If you think only thin people can look beautiful, then you are wrong. Fashion has transitioned in many ways while we are entering 2018. With elegant plus-size dresses, curvy women (size 12 or above) have an equal right to dress up however they want and set their own trend.

The notion that you are not fashionable just because you are a size bigger than normal is false. You do not have to satisfy yourself in loose-fitted clothes every season when you have big brands such as J.C. Penny and Macy offering plus-size dresses.

American plus-size model Ashley Graham revolutionized the fashion industry when she appeared on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue in 2016 in a skimpy bikini.

In 2016, Nike followed the lead and added plus-size clothing (X-sized) to its sportswear range. Top brands such as H&M, Prabal Gurung, Michael Kors, and Dolce & Gabbana showcased their plus-size dresses during Fall/Winter 2017 Runway shows, creating an unprecedented history in the fashion industry.

Where to shop plus-size dresses?

Designers and retailers have come a long way in the clothing industry by adding inexpensive large clothes. International brands such as Lane Bryant, a plus-size retailer, Ralph Lauren, Target have also expanded their plus-size clothing range.

Lane Bryant is one of the popular names in the country for selling plus-size dresses. Emphasizing on fashion and body style, not size, Lane Bryant has become a pioneer in women’s clothing. Lane Bryant items are available in their over 800 stores and you can also shop online through the official website. They also sell plus-size intimates and sleepwear.

Avenue Stores, another U.S.-based fashion retailer offers plus-size dresses for women in size 14-32. Born as Sizes Unlimited 30 years ago, Avenue provides formal wear to casual attire designed to meet the clothing needs of their customers. Various types of dresses are available at their stores (around 300) and online.

Torrid is the retail destination for American women with sizes 10-30. The offline as well as online stores offer plus-size dresses for young and stylish women and inspire them to look confident.

On The Plus Side is an online shopping store which caters to women in sizes 20-48 (0X-8X) and features plus-size dresses including tops, tunics, skirts, intimates, and swimwear.

Famous retailers such as Target and Amazon also offer inexpensive plus-size dresses but in a limited quantity.

Types of plus-size dresses

If you want to accentuate your curves and camouflage your tummy and thighs, go for an A-line or Empire style dress. With the flowy lower half of the plus-size dress, you can look ravishing when compared to a fitted type one.

With an hourglass-shaped figure, it is preferable to go for a retro look plus-size dress or classic silhouettes such as a shift dress. Try a fit-and-flare dress to give a complete portrayal of your curves with a subtle stress at the waist. Going to a party? Go for a bodycon dress to accentuate the hips and bust areas.

If you are a busty woman, a waist-cinching floral print plus-size dress which fits in the bust area will slim the middle portion while highlighting your upper body.

For a woman with an apple-shaped figure, a short sheath plus-size dress with sequins will hide your upper portion while the short hemline will show off your narrow hips and slim legs.

Pear-shaped women should opt for A-line plus size dresses to showcase their small waist.

Shift plus-size dresses with a wool-blend look is a good option for women with rectangle shaped figure to create a fuller silhouette.