Big Girl in a Skinny World: Tips for Finding the Perfect Little Black Dress

Hi Ladies:

This week Alice from Cantu, Texas says: 

Hi Ashley, I'm a 17, 5'6 size 18-20 plus size girl, and I was wondering if you have any tips for "the perfect little black dress" for big girls like us. What should I look for, and any ideas on where I could find it for an affordable price? And how should I glam it up for parties and formal occasions? 

Alice, the little black dress is by far one of the most important items in any girls' closet (plus-size or not). When shopping for your LBD, you want to keep a few things in mind. 

1) Fit. You want the dress to fit perfectly. Too tight and it will look like it was painted on, and too loose will actually make you look bigger than you are. 

2) Cut. Not everything black is slimming. The cut should compliment your curves.

3) Occasion. Invest in at least 2 LBD's: A casual T-shirt dress and a dressier cocktail option. 

A few options that I am currently loving are: Ann Taylor's Ponte V-Back Sheath Dress, ASOSCap Sleeve Ponte Dress, INC's Sleeveless Fringe Plus Size Dress and Calvin Klein's Cap-Sleeved Dress. To dress up a LBD add some killer heels and a statement piece of jewelry like JCREW's Shadow Facet Necklace. To tone your LBD down a notch, throw on a cardigan and pair it with some ballet flats. Remember, if the fit is great and you love the dress, don't be afraid to spend a little more money on it. This classic item will be sure to give you your moneys worth. Let me know how it goes!

-Ashley

Your BIG GIRL IN A SKINNY WORLD

Email Ashley here!