Let's be realistic here. The average woman in the UK is a size 16 so what's the point in trying to squeeze into a dress that's too small or a style that doesn't suit?

Serious shopping is more fun the more you’ve got to work with, so celebrate your shape.

To try wedding gowns that fit properly visit a retailer with a good stock of gorgeous dresses in sizes that will fit real women.

Book a consultation

It’s best to book a one-on-one consultation with the wedding dress shop. You’ll get plenty of time to try on all the styles you like with advice from a knowledgeable member of staff.

On the day of the appointment make sure you’re wearing flesh-toned, supportive underwear - it really will make a huge different to how the wedding gowns fit. And trust the bridal shop expert: they know their dresses and sometimes their choices can surprise you.

Styles that flatter

A great wedding dress for plus-sized brides should be designed, cut and boned specifically to flatter curvier figures. But it’s crucial to be aware of what works for your body shape:

Boned bodices with A-line skirts are flattering on most voluptuous body shapes as they define the waist, support the bust and skim over your hips and bottom.

If you want to flaunt your curves and are top heavy try a mermaid or fishtail gown, which hugs the body and flares out at the bottom, balancing out your figure.

Empire line gowns can be flattering as they’re cut from the bust, so conceal lumps and bumps, but are better for women with smaller busts.

A well-cut full, ball gown skirt with a fitted, lace-up bodice suits hourglass or pear-shaped women, but be wary of layered skirts as these can add the appearance of weight.

V-necklines are great for larger busts as they draw attention to the centre of the bodice, minimising the appearance of the bust.

Sweetheart necklines work with princess-style gowns and provide plenty of support.

The only style to avoid is a straight, column-style gown, which can be unforgiving.

Gorgeous fabrics

Choose the material of your wedding dress carefully. Chiffon and organza hang better on curvy women than clingy satin. Gorgeous gowns for fuller figures are structured but use floaty materials to skim the body.

Pleats, embellishments and ruffles on the wedding dress will draw attention to the part of the gown they’re used on. Use them to flaunt your best features and distract from the parts you’d prefer to conceal!

If you are concerned about the bat-wing effect under your upper arms try wedding dresses with long or cap sleeves or accessorise your gown with a wrap or shrug. Alternatively you can ask a seamstress to add sleeves to your favourite gown.

Make your own rules

There are no universal rules to finding the perfect wedding dress. Try on as many styles as you can - you never know what will suit you until you try it! All good bridal shops will have your dress altered to fit, so any minor problems can be fixed.

Most importantly, your wedding dress must support and flatter your figure, but you must be comfortable in it. It’s better to go one size up and cut the label out than spend all day feeling pinched and uncomfortable. A great wedding dress should make the most of your fabulous curves and make you feel gorgeous.