Have you wondered what wedding dresses you should try on as a bride with a larger chest size? Finally, the wait is over! We spoke to our bridal stylist and expert alterations staff to learn how to approach shopping for your special day as a busty bride, and these are the tips you definitely don’t want to miss. Get the scoop, below.

1. Consider trying on dresses with straps- Definitely explore styles with straps thick enough to cover your bra straps! This way, you’ll have extra support and no one will even know. Cap sleeves are a great option here too. Keep in mind, while a spaghetti strap might look nice, the weight of your bust might make these skinny straps dig into your shoulders. Stiffer strap fabrics (think satin, crepe, etc.) will also provide extra support, while fabrics like delicate mesh will not.  Here at Bridal Elegance we have in stock supportive strapless, long line bras that you can try on with your gowns.

2. Corset back verses zipper back– As a woman our bodies change every day. Yes let’s discuss bloating.  There is a reason why designers create dresses with corsets.  A zipper back gown will leave your bust nowhere to go but up and out even with a little bloating. We have all seen brides oozing out the top of a gown or heard the stories of zips not doing up at the last minute or worse still, popping under the pressure. Something that no bride wants.

Whereas a corset or lace up back will ensure a great fit every time. No last minute worries.

3. Opt for styles with a higher back!- Dresses with raised backs make great options for bustier brides. This way, a bra can be worn without it being seen.  At Bridal Elegance we have many different styles that offer the raised back.  That doesn’t mean that you can’t see any of your back, it is just helps to not show to much of your back. 😊

4. Illusion isn’t off the table! While some might think sheer illusion in the bodice would be off limits for a bigger chest, fear no more! If you’re totally in love with the look of illusion, we say “yes”—just keep in mind you’ll need to wear a skin colored bra for some secret support. Depending on the level of illusion or cut outs, your seamstress might suggest filling in these areas with lace, lining or detailing to accommodate undergarments. Keep in mind, customization fees may apply here. 

5. Think about bust-friendly necklines- If you’re not wild about cleavage, there are great bust-friendly necklines out there for you! Instead of a more revealing v-neckline, try a bateau neckline or a pretty off-the shoulder look. Both of these styles can incorporate a strapless bra to give you the support you need, but still show off your décolletage.

The best bit of advice I can give to a bigger busted bride to be is never buy a wedding dress online. The girl in the picture is not you.

So the moral to the story is see a specialist when it comes to the most important piece of clothing you will ever wear try on different styles see for yourself how they sit on your body.

So the first question we always get asked is, ‘What IS a sample sale?’ as they often get mixed up with a Trunk Show. A sample sale is when you are purchasing the gown right out of our store’s collection. There are a number of reasons why bridal stores decide to part with a sample gown.  The dress is discontinued, the need for space because new season gowns are coming in and also the condition of a gown.  When you are purchasing a sample gown, remember that it will likely not be in perfect condition as it will have been tried on before by other brides HOWEVER, if you are the type of girl who loves a deal… the sample sale is perfect for you! There are a few top tips that we have for those of you thinking about purchasing from a sample sale…

1. Don’t dry clean the gown!- We don’t recommend this as you can ruin the gown. If you feel the need to clean, we can spot clean the areas you wish.

2. Don’t expect them to look brand new!- Remember that the gown will have been tried on before and may have things such as loose beads or lace however, the price will always reflect the condition of the dress.

3. Alterations!- can make the dress smaller or we can put in a corset to make it a size larger.

4.  Best time to get a dress for your reception!

5.  Don’t have 6 months to wait– sample sale is cash and carry.

Shop our sale July 17 – 24  and  find your dream wedding dress for less. Experience in person the magic of the moment when you discover the gown that is just right for you and can take home  with you.  Book your 90 minute gown appointment now.  The earlier the better so that you can see all of the gowns before they are bought.

• Discounted gowns are marked from $400-$1500 off their original price!   
• Clearance formalwear section of $39.99
• Special orders receive 10% off during the sale
• 10 FREE bling- bling tumblers for the first 10 brides who purchase a dress during the sale

​We have over 70 gowns in our collection that have been discounted! The gowns come in limited sizing and come as-is.

 While wearing a veil on your wedding day isn’t required, it’s definitely something to give some thought to. Deciding whether or not to wear one? We’ve compiled pros and cons for each side—veil or no veil.

Why not have a celebration as you are finding your dress!! At Bridal Elegance, we strive to make our brides feel like there is no one else in our boutique from the moment they walk in our doors. Our store is a safe place where you should feel comfortable to be yourself, make decisions, and learn along the way. We believe the experience of finding your dream wedding dress should create memories that will last a lifetime!  We want to CELEBRATE with You!

Our Queen Parties is for anyone looking to upgrade the typical bridal appointment at our boutique!  We also have Bridesmaids Parties to make that portion of the wedding planning process a celebration too. No matter if you are in town or traveling, we have an opportunity for you! All you have to do is click here to schedule an appointment.  In this blog, we will tell you all about our upgraded bridal experiences that we offer at Bridal Elegance!