Wedding planning is a wonderfully stressful experience, but the part that makes it all worth it, (you know... apart from actually marrying your partner) is finding that dream dress. It all starts on Pinterest, finding inspiration from models all over the world and picturing yourself in that gown. You travel from door to door, trying on every dress insight from fishtail to ballgown, you have endless styles at your fingertips, that choosing just one dress becomes a challenge! I wish I could say this experience was unanimous for everyone, but the ease of that reality can sometimes depend on your size.
It's no secret that until recently, the fashion industry was selective and made for only those who could fit into a size 8 or below. This vision was unattainable for many, but finally, we saw a sliver of inclusivity in the range of plus-size clothing. Unfortunately, the same etiquette barely extends to wedding dresses, making curvy women compromise on their perfect outfit. Even on popular TV shows such as Say Yes To The Dress, it isn't uncommon to see brides compromising their style because the store cannot provide the size they want.
Many brides pile on the pressure to look their best and force themselves into an intense workout routine a mere few weeks before their day. While we all want to be looking and feeling our best on our wedding day, your shape and size shouldn't determine your happiness. If working out before the wedding is what makes you happy, then, by all means, implement that into your life. However, if the pressure of looking a certain way is making you feel anything less than incredible, don't change your standards or routine and find an outfit that makes YOU feel like a star.
Before we dive headfirst into what this collection is all about, let's take a look at the brains behind the garments. Pronovias is a world leader in the bridal industry; founded in 1922 in Barcelona, this brand houses over 100 stores across the world, in 100 countries. If that isn't impressive, I don't know what is!
Specialists in their craft, Pronovias have partnered with Ashley Graham to create an innovative 16-piece capsule. Graham carries a variety of narratives with her including the supermodel, businesswomen, and body activist. Whichever narrative you have read about, she is sure to have conquered the industry. This motivated individual is on a mission, like many, to tear down the barriers and break stereotypes in the fashion world. Ashley Graham strives to make women across the world feel confident in their skin - regardless of size or shape.
The Collection
Crafted from an intrinsic passion to change the fashion industry, this collection features 15 sensational wedding dresses and 1 tuxedo suit that share a common trait:
They satisfy every body type.
Although occasionally branded as a "plus-size" collection, the aim of this project was to bring about inclusion across the whole range, including larger sizes that are often forgotten about. Whether your body is larger on the top, bottom, or neither, you can find a dress that flatters your body and makes you feel remarkable. Available in sizes 4-38, this collection features a variety of styles so you won't be forced to compromise on anything. There is truly something for everyone, whether you're looking for minimalism, romance, or glamour you can find the perfect dress.
In an exclusive interview with Harper's Bazaar, Ashley Graham explains she was "influenced by her own experience of shopping for a wedding dress". Forced to choose a smaller size with a panel sewn into the back, she reveals she has some "regret" because it wasn't the dress she wished she had. Graham touches on the "importance of inclusion in the fashion industry" and I couldn't agree more. Making each individual feel included and a part of something greater is vital. In a world full of negative narratives, we should hold onto the moments that make us feel as one. Why shouldn't we all get the same choices?
While these wedding dresses are a statement in the fashion industry for their incredible range of sizes (that's UK 4-38 for anyone that has forgotten), there is more to them than you may think. Whichever style you choose your body will be cradled and supported by built-in shapewear and bra. These revolutionary additions mean as the bride and wedding planner, you don't have to think about buying those extra elements.
I know what you're thinking...
A world leader in the industry has partnered with one of the worlds most famous women; these dresses embody everything a bride could ask for - high-quality, built-in bra and shapewear, and the most beautiful array of sizes possible. This collection isn't for the faint-hearted and favours those with heavy wallets. Am I right?
Either way, this is a collection that screams diversity; in style, in size, and in price. The creators of this capsule have tried to keep the cost to a minimum to ensure these dresses are available to as many women as possible. That is the objective at the end of the day.
To suit most budgets, this collection has been priced between £1000 - £3,500; considering the additional shapewear and bra, the price could be justified to meet your budget.
As I write this post, I feel honoured to witness this step in society and I am grateful to share it with you. Looking past the sumptuous designs and silky fabrics, this collection is more than the numerical value it possesses. Yet, it is part of a bigger momentum to make our society and fashion diverse.
Available in-store April, the Ashley Graham X Pronovias collection is ready and waiting.
Until next time,
Ellie x
View the exclusive interview with Harper's Bazaar UK
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