Cannot face going dress shopping

Hi, you are beautiful just the way you are, no need to worry on what other will say it's your day you can check Princessly they offer customized size dresses a friend of mine bought on them and it is indeed perfect.

Sending hugs to you - it's horrible when what should be a good experience becomes so stressful.

You've got a few options. The first is to take a trip to a shop that specialises in plus-size wedding dresses. I'd give them a ring first, to get a feel for the kind of people they are. If the staff are good at their job, they are going to be kind and reassuring and make you feel good about going there - if they are offhand, scratch that shop off the list and move on!

Another option is to look at high-street or mail order. You don't mention your size, but I know that many of these companies have their dresses in sizes above size 16.

The third option is to ask a local dressmaker to make something for you - if you choose a simple pattern and not-too-expensive fabric, it doesn't have to be that costly.

Or, if you can't find a wedding dress style you like in your budget, maybe think outside the box - look at evening dresses, separates...if it's something that you might be inclined to wear for special occasions in future, you might feel more able to spend a bit more on getting something you really love.

Hang in there - I'm sure you will find something that makes you feel as well as look beautiful!

Hi Caris,

Firstly, I'm so so sorry you're feeling like this. Wedding dress shopping is a labyrinth anyway, and even more so if there's a limited range in your size and the staff behave poorly towards you.

Whereabouts do you live? I know of two plus size stores near Milton Keynes, one called Serendipity Brides, which holds samples up to size 28, and dresses can be ordered up to size 36. The other is called About a Bride - they hold sizes 16-44, and their average size to try on is 28. I only know of them because I live near there, but it's definitely worth googling plus size stores in your area if you haven't already. And think about travelling outside of your area too, if you find a good place that's worth the journey.

How long is it until your wedding? Please don't pressure yourself to lose weight for it - that's the most toxic part of the wedding industry in my opinion. But if you do want to, it's probably best to be realistic about how much you can lose. If there's only a few weeks left you might have to adjust your expectations.

If you're trying to diet and exercise but there are factors getting in the way, don't blame yourself for that. Our mental and physical health is the most important thing. If you put pressure on yourself it may become even harder to get motivated, because your body image/self perception will be so low. Just do what you can, and if you're not enjoying the type of exercise/sport, then stop doing it and pick something else!

Sending so much love!! I really hope you find a dress store that gives you a relaxed, safe experience of trying on dresses, and that you find a dress that makes you feel positive when you look in the mirror! xx