Anonymous wrote:My Macy’s has a ton of gown inventory in a lot of sizes.

where is your Macy’s?

https://www.kiyonna.com/products/francesca-cocktail-dress?variant=44975772696881

https://www.kiyonna.com/products/victoria-velvet-evening-gown?variant=44967508148529

https://www.kiyonna.com/products/leona-lace-gown?variant=44967097794865

https://www.kiyonna.com/products/celestial-cape-sleeve-gown?variant=48367787573553

https://www.kiyonna.com/products/victoria-velvet-evening-gown?variant=44967508148529

Anonymous wrote:Macy’s and Nordstrom’s online. Buy a bunch and return.

Unfortunately, for certain sizes, this is how you have to do it. Those two are my go to stores as well, but David’s Bridal does sell some dresses for wedding guests in virtually every size and they’re very affordable.

https://www.davidsbridal.com/dresses/wedding-guest-dresses?Size=18&page=3

My Macy’s has a ton of gown inventory in a lot of sizes.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I also liked Lord & Taylor.

I feel that online versions of department stores have potential.

The fashionistas on here are very down on what I would consider traditional brands (e.g., Talbot's).

Based on my mom's shopping experiences and recommendations on other DCUM threads, you might try Dillard's. Macy's online is pretty obvious plus it would be easier to return things that don't work out.

https://www.dillards.com/p/adrianna-papell-plus-size-beaded-mesh-jewel-neck-short-flutter-sleeve-blouson-gown/514173245

Another option might be David's Bridal. There are many plus size brides and bridal party members. You might find a suitably formal dress there.

Tell us what your ideal silhouette is, and maybe people can suggest some options?

OP here. I have no idea what that means.

By silhouette I mean..describe the basic outline of dresses you like. Like a pencil sketch of the sleeves, neckline, waist, length. Most people have styles they like, and some no gos.

For example:

I like sleeves and never do sleeveless.
Cleavage or no cleavage? Scoop or sweetheart or vee?
You already said no defined waist
Length?
Colors you like?
Beading or no beading (sequins/pearls)
Can you post some examples of things that look good to you? Because I think my style is traditional/classic and the things I post have the bodycon fashionistas screaming "Omg, No!" Since you asked for matronly, we'd like to help you look comfy but not old and unattractive...let's aim higher!

Also I'm intrigued by the people who suggest eShakti for dress customization. I'm not there yet, but have considered it.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Macy’s and Nordstrom’s online. Buy a bunch and return.

a bit pricy to do that

Do you have time?

If you do, look for stores that will take returns in store, then pick one dress or 2, pay with a credit card, and return ASAP if they don't work. The return will take the purchase off your card so you aren't paying for it. Repeat until you find the dress you like.

Try Mae's Dress Boutique in McLean; you may have to spend a bit though.

Anonymous wrote:Macy’s and Nordstrom’s online. Buy a bunch and return.

a bit pricy to do that

Anonymous wrote:I also liked Lord & Taylor.

I feel that online versions of department stores have potential.

The fashionistas on here are very down on what I would consider traditional brands (e.g., Talbot's).

Based on my mom's shopping experiences and recommendations on other DCUM threads, you might try Dillard's. Macy's online is pretty obvious plus it would be easier to return things that don't work out.

https://www.dillards.com/p/adrianna-papell-plus-size-beaded-mesh-jewel-neck-short-flutter-sleeve-blouson-gown/514173245

Another option might be David's Bridal. There are many plus size brides and bridal party members. You might find a suitably formal dress there.

Tell us what your ideal silhouette is, and maybe people can suggest some options?

OP here. I have no idea what that means.

I would google mother of the bride dresses, they're always fairly matronly and formal. Can't really help with where to find plus sizes though, sorry.

Anonymous wrote:Macy’s and Nordstrom’s online. Buy a bunch and return.

+1
This is the way.

You have to try on a lot of options. I'm sure you will find something nice.

Macy’s and Nordstrom’s online. Buy a bunch and return.

Have you looked at https://alexevenings.com/?

I also liked Lord & Taylor.

I feel that online versions of department stores have potential.

The fashionistas on here are very down on what I would consider traditional brands (e.g., Talbot's).

Based on my mom's shopping experiences and recommendations on other DCUM threads, you might try Dillard's. Macy's online is pretty obvious plus it would be easier to return things that don't work out.

https://www.dillards.com/p/adrianna-papell-plus-size-beaded-mesh-jewel-neck-short-flutter-sleeve-blouson-gown/514173245

Another option might be David's Bridal. There are many plus size brides and bridal party members. You might find a suitably formal dress there.

Tell us what your ideal silhouette is, and maybe people can suggest some options?

My go to was always Lord and Taylor. But now they are gone.

Prefer more matronly design. 5’6 ( used to be 5’8”) Long torso, short legs, large bust with a pooch, no real waist. I will be wearing flats. Not looking to wow. Aunt. Size 18 - in normal clothes, I know sizing tends to be small in gowns and bust frequently makes me have to go up in sizing.