5 Wedding Dress Companies That are Championing Body-Positive Bridal Wear

Wedding magazines notoriously publish glossy photos of thin models, perpetuating unhealthy beauty expectations for subscribers. Not to mention, sales associates often tell curvy women “this wedding dress will slim down your figure,” which can lead to unhealthy body image mindsets and eating disorder tendencies. In recent years, there has been an increase in body positivity messaging and a cohort of social media accounts reminding their followers that health at every size should be the norm. Designers and companies alike are beginning to offer a wider range of sizes from 0 to 32 as well as the option for the bespoke method where brides may customize their gowns. The following wedding dress companies are paving the way for body inclusivity in the industry and reminding us all the necessity to normalize beauty at every size, weight, and color in 2020 (and forever).

Founded by the award-winning leader in luxury and plus-size apparel, Shannell Amstrong Fowler, Chicago-based Haute & Co carries sizes 14 to 32 and also offers custom measurements. Customers can shop from a wide range of designers all the while staying in the range of $1,900 to $4,500 per dress. Their website states, "Known for styling brides from all over the world, the Atelier is the go-to-bridal destination for fashion-forward, yet sophisticated brides who want exclusive designs coupled with private, high-service for their big day. "

If you are shopping with a budget, Igigi is the place for you! This wedding brand sells custom made dresses from sizes 12 to 36 all within an affordable price range. Women can toggle through their dresses and customize necklines and dress lengths to match their dream dress. Take a look at their website; right now we are in love with the Eugenia Wedding Gown in Ivory!

via UnsplashPantora’s mission is to provide fashion-forward dresses in all sizes as well as an understanding that has been lacking in the bridal industry, as they state on their website. They have a wide range of gowns and accessories, as well as collections. Take a look at their 2020 collection “Flight” which has a variety of styles for every bride’s taste.

“We honor curves” is the message behind this Houston based wedding dress boutique that sells gowns for curvy and plus-sized brides.Olivia’s Bridal House has a large selection of designer gowns starting at the price of $1,800. The boutique requires all customers to make an appointment so sales associates can give full attention to brides as they can search for their dream gown. Take a look at these curated photosfrom real brides to take note of what styles you like!

Although not a bridal specific brand, 11 Honoré is known for its size-inclusive collections from athleisure wear to fancier dresses perfect to wear if you are heading to a wedding. The company is a multi-brand retailer that sells exclusive, luxury items that range from sizes 12 to 24. Founder and CEO Patrick Herning told Who What Wear that the fashion industry has a bais towards a curvy figure, going on to say that “thin has always been the lens that the entire industry has been placed under... until now.” Check out 11 Honoré’s collections on their website for the perfect dress (when we can actually go to weddings again).