Plus Size Women's Long Sleeve Dress

Plus Size Women's Long Sleeve Dresses: A Style Guide

The world of fashion is finally embracing the beauty and diversity of all body types, and plus size women are leading the charge. Long sleeve dresses have emerged as a versatile and stylish staple in the plus size wardrobe, offering comfort, coverage, and endless possibilities for creating stunning looks. This guide will delve into the exciting world of plus size long sleeve dresses, exploring the various styles, fabrics, prints, and styling tips to help you find the perfect dress for every occasion.

Types of Plus Size Long Sleeve Dresses:

The beauty of long sleeve dresses lies in their ability to adapt to various styles and occasions. From casual outings to formal events, there's a long sleeve dress for every taste and personality.

Maxi Dresses: These floor-length beauties are perfect for creating an effortlessly chic and elegant look. They offer a flattering silhouette and can be dressed up or down with the right accessories. Consider a flowy maxi dress in a vibrant floral print for a summery vibe or a sleek black maxi dress with a high slit for a sophisticated evening look.
Midi Dresses: Falling just below the knee, midi dresses provide a versatile option for both casual and semi-formal occasions. They can be styled with flats for a daytime look or heels for a more polished ensemble. Explore midi dresses in bold colors, geometric patterns, or classic prints like polka dots for a fun and trendy style.
Bodycon Dresses: For a figure-hugging and glamorous look, bodycon dresses are a go-to choice. They accentuate curves and create a sleek and sophisticated silhouette. Choose a bodycon dress in a rich velvet fabric for a luxurious evening event or opt for a stretchy jersey material for a comfortable and stylish everyday look.
Wrap Dresses: Wrap dresses are known for their flattering fit and versatility. They cinch in at the waist, creating a flattering hourglass shape, and can be adjusted to suit different body types. Look for wrap dresses in playful prints, elegant solid colors, or sophisticated textures like lace for a touch of femininity.

Fabric Choices:

The fabric of a long sleeve dress plays a significant role in its overall feel, drape, and comfort. Here's a closer look at some popular fabric choices for plus size long sleeve dresses:

Cotton: Breathable, comfortable, and easy to care for, cotton is a classic fabric choice for long sleeve dresses. It's perfect for casual outings and can be found in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Silk: Known for its luxurious feel and elegant drape, silk is a perfect choice for special occasions. It adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit and can be styled with statement jewelry and heels for a glamorous look.
Velvet: Velvet adds a touch of richness and drama to any outfit. Its soft texture and luxurious feel make it perfect for evening events and special occasions. Look for velvet dresses in deep jewel tones or classic black for a sophisticated and elegant look.
Lace: Lace adds a touch of femininity and romance to any outfit. It's perfect for creating a delicate and ethereal look, especially for weddings, bridal showers, or special date nights. Lace dresses can be found in a variety of styles, from delicate floral patterns to bold geometric designs.
Jersey: Jersey is a stretchy and comfortable fabric that is perfect for everyday wear. It drapes beautifully and offers a flattering fit, making it a popular choice for bodycon dresses and casual maxi dresses.

Prints and Patterns:

Prints and patterns can add personality and flair to your long sleeve dress collection. From classic floral prints to bold geometric designs, there's a print for every taste and occasion.

Floral: Floral prints are a timeless classic and can be found in a wide range of styles, from delicate and feminine to bold and dramatic. Floral dresses are perfect for spring and summer events and can be styled with sandals, wedges, or heels.
Geometric: Geometric prints add a modern and edgy touch to any outfit. They can be found in a wide range of colors and patterns, from subtle stripes to bold abstract designs. Geometric dresses are perfect for creating a statement look and can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.
Animal Print: Animal prints are a bold and confident choice for those who want to make a statement. Leopard print, zebra print, and snakeskin are all popular options and can be styled with neutral colors for a balanced look.
Solid Colors: Solid colors offer a classic and versatile option for any occasion. They can be dressed up or down with the right accessories and can be found in a wide range of colors, from vibrant hues to classic neutrals.

Styling Tips:

Styling a long sleeve dress is all about finding the right balance between comfort, style, and occasion. Here are some tips to help you create stunning looks with your favorite long sleeve dresses:

Casual Outings: For casual outings, pair a long sleeve dress with sneakers, flats, or sandals. Add a denim jacket or cardigan for warmth and a pop of color. Accessorize with a crossbody bag, statement jewelry, and a fun hat.
Workwear: Opt for a midi dress in a neutral color like black, navy, or gray. Pair it with a blazer or cardigan and heels for a professional look. Choose a dress with a simple silhouette and minimal embellishments for a polished and sophisticated style.
Formal Occasions: For formal events, choose a long sleeve dress in a luxurious fabric like silk or velvet. Accessorize with statement jewelry, a clutch, and heels. Consider a dress with a flattering neckline and a touch of embellishment for a glamorous and elegant look.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Finding the perfect plus size long sleeve dress goes beyond just picking a size. It's about understanding your unique body shape and choosing a dress that accentuates your best features. Here's a guide to help you navigate the world of fit and find a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful:

Understanding Body Shape:

The first step is to identify your body shape. This will help you understand which dress styles will flatter your figure. Common body shapes include hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, and inverted triangle. Once you know your shape, you can choose dresses that emphasize your curves or balance your proportions. For example, an hourglass figure can accentuate the waist with a cinched belt, while a pear shape can be balanced with a wider A-line skirt.

