Plus Size Prom

The Best Plus Size Prom Dress for your Body
By Tammy Ussery-Bakhtiari


If you are looking for a prom dress this season, it may seem like prom dress designers have forgotten what so many women look like. It seems like too many department stores offer dresses in a limited range of sizes, with 2 being the most common prom dress size. If you've seen, "The Devil Wears Prada," you are familiar with the ever-shrinking dress sizes.

Fortunately, many top designers offer their dresses in all sizes, ranging from a size 2 to a size 18 to a size 32. So don't give up! There are many plus size prom dresses available. Before you go shopping in a store or online, it helps to have an idea of what size you are and which dress styles will look best on your body type.


How Do I Measure Myself for a Prom Dress?

To find your size, you need to measure your bust, your waist, and your hips.

- Bust: Measure your bust at the fullest part with your arms down by your side. If you are going to be wearing a fitted bra under your prom dress, put on the bra before measuring. You may be anywhere from 40 inches (a size 12) to 50 inches (a size 22) to 61 inches for the bust measurement.
- Waist: Measure the smallest part of your waist, which is about 2 inches above your belly button. Similarly, this number may range from 35 inches to 45 inches or more if you are above a size 20. If your body carries most of the weight around the middle section, the waist is often the largest measurement.
- Hips: Measure your hips around the fullest part, including your rear end too. This measurement is most likely 6-10 inches more than your waist measurement.

After getting your measurements, look at a size chart online to get an idea of what size you are. Remember, most 2009 prom dresses require some alterations to fit your body perfectly.


Deciding on the Right Plus Size Prom Dress for You:
Once you have your dress size, it's time to go shopping! It's a good idea to flip through fashion magazines before-hand to get an idea of what styles are popular and what kind of prom dress you would like. Do you want a full length prom dress or a cocktail dress? Are you a romantic at heart, are you inspired by 1950s styles, or do you prefer something modern? Having an idea of what you want before you go shopping can save you hours in the dressing room.

It's also suggested you have an idea of what dresses will accent your best features. Understanding your overall body shape will really help you out.


Your Waist was your Largest Measurement:
If your waist was your largest measurement, your body carries most of the weight in the middle section, which is common among women. An A-line or a princess silhouette dress will look great on you. If you have shapely legs, consider a dress that shows them off! You can also draw attention towards your face by wearing dazzling earrings and your hair up.

You have an Athletic Body Type:
If you have a defined waist and larger hips and thighs, you have an athletic body type. Look for dresses that emphasize your bust, like an empire waistline dress or an A-line dress that accentuates your bust. You may also want to look for dresses that have intricate details above the waist. And remember, you can always take a dress in, so make sure the dress isn't too tight on your hips and thighs.

Your Body Measurements are More or Less the Same:
If your weight is evenly distributed, look for plus size prom dresses that you give you shape. A fitted bodice top, a sash around the waist, and a flowing bottom will most likely look the best on you. Whichever dress you choose, make sure you feel comfortable in it. A sleeveless mermaid prom dress with sexy shoes and a great evening bag may be perfect for you!


Remember, you can find the perfect plus size prom dress. Top designers offer their prom dresses in many sizes. There are also prom dress boutiques that would be happy to help you pick a prom dress that looks fantastic on you.