Prom Spot - Prom Dresses: Answers to Your Plus-size Style Qs

Every girl wants to look amazing for prom, but finding a fabulous fit if you're over a size 14 can be a trying experience. We've turned to one of our fave fashionistas, Sydney from Sydney's Closet (the go-to spot for plus-size formal fashions), to answer your dress questions. These styling tips and tricks will help make your dress-buying experience fun (because, hey, it should be!).

Dear PromSpot: What kind of neckline looks best for a large bust? I don't want to completely cover up, but I don't want to show too much either.

Sydney: Avoid a V-neckline that's too deep, which will draw the eye straight to your chest. Instead, look for dresses with a more open shape, like a sweetheart or scoop neckline. That way, you can show off your shoulders and collarbone without drawing too much attention to your bust. Another great option: Halter-neck dresses are pretty and practical. The design leads the eye upward while also giving your chest extra support.

P.S.: If you're looking to downplay your bust line, skip dresses with lots of embellishments or fussy fabric on the bodice -- these will only draw more attention to your chest. On the other hand, if you're small-busted and want to create curves,
look for extras like ruched fabric on the bust
to give you a shapelier look.

Dear PromSpot: I always feel way too self-conscious in skintight dresses, but when I try on styles with more coverage, I just feel lost in all the fabric. Are there any dress styles you could recommend that fall somewhere in between?

Sydney: Always count on an A-line dress to flatter any full figure. Or consider a ball gown with a dropped or basque waist and corseted bodice. Ball gowns hide your lower body but give you a slimmer waistline and curvy chest. Plus, it's your prom -- a pretty fabulous excuse to dress like a princess.

P.S.: Dresses with lace-up corseted bodices let you decide how tight you want the laces to be, helping you to get your fit just right. But remember, don't go too tight. With all that dancing, you need to be sure you can breathe!

Dear PromSpot: I'm a little shy about my rear end. I just feel like it's too big! Can you recommend any dress styles that will downplay my booty?

Sydney: The trick here is to pick a dress style that skims rather than hugs your body. Stay away from sheath and mermaid-style designs, which cling to every curve. Instead, consider an A-line dress, which creates a pleasing silhouette by flowing out from the waist. Or try camouflaging your derriere in a dreamy ball gown.

P.S.: When you're shopping for dresses, think about what parts of your body you want to play up or down. Look for details like embellishments and fabric extras that shift the focus where you want it -- on your hair, eyes, waist, or wherever else you want to draw attention toward.

Dear PromSpot: I'm really excited for my first prom, but I've always felt uncomfortable in fancy dresses. Are there any fabrics or styles that you can recommend that are more comfortable?

Sydney: Absolutely! So many dress styles are out there for girls of every size; you shouldn't feel like you've only got ultraformal options. Forget about fussy fabrics like organdy, organza, velvet, and taffeta. Instead, why not go with a more flowing fabric like chiffon. You'll feel like you're floating -- and dancing! -- on cloud nine.

P.S.: No matter what the fabric, you won't feel comfortable in any prom dress if you don't have the right fit. Sizing can vary from designer to designer. Don't be alarmed if the dress of your dreams is a different size than you normally wear. What matters is that you feel comfortable and look fabulous, not the number on the tag.

Dear PromSpot: I want to wear a more fitted prom dress style, but I can't seem to get a smooth silhouette. What should I wear under my dress to avoid lumps, bumps, and panty lines?

Sydney: I'll let you in on a little secret: Spanx. Even Hollywood celebrities grab these on a big night out. Spanx makes all kinds of shapewear -- sort of like stockings, but way smarter since they smooth you out in all the right places. A fave for prom is their footless styles, which let you keep things under control, and you can still wear those strappy sandals.

P.S.: Do you have a question for Sydney? Email her at DearSydney@sydneyscloset.com

Photos courtesy of SydneysCloset.com

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