At Mon Amie, trying on wedding dresses should feel amazing at every size. Our Costa Mesa salon carries samples in sizes 6 to 28, so you can try on designer gowns close to your own size, with a stylist who knows how bridal sizing really works. Our plus size department focuses on couture gowns and what is trending in bridal, from designers like Justin Alexander, Watters, Pronovias and Ysa Makino. Appointments are free, private and about 90 minutes. Book online or call 714-546-5700.
- 6 to 28
- Sample sizes
- 41
- Designers
- $1,300
- Gowns from
Our plus size department
Designers to Try On
Our plus size department focuses on couture gowns and what is trending in bridal. Start with these designers, then ask your stylist to pull from any of our 41 designers.
- Justin Alexander114 gowns
- Watters87 gowns
- Pronovias48 gowns
- Ysa Makino3 gowns
Sizing
How Bridal Sizing Works
Bridal sizes do not match the size on your favorite jeans. Most brides wear a bridal size two to four sizes above their street size, and the exact size depends on the designer and the silhouette: the same bride can be one size in a ball gown and another in a fitted gown. That is normal, and nobody sees the tag.
Your stylist goes by your measurements and the designer's size chart, choosing the size that fits your largest measurement, because taking a gown in is much easier than letting it out. The sample you try on is a guide, not your size: samples have been tried on many times, and some fabrics stretch.
Almost every gown needs some alterations, even if it is only the hem. Our in-house team fits your gown to you; see wedding dress alterations. To hear our stylists talk through plus size bridal shopping, listen to The Tea with Mon Amie, episode 3.
Silhouettes
Silhouettes and Details to Try
No rule says a body shape has to wear one style. These are good places to start, and your stylist will suggest at least one shape you would not have picked yourself.
A-line
A fitted bodice and a skirt that flares gently from the waist. It defines the waist and skims the hips, which is why many plus size brides start here. See A-line wedding dresses.
Ball gown
A structured bodice and a full skirt. The volume balances the hips and makes the waist look smaller. See ball gown wedding dresses.
Mermaid and trumpet
These gowns follow your curves to the knee or just above it, then flare. If you love your shape, show it off. See mermaid wedding dresses, or read trumpet vs mermaid.
Sleeves
Off-the-shoulder sleeves draw the eye to the collarbone, and long or detachable sleeves add coverage and support. See off-the-shoulder and long sleeve wedding dresses.
Support through the middle
A corset back, a structured bodice and lace that runs in one continuous pattern smooth and support the midsection. See corset wedding dresses, or read wedding dresses that flatter the tummy and the best silhouettes for every body type.
Pricing
What Plus Size Gowns Cost
Our gowns range from about $1,300 to $20,000, and most brides spend $2,000 to $4,000. Many designers add a charge for larger sizes, often starting above a bridal size 18, because the gown takes more fabric and a pattern change. Your stylist will tell you whether the gown you love has a size charge before you buy. Alterations are priced separately from your gown.
Shopping on a budget? See our affordable wedding dresses under $2,000.
When to shop
The bridal industry standard is to order your gown 8 to 10 months before your wedding: designers usually take four to six months to make a gown, and alterations take about two months more. On a shorter timeline, ask your stylist about samples you can buy off the floor.
Your visit
Your Plus Size Appointment
Your appointment is free, private and about 90 minutes, with your own stylist. Bring photos of the gowns you love and tell your stylist how you want to feel on the day; there is no wrong answer. You can bring up to 3 guests on Saturdays and 4 to 5 on other days.
Mon Amie Bridal Salon, 355 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Call 714-546-5700.
Plus Size Wedding Dress Questions
What sizes can I try on at Mon Amie?
Our samples run from size 6 to size 28, so you can try on gowns close to your own size. Your stylist then helps you choose your size from the designer's size chart.
What size wedding dress will I wear?
Most brides wear a bridal size two to four sizes above their street size. Your stylist measures you and goes by your largest measurement on the designer's size chart, and alterations take care of the rest.
Do plus size wedding dresses cost more?
Sometimes. Many designers add a charge for larger sizes, often above a bridal size 18, for the extra fabric and pattern work. Your stylist will tell you whether the gown you love has a size charge before you buy.
Which wedding dress styles look best on plus size brides?
A-line gowns and ball gowns are popular starting points because they define the waist, and mermaid and trumpet gowns look stunning on brides who want to show their curves. Try at least two shapes; many brides are surprised by the one they choose.
How far ahead should I buy my wedding dress?
The bridal industry standard is 8 to 10 months before your wedding. Designers usually take four to six months to make a gown, and alterations take about two months more. On a shorter timeline, ask your stylist about samples you can buy off the floor.
Do you alter plus size wedding dresses?
Yes. Our in-house alterations team fits gowns of every size, by appointment. Alterations are priced separately from your gown; plan on about two months.
Do I need an appointment?
Yes. Appointments are free, private and about 90 minutes with your own stylist. Book online or call 714-546-5700.
