Finding Plus Size Courthouse Wedding Dresses
Courthouse plus size wedding dress – Choosing a wedding dress, especially for a plus-size bride, can feel overwhelming. However, a courthouse wedding offers a chance to simplify the process while still looking and feeling beautiful. This section explores the key aspects of finding the perfect plus-size courthouse wedding dress, focusing on style, fabric, silhouette, and budget.
Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dress Styles
Courthouse weddings lend themselves to simpler, more streamlined styles. Popular choices for plus-size brides include A-line dresses that flatter the figure, sheath dresses that offer a sleek and sophisticated look, and fit-and-flare dresses which cinch at the waist and flare out gently. Empire waist dresses also offer a flattering option, emphasizing the bust and creating a flowing silhouette.
Fabrics for Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dresses
Fabric choice significantly impacts both comfort and appearance. Several fabrics are well-suited for plus-size courthouse wedding dresses.
- Lace: Offers a touch of elegance and can be quite flattering, particularly in heavier weights. However, it can be less breathable than other options.
- Crepe: A versatile fabric known for its drape and ability to conceal imperfections. It’s comfortable and relatively easy to care for.
- Silk: Luxurious and flowing, silk can create a stunning silhouette. However, it can be more expensive and requires careful cleaning.
- Chiffon: Lightweight and airy, chiffon is a good choice for warmer weather. It can be sheer, so a lining is often necessary.
Flattering Necklines and Silhouettes
The right neckline and silhouette can significantly enhance a plus-size bride’s figure. V-necklines tend to elongate the torso, while sweetheart necklines offer a romantic touch. A-line and empire waist silhouettes are generally flattering, creating a balanced and proportionate look. Avoid overly structured styles that might feel restrictive or emphasize unwanted areas.
Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dress Price Comparison
| Dress Type | Ready-to-Wear | Custom-Made | Rental |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plus-Size Courthouse Dress | $100 – $500 | $500 – $1500+ | $50 – $200 |
Accessorizing a Plus Size Courthouse Wedding Dress
Accessories can elevate a courthouse wedding dress from simple to stunning. The key is to choose pieces that complement the dress and the overall style without overwhelming the look. Over-accessorizing can detract from the bride’s natural beauty, so less is often more.
Appropriate Accessories for Plus-Size Brides
Accessories should be chosen carefully to enhance the bride’s features and the dress’s style. A simple veil, delicate jewelry, and comfortable shoes are ideal. Avoid overly flashy or bulky accessories that might detract from the overall elegance.
Accessory Combinations for a Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding
- Classic Elegance: A simple cathedral-length veil, pearl stud earrings, and classic ivory heels. This combination creates a timeless and sophisticated look.
- Modern Minimalist: A short, birdcage veil, a delicate necklace, and simple nude heels. This option is perfect for a more contemporary and understated aesthetic.
- Romantic Bohemian: A flower crown, statement earrings, and ankle boots. This combination offers a relaxed yet stylish feel.
Accessory Price Points
- Budget-Friendly: Statement jewelry from affordable brands, simple veils from online retailers, comfortable flats.
- Mid-Range: Delicate pearl jewelry, knee-length veils from bridal boutiques, stylish low heels.
- Luxury: Designer jewelry, custom-made veils, high-end designer shoes.
Styling a Plus Size Bride for a Courthouse Wedding
Professional hair and makeup are crucial for ensuring the bride looks and feels her best in her courthouse wedding photos. A skilled artist can highlight the bride’s features and create a look that complements her dress and personality. This section offers guidance on achieving a simple yet elegant style.
Professional Hair and Makeup
A professional stylist can create a look that’s both timeless and flattering, ensuring the bride’s best features are showcased in photos. They can also advise on appropriate hairstyles and makeup for the bride’s face shape and hair texture.
Flattering Hairstyles and Makeup Looks
For a plus-size bride, hairstyles that add volume and create a balanced silhouette are ideal. Loose waves, soft updos, or half-up half-down styles are all great options. Makeup should be natural and enhance the bride’s features, avoiding overly heavy or dramatic looks.
