One of the first fashion rules that I learned in life is that a woman must always own a little black dress. It’s something my grandmother taught my mother, who taught me. They are firm believers that a black dress is must, especially for a full-figured woman. Apparently the rest of the world agrees with them too because the little black dress has a long standing reputation of being timeless, versatile, and flattering. No wonder practically every woman owns at least one. Speaking for myself, I have a closet filled with all kinds of black dresses. Long sleeve. Short sleeve. No Sleeve. Floor length. Mini. Lace. Scuba. You name it, I have the black edition of the dress. Black dresses are a staple in my wardrobe rotation, but recently I’ve had a change of heart and have been switching out my sleek black uniform for a plus size white dress.
Yes, you read correctly, plus size and white in the same sentence. Shocking, I know!
Normally, wearing a white dress wouldn’t be a big deal, unless you are a plus size woman. See, we’ve always been told that wearing white is a big no-no because it’s not “flattering” or better yet, “it shows all of the lumps and bumps.” I’ll admit it, I spent most of my life listening to this nonsense, but I’m so glad that I stopped. I would have missed out on one of the hottest fashion trends at the moment: the little white dress.
In the world of fashion, the little white dress has been stepping on some toes lately. It’s everywhere and what I love most about it is that it’s just as functional as a black dress, yet a brighter and more modern take on the look. It’s especially great for spring and summer, but if done correctly, it could work year round.
If you are one of the curvy girls that’s afraid to take a break from the LBD, fear no more. I’ve put together everything you need to know to rock a white dress like a pro! If you are excited about this trend, then take a peak at all of my favorite picks!
How to Select & Style Your Little White Dress
Choose The Right Under Garments- I completely understand how a white dress can be a bit intimidating, especially as a plus size woman. The truth is that lighter colors do make things look bigger and can be less forgiving than dark colors. White is notorious for putting a magnifying glass on every crease and crevice on the body, but that doesn’t mean that curvy women have to skip out on the little white dress trend. If the idea of revealing these beautiful “flaws” makes you feel uncomfortable, simply slip on some shape wear underneath.
I will admit it, I’m one of those girls that has no shame in wearing shape wear. It gives me the extra confidence boost that I need, so there is no shade here!
When preparing to add white dresses to your closet, I recommend stocking your lingerie drawer with a few key pieces. Having a full body shaping slip, a shaping cami (the ones that allow you to wear your own bra are best), shaping shorts, and a shaping panty is a must. I know this sounds like a lot, but these are the essentials that you should always have handy just in case.
Pick The Right Silhouette for your shape– Since the white dress is a hot item right now, there are many options to pick from. I don’t follow fashion rules when it comes to picking a silhouette that works for my body. I simply try things on and grab what makes me happy. But, if you prefer to follow a guide, start your search for a white dress based on you body shape.
- Hourglass Shape- Try a white dress that is cinched at the waist to show off your shape.
- Rectangle (Banana) Shape- Give the illusion of defined waist by belting your dress, or picking a dress that is fitted at the waist. A dress with draping and ruching is also a great choice to create the illusion of a curvier figure.
- Inverted Triangle- For broad shoulders, pick a dress that balances your shape such as an A-line dress.
- Oval (Apple) Shape- If you have a larger midsection and smaller legs, opt for a dress the will balance you figure, such as swing dress. The dress I’m wearing is actually a swing dress from ASOS and I love how it fits my body!
- Triangle (Pear) Shape- If your lower body is wider than the top of your body, pick a dress that helps to balance the two sides. A fit and flare dress is a good choice!
Accentuate Your Waist- If you are all about flattering and looking slimmer, wearing a belt with your dress can give you the illusion of a smaller waist. By defining the waist, a belt will give you an hourglass figure. Experiment with belts of different widths, but I personally like a printed skinny belt that adds a dash of color to the look.
Layer Your Look- To give your look dimension, layer your dress with different textures and prints. When it’s cooler out, try a leather bomber jacket to give the look and edgy feel. Even a printed cardigan can be fun. In the warmer months, opt for a lighter option such as a military vest or fitted denim jacket. You can even tie a chambray shirt around your waist for a cool effortless vibe.
Pop Some Color- Don’t be afraid to add a colorful splash of color to your outfit. You can add in color with layering pieces, printed shoes, and even accessories such a bright colored handbag.
Accessorize- Accessories are always the finishing touch to any outfit. Add a long necklace, a few bangles, or even a statement ring to your white dress to give it some personality.
Outfit Details
Plus Size White Dress- ASOS (Similar here)
Floral Print Pumps- JcPenney (Similar here in black)
Crossbody Bag- Francesca’s (Similar here and here)
Long Gold Necklace- Forever21
Bangles- Forever21 & Kate Spade (Similar here)
Round Sunglasses- Torrid (Similar here)
Phone Case- Rebecca Minkoff
Photos by Kari Simone
Location: Armory Annex in Lake Worth
Neti* says
I Love that dress on you and those shoes are perfect.
M&MFASHIONBITES says
Cute dress 🙂
Maria V.
Melanie says
Looking great Sahily! Love the white dress!
Mary says
I’ve being looking for plus size white dress..how I place my order?love it