Big Bust Celebration Dressing: An Evening Gown, an LBD and Some Wishes

I promised Darlene from Hourglassy a May post for her Big Bust Celebration Dressing series, and since it’s the 26th and June is around the corner… well, here we go.

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I’ve looked for an evening gown for years.

Yes, years. Most wouldn’t zip in the back, and if they did…they required some sort of bra-like contraption yet to be invented in my size. The others, well, let’s just say they weren’t my style.

And one day I saw this.

Lauren Ralph Lauren Two-Toned Jersey Gown, mine is a size 16. Image from Dillard’s.com.

Lauren Ralph Lauren Two-Toned Jersey Gown, mine is a size 16. Image from Dillard’s.com.

Lauren Ralph Lauren Two-Toned Jersey Gown, mine is a size 16. Image from Dillard’s.com.

Lauren Ralph Lauren Two-Toned Jersey Gown, mine is a size 16. Image from Dillard’s.com.

The Lauren Ralph Lauren Two-Toned Jersey Gown. Simple. Modern. Elegant. Tops of arms covered, but not too much – I can even wear a “regular” bra. The perfect evening gown for all seasons. Came out of a 12″x10″ bag in perfect condition, not a wrinkle – it even travels well. The only special undergarments necessary will be something to bypass the waist, since the white panel shows lines easily. I do think this dress runs a bit larger than most LRL evening gowns, or perhaps the open shoulder and bateau neckline give my upper half enough room…either way, it fits. Note, my bottom half is usually a 16 LRL, my top half 18 or some other size they haven’t invented.

I stalk Lauren Ralph Lauren out of necessity. One of the few brands to make size 16 and 18, many styles without ruffles or lace, LRL has been my best bet for dressy dress-up. Widely available at most department stores, Lauren is usually easy to find in-store or online.

Last year I found this dress in navy. I do admit I was reluctant to try it, since cowl necklines are just so….big boob. I usually feel designers use them out of laziness, but even I had to admit this dress is flattering, and it accommodates my wide shoulders and large cups. Again, this LRL is wrinkle free and machine washable, great for travel.

Since my LRL navy dress has elbow length sleeves and I live in a hot climate, I’ve been looking for a shorter-sleeved little black dress, preferably one that travels. My mother suggested Travelsmith and since I need a lbd for an upcoming trip, I made a safe bet in the name of big boobs and shoulders on their Voyager dress – again, a drape-neck. Wrinkle free out of the package, machine wash, and plenty of room for my upper half without a strapless or multiway bra. The dress has a built-in slip under the skirt which allows me a wide variety of undergarments without vpl.

PS….

I should mention what I’m still looking for and where I think I’ll find it… A gorgeous, textured evening skirt and blouse to top it off. My favorite stalking spot so far is Jibri. I feel a fall order coming on.

I’m also on the prowl for a strapless/multiway bra. Erica from A Sophisticated Pair has been generous with advice, and so far my to-try list is comprised of Curvy Couture, Elila, Wacoal Red Carpet, and Elomi.