For too long, plus size brides have felt overlooked in the wedding fashion industry—but that has changed dramatically. Nowadays, there is a plethora of inclusive choices available, and if you’re on the hunt for wedding dresses in sizes 30 and above, you deserve to feel empowered, acknowledged, and celebrated throughout your journey. Whether your aesthetic leans towards romantic, modern, glamorous, or bohemian, there truly is a gown that will make you feel like the most radiant version of yourself as you walk down the aisle. Let’s dive deeper into this topic—with valuable tips, designers to consider, and effective shopping strategies.
Welcome to Plus Size Bridal Week at The Curvy Fashionista, where our mission is to assist you in planning your dream wedding day!
Discover the Best Places to Shop for Wedding Dresses in Size 30 and Up
One significant hurdle that brides encounter when searching for gowns above a size 28 is accessing appropriate options. Many bridal boutiques still lack extended sample sizes, making preliminary research essential. Here are some fantastic shopping avenues to explore:
- Specialty Bridal Boutiques: Seek out stores that prioritize plus-size wedding dresses, treating them as a main offering rather than an afterthought. Stores like Lovely Bride, Curve Bridal Collective, and Bombshell Bridal specialize in inclusive sizing and provide sample gowns you can actually try on.
- Online Retailers: Websites such as David’s Bridal, Azazie, and Kiyonna boast a selection of wedding dresses size 30+, complete with customer reviews, try-at-home options, and flexible return policies to ensure a stress-free shopping experience.
- Custom Designers: Consider independent designers who craft made-to-measure gowns. Brands like Christian Omeshun, Loulette Bride, and Bridal Babes focus on contemporary, body-positive designs that embrace the curves of plus-size brides.
Pro tip: When scheduling bridal appointments, always inquire about the sizes available for trying on—and don’t hesitate to walk away from shops that do not prioritize inclusivity.
Essential Fit Tips for Wedding Dresses Size 30 and Above
Let’s discuss fit, as it is crucial to how you will ultimately feel in your wedding gown. Here are some key points to consider when shopping:
- Structure is Your Best Friend: Look for dresses that feature boning, built-in support, or corset backs, as they provide shaping and adjustability. For those who are fuller-busted or have an apple shape, this can enhance comfort and control.
- Don’t Fixate on Sizing: Bridal sizing tends to run small. A size 30 in bridal can significantly differ from your street size—try not to feel discouraged. The most important factor is how you feel, rather than what number appears on the tag.
- Choose the Right Undergarments: Bring a well-fitted bra or shapewear to your fittings. These items can significantly influence how a gown fits, particularly for styles like mermaid or fit-and-flare.
- Embrace Tailoring: Even dresses off the rack can be transformed with expert alterations. Consider investing in a tailor who specializes in plus-size bodies; they will know how to adjust for curves while maintaining the integrity of the dress.
Flattering Styles for Size 30+ Brides to Consider
There is no universal style rule that applies here—your ideal dress is all about what you love. Nevertheless, here are some silhouettes and design elements that tend to enhance fuller figures beautifully:
- A-line Gowns: Universally flattering, this style flows gracefully from the waist, providing subtle structure without clinging to the body.
- Ballgowns: These dramatic and regal options feature full skirts that balance proportions and create an eye-catching statement.
- Off-the-Shoulder Sleeves: This romantic neckline showcases the décolletage and adds a touch of softness.
- Wrap and Empire Waists: Perfect for brides seeking a less structured fit that still offers definition and movement.
Explore Stunning Wedding Dresses in Size 30 and Up!
Isn’t this size 30 wedding gown from Azazie absolutely stunning? This dress is available up to size WD30, which corresponds to a waist measurement of 38 3/4″ on the AZAZIE size chart!
Photo Credit: www.azazie.com
Fall head over heels for the enchanting Azazie Judith! The delicate lace appliqués cascade over soft tulle, creating a romantic and ethereal silhouette that beautifully flatters every curve. With its comfortable fit and timeless design, you’ll glide down the aisle feeling like a dream.
Photo Credit: hccdesign.co
We adore this alternative plus size wedding dress! Available in sizes up to 36, this stunning size 30 black wedding dress from Hannah Caroline Couture is custom made for each bride, ensuring a perfect fit.
Step into your inner bohemian goddess with this beautiful Torrid wedding dress. Its delicate ivory lace drapes gracefully over a comfortable A-line silhouette, making it ideal for a relaxed and romantic wedding celebration. Feel effortlessly stunning as you say “I do” in this dreamy design!
Photo Credit: nerecina.com
This stunning custom size 30 wedding gown featuring exquisite feathers is truly breathtaking! Nerecina Couture crafts each piece up to a size 32, ensuring that this gown is custom-made to the bride’s unique measurements.
Photo Credit: Kiyonna.com
If you’re searching for a more understated size 30 dress, perhaps for an elopement or a courthouse wedding, Kiyonna offers beautiful options. This dress comes in sizes up to 5X or 30-32, accommodating a waist measurement of up to 62 inches.
Shopping for wedding dresses size 30 and up should be a delightful experience, not a stressful one. Don’t compromise on your vision. You deserve to feel like the star of your own love story. Seek out spaces that respect your body, bring along supportive friends to your appointments, and always remember: the right dress will enable you to feel like yourself—but elevated.
