Plus-Size Problems Solved!

Monif C. has the curviest women covered!

The other day my co-worker emailed me the following question:

Another pal is looking for a suitable size 12 dress to wear to a "formal" wedding in 2 weeks. Can you recommend a store or two that has inexpensive (>$50 is ideal but may be unrealistic), fancy but not too fancy dresses for a curvy, busty size 12?

I totally enjoy helping folks out with this kind of stuff so I promptly responded with this reply: (On my LUNCH BREAK of course, lol!)

Ann Taylor immediately comes to mind. Zara and Banana Republic do as well. The Victoria Secret catalogue is another great resource. She shouldn’t sleep on these chain stores because they just might have the perfect dress for her at the right price. (As crazy as it seems, these retailers have already started to mark down many of their summer items because fall I merchandise will be rolling in soon.)

She should also check out Lee Lee’s Valise in Brooklyn which apparently has stylish options for plus-size gals. The price points might be on the high end but she should think of this type of purchase as an investment.

Monif C. is another strong option for her. They have a store in midtown. ***Fabulous and affordable wrap dresses...

In general, she should try to look for a wrap dress or a silhouette that will accentuate her bust line. This includes v-necks and low scoop necks. Proper foundation is very important too so tell her not to forget about wearing the right undergarments with whatever dress she chooses. (Spanx is a no-brainer here but not the only option.)

If I think of something else, I’ll hit you back...

My co-worker was elated and quickly passed the info onto her pal. It wasn't until a couple of days later that I realized this exchange would make the perfect PPT post. I hope this info helps someone else. In addition to the resourses highlighted above, I thought of a few others after like Kiyonna, Igigi and Cherished Woman which was started by a former plus size model.

And about that under fifty bucks caveat. While it isn't completely unrealistic, it is more important to consider value when shopping rather than price. Paying $100 for a dress that will be worn multiple times per year over five years or so (as this type of dress probably will be) is a lot more cost-effective than a dress that cost $30 and can only be worn twice because it lacks quality.

Oh and there is always the vintage/thrift route but in my experience when shopping for a specific item as this size 12 wedding goer is, a reliable go-to resource is a much better bet. Vintage shopping can be very hit or miss and is not ideal for anyone under pressure.


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