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[theangelalex]

I am looking for advice. I have a formal engagement coming up and that means an evening gown or something really nice. Thing is I don't know anything about dress shopping or any ideas about what type of dress will help deal with the fact that I have really broad shoulders and not all that much of a waist. Does anyone have any ideas?

Comments

[cai1987]

Try going to a dress shop (stores specializing in wedding parties will often provide great service) and getting their opinion. You're not obligated to buy if they help you, and they might have something in stock that you love. Plus they'll generally either do tailoring or know someone who does, and be able to get it fitted just right.

[rainbowxgeek]

I'd recommend having it tailored elewhere, solely because dress shops seem to charge WAY more (probably for the convenience). My best friend's wedding dress needed altering, and she ran into that problem

[cai1987]

Fair enough. I've purchased exactly one formal dress in my life, almost a decade ago, and I've stayed the hell out of dress stores since. They were able to make a pretty terrible experience for me not suck; stands to reason they could help someone who wants to be there. :P

[rainbowxgeek]

Oh I definitely think they can help her find a suitable dress. I just wouldn't have it tailored there, myself.

[regalpewter]

Track down thrift shops that receive donations from the upper end of the demographic spectrum, I have one run by the ladies auxiliary of a hospital where I regularly find very high end items and designer labels at very reasonable prices.
Especially if you have tried dresses on in some of the better dress shops so that you know which cut or style flatters you.
YIS,
WRI

[emiwenis]

Something belted/seams at the waist, like the skirt gets fuller starting higher than the hips - creates the waist. Don't get something off the shoulder, normal or spaghetti straps sleeves are fine, short sleeves maybe only with a forgiving neckline. V-neck line is the best, draws eye center and down, not out to shoulders, don't get too wide of a round/scoop one - that makes shoulders wider.

[aumentou]

I also have wide shoulders and not much of a waist. I find long thin dresses work nicely. Things with either no shoulders or just the tiniest of cap sleeves and a long skirt dropping to the ankles.

Also, if you have or can get a belt that compliments the dress, belting it gives you more of a waist. Slightly loose fabric above, slightly loose fabric below, tight at waistline, result = more obvious waist.

For me, the downside of bare arms is that I start to look like the sort of girl you don't want to be alone with in an alley. I generally help assuage this with long gloves (for formal occasions), or bangles 9for less formal or if I can't get any gloves that go).