Real Brides - Real Sizes

When we were young, many of us imagined how we would be as beautiful as an African Princess on our wedding day. We would also marry a tall, rich, fine brotha, (this was after all a fairytale!) As we grew older and wiser, we came to realize not every woman was meant to model underwear for Victoria's Secret, nor for that matter, are all princes guys we would necessarily want to marry. In a supermodel culture, we scrutinized our bodies and went on some ridiculous fad diet in order to fit into those slender jeans. Some of us lost weight, some of us gained, but after all was said and done -- we realized size has nothing to do with what's inside ourselves.  And guess what? We fell in love! And because every bride wants to look beautiful on her wedding day, whether she wears a size 4 or a 24, these are some suggestions to assist a "sista with curves" look her best!

Accentuate the positive.  Whatever you feel is your strongest feature – strong legs, a lovely cleavage, a shapely hips -- choose a wedding ensemble that enhances that attribute. If you have a beautiful neckline, don't hide by covering your neck. If you have pretty shoulders, show them off with a strapless or off-the-shoulder gown. You already know what your best features are - it's up to you to emphasize them.

Eliminate the negative. In addition to playing up the positive, you've got to eliminate the negative, especially any bad self-image feelings. If you haven't done so already, accept and love yourself for who you are. If you weren't beautiful, inside and out, you wouldn't be looking for a wedding gown in the first place, right?   So what you have big legs?  Your man loves them!

The Right Gown. There are so many gown styles out there, how do you find the one that best suits your figure? Most experts agree it is best to go for simple, classic lines, and to avoid heavy beading and large, gaudy accessories. Keep in mind these tips for your search.  

• If you are heavy on the top, try a fitted or an A-line dress. A full skirt will to make you look big all over.

• If you are heavy on the bottom, a full skirt is perfect for you, especially if you have a nice waistline. An A-line dress will compliment your figure also.

• Try not to go for heavy gathering at the waist of a gown. This makes every bride look larger than she is. If you are tall, go for a long bodice with box pleats, which are far more flattering.

• Never buy a gown too small thinking "I'll lose those last 5 pounds" before the wedding. Brides who do this don't necessarily lose the weight and end up panicked at the last minute. Since can be stressful and expensive, (you may end up buying another dress,) why not buy the gown that fits you now. No need for unnecessary pressure.   Besides, if you happen to lose weight before the wedding, you'll look even better and the gown can easily be altered.

Choosing a Headpiece. In this case, the style of the gown – not size - matters most. If your gown is strapless or fitted, a long veil can be quite complimentary. If you are wearing a long-sleeved dress with delicate lace in an elaborate design, a simple headpiece may be more appropriate. Make sure you try on several different veils and headpieces with your gown before making your final decision.

Undergarments. Take note, undergarments are the foundation of your ensemble.  It is important to choose the right piece that will flatter your shape and gown. While you won't want to squeeze into tight corset, you should try to smooth out any little bulges with slimming lingerie. Most department stores carry one-piece control garments, with either short or long legs, or bustiers.  It's recommended to have a one-piece garment because they don't break the line, (really important if your gown is fitted). If you have voluptuous breasts, by all means, play them up. But remember, too much of anything is never a good thing, so don't overdo it by creating mega-cleavage with a Wonder Bra. You're the bride, not a dancer at the Golden Retreat.

At the very least, invest in a pair of good quality control top stockings. Comfort should come first.  The bottom-line rule for all clothes: Don't wear anything too tight because you WILL be miserable, plus it will only make you look bigger.  Who wants that distraction on the biggest day of their life?

Hair and Makeup. If you're upset that you didn't lose those extra pounds before your wedding, remember this: family and friends won't be staring at the "extra weight" during your celebration -- they'll be looking at your glowing face. Why not focus on the area that will get the most attention? Indulge in a facial a week or so before your wedding, (never the day before), and if possible, have your hair and makeup done professionally. If this isn't possible, go to the make-up counter at a near-by department store and let them make you more beautiful than you already are.   It is after all your special day.

Hopefully these tips will help you create the wedding look that makes you feel every bit as sexy and beautiful as Angela Bassett.  After all, it's not the size of your dress that matters anyway -- it's the size of your heart.