Creating a Simple Yet Elegant Hairstyle
A simple yet elegant hairstyle can be achieved with a few key steps. Start by prepping the hair with a volumizing product. Then, create loose waves with a curling iron or by braiding damp hair overnight. Finally, style the hair into a half-up half-down style, securing with bobby pins and hairspray.
Makeup Styles for a Courthouse Wedding
Source: greenweddingshoes.com
Natural makeup looks are typically preferred for courthouse weddings. This involves focusing on enhancing the bride’s natural features with subtle shades and a radiant finish. More dramatic looks can be considered, but should still complement the overall style and setting.
Photography Tips for Plus Size Brides in Courthouse Settings
Choosing the right location and poses within the courthouse is crucial for capturing flattering plus-size wedding photographs. Working closely with a photographer who understands how to work with different body types is essential to ensure the bride feels comfortable and confident. Lighting and angles play a significant role in enhancing the bride’s appearance.
Ideal Locations and Poses
Courthouses often offer a variety of backdrops for photos, from grand staircases to elegant hallways. Utilize these architectural elements to create visually appealing images. Poses that emphasize the bride’s best features, such as her smile and eyes, are key. Avoid poses that might make the bride feel self-conscious.
Working with a Photographer
Communication is key when working with a photographer. Discuss the bride’s preferences and concerns beforehand, ensuring the photographer understands her vision and feels comfortable working with a plus-size bride.
Lighting and Angles
Soft, diffused lighting is ideal for plus-size wedding photography. Avoid harsh shadows that can be unflattering. Angles that elongate the body and highlight the bride’s best features are crucial. For instance, shooting from slightly above can create a slimming effect.
Flattering Poses for Plus-Size Brides
-
Standing with one leg slightly in front of the other, creating a subtle curve in the body. This pose elongates the legs and creates a more balanced silhouette.
-
Turning slightly to the side, with one hand on the hip and the other gently resting on the arm. This pose highlights the waistline and creates a confident and elegant posture.
-
Sitting with legs crossed at the ankles, leaning slightly forward. This pose creates a relaxed yet sophisticated look, emphasizing the bride’s upper body and facial features.
Budgeting for a Plus Size Courthouse Wedding
A courthouse wedding can be surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to larger traditional weddings. However, careful planning and budgeting are still essential to ensure the day is special without breaking the bank. This section provides guidance on managing costs and finding cost-effective options.
Typical Costs of a Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding
Costs include the dress, accessories, photography, and any other expenses such as hair and makeup. The cost of a plus-size dress can vary depending on the designer and fabric. Photography costs depend on the photographer’s experience and package chosen.
Saving Money on a Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding
Consider buying a dress from a sample sale, borrowing or renting a dress, opting for a less expensive photographer, or using DIY options for some aspects of the wedding.
Sample Budget for a Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Dress | $200 – $500 |
| Accessories | $50 – $150 |
| Photography | $300 – $800 |
| Hair & Makeup | $100 – $200 |
Cost-Effective Options, Courthouse plus size wedding dress
Source: brides.com
Borrowing or renting a dress can significantly reduce costs. Consider using friends or family members for photography or hair and makeup to save money. Utilizing free resources like courthouse locations and free online resources for planning can also minimize costs.
FAQ Guide: Courthouse Plus Size Wedding Dress
Can I alter a ready-to-wear plus-size wedding dress?
Yes, many alterations are possible to ensure a perfect fit. Consult a seamstress for advice.
Where can I find affordable plus-size wedding shoes?
Online retailers and department stores often offer budget-friendly options. Consider consignment shops as well.
What if I’m uncomfortable with professional makeup?
Focus on a natural look you can achieve yourself, enhancing your best features. Plenty of tutorials are available online.
How do I choose a photographer who understands plus-size bodies?
Look for portfolios showcasing diverse body types and positive representations. Read reviews and testimonials.