Sizing and Fit:

Accurate sizing is crucial in plus size clothing. Don't be afraid to try on different sizes within the same brand, as sizing can vary. Pay attention to the fit across your bust, waist, and hips. The dress should hug your curves without being too tight or too loose. If you're shopping online, check the size chart and read customer reviews for guidance. It's always best to try on clothes before purchasing, especially when it comes to dresses, to ensure a perfect fit.

Fabric Drape and Stretch:

The fabric of a dress plays a significant role in how it drapes and moves with your body. Choose fabrics with good drape, like silk, chiffon, or jersey, for a flattering and flowy look. Stretchy fabrics, like spandex blends, provide comfort and allow for movement. Consider the occasion and your personal style when selecting fabric. For a formal event, a silk dress might be more appropriate, while a jersey dress could be ideal for a casual outing.

Hemline and Length:

The hemline of your dress can significantly affect your overall look. Maxi dresses, reaching the ankles, can elongate the figure and create a graceful silhouette. Midi dresses, hitting just below the knee, are versatile and flattering for various body types. Consider your height and personal preference when choosing the length. Shorter hemlines can also be flattering, but they might not be suitable for all occasions.

Sleeves and Necklines:

Plus size long sleeve dresses offer a wide variety of sleeve styles and necklines. Experiment with different options to find what best complements your features. For example, a V-neckline can elongate the neck and create a slimming effect, while a scoop neckline can accentuate the shoulders. Sleeves can range from classic long sleeves to bell sleeves, bishop sleeves, or even ¾ sleeves. Consider the season, the occasion, and your personal style when selecting sleeves and necklines.

Shopping Resources and Brands

Finding the perfect plus size long sleeve dress is all about exploring your options and discovering brands that align with your style and budget. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of plus size fashion:

Online Retailers:

ASOS: A global online retailer with an extensive plus size collection, ASOS offers a wide variety of styles, from casual to formal, at affordable prices.
Torrid: Specializing in trendy and fashion-forward plus size clothing, Torrid features a curated selection of long sleeve dresses that are both stylish and flattering.
Lane Bryant: Known for its inclusive sizing and classic designs, Lane Bryant offers a range of long sleeve dresses perfect for workwear, special occasions, and everyday wear.
Eloquii: A popular destination for fashion-conscious plus size women, Eloquii boasts a collection of contemporary and sophisticated long sleeve dresses.
Universal Standard: Committed to size inclusivity and comfort, Universal Standard offers a range of sizes and styles, including long sleeve dresses that are both stylish and functional.

Brick-and-Mortar Stores:

Macy's: With locations nationwide, Macy's carries a wide selection of plus size clothing, including long sleeve dresses from various brands.
Nordstrom: Known for its high-quality merchandise and excellent customer service, Nordstrom offers a curated selection of plus size long sleeve dresses from both established and emerging brands.
Dillards: Another popular department store chain, Dillards features a diverse collection of plus size long sleeve dresses, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.
Torrid: With brick-and-mortar stores across the US, Torrid offers a personalized shopping experience and a dedicated team of stylists to help you find the perfect dress.

Plus Size Fashion Brands:

Universal Standard: Known for its commitment to size inclusivity and ethical production, Universal Standard designs versatile and stylish long sleeve dresses for women of all shapes and sizes.
Eloquii: With a focus on contemporary and fashion-forward designs, Eloquii caters to the modern plus size woman who wants to express her individuality through her wardrobe.
Torrid: This brand specializes in creating trendy and edgy plus size clothing, featuring bold prints, unique textures, and flattering silhouettes.
Lane Bryant: Offering a mix of classic and contemporary styles, Lane Bryant caters to women who appreciate quality, comfort, and timeless designs.
Ashley Stewart: This brand specializes in clothing for curvy women, offering a wide range of vibrant colors, bold prints, and flattering silhouettes.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Shopping:

Shop During Sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotions, as retailers often offer significant discounts on plus size long sleeve dresses.
Use Coupons and Promo Codes: Many online retailers and brick-and-mortar stores offer coupons and promo codes that can help you save money on your purchases.
Explore Second-Hand Options: Consider shopping at consignment stores, thrift shops, or online platforms like Poshmark or ThredUp to find affordable plus size long sleeve dresses.
Look for Clearance Sections: Many retailers have dedicated clearance sections where you can find discounted items, including plus size long sleeve dresses.

By exploring these resources, you can find the perfect plus size long sleeve dress that makes you feel confident, stylish, and comfortable. Remember, the key is to embrace your unique style and discover brands and retailers that celebrate your individuality.