on a daily basis.

Plus Size Bras and Underwear - Special or Everyday

Figleaves.com is a treasure trove of undergarments for 'plus size' women. Many comfortable, functional and even beautiful options are to be found. I searched for my size and found this sweet Triumph underwire bra with available matching brief. I found many more options, and a lot were prettier than I could have hoped for. For everyday options, I like the Bali no-poke wire bra and the Wacoal full figure underwire bra.

Full Figure Strapless - Where to Shop for Bras

All of this talk about special occasion dresses has got us thinking about bras. If you're a 'plus size' then undoubtedly, bra shopping poses a special challenge for you, especially where special occasion bras are concerned. We searched high and low, and found this Fantasie Smoothing Strapless Bra at Bare Necessities. This particular bra is available in sizes 30DD to 42D, while the site offers bras up to 56H. (You can even shop by size, avoiding the heartache of seeing a bra that you adore only to find out that it doesn't come in your size. Brilliant!) The shaped, underwire cups of this bra are lined for shape and support, so you'll get the smooth and sleek silhouette that you desire without added bulk. 3 row, 3 column hook closures and boning provide stability. This bra also converts to halter or criss-cross for additional flexibility.