Unfortunately "off the rack" stores generally don't carry plus size dresses like this, although if you look for a plus size store that specializes in larger clothing you can find something better tailored to your shape/figure.
Along with the many dresses and skirts you can buy at Macy's, you can also purchase plus size cocktail dresses there. I looked online at their site, and the prices seem reasonable by their standards.
Often the clothing web sites you already use have plus sizes available, which can be found inside the cocktail dress size drop-down box, or by searching the category Plus Size, depending on the web site. However, whole sites are dedicated just to plus size cocktail dresses, or to plus size clothing. Sites such as Fashion Bug, Avenue and Lane Bryant all feature plus size cocktail dresses. Other sites are for the niche shopper, looking solely for plus size cocktail dresses. Some of those sites are Figuresque, Alight, and Torrid.
Plus-sized cocktail dresses can be as inexpensive as a few dollars at a thrift or second-hand store to thousands of dollars at a designer boutique. In general, you might pay a couple hundred dollars for a suitable cocktail dress.
When looking for a flattering plus size dress, you should consider the style and print of the dress before purchasing. Try to find a solid color dress or one that does not have a lot of large print across the bodice. Look for a dress that has a structured form and avoid dresses that are loose fitting. When choosing a length, try to find a dress that ends mid-calf or just above the knee. Stay away from dresses that are too tight or that have big bows in the back, as they will not be flattering.
IhaveonceboughtadressonMilanoo.Itlooksingoodqualityandasprettyasitshowsonthepictures.Mydressiscustom-madesoIwaitforalittlelong,aboutonemonth.IfindthatMilanoolunchesmanyplussizecocktaildressesinvariousdesignsandcolorsandyoushouldtakealook.
Macy's has a great selection of plus sized cocktail dresses. You can look through their in-store selection or browse their pages of dresses online. They also have a great return policy, if needed.
A search of LaneBryant.com comes up with two matches for party dresses. a satin cocktail dress and a sleeveless black velvet party dress. Both are available in plus sizes. Here's the link to look at them http://www.lanebryant.com/catalog/search.cmd?form_state=searchForm&x=0&y=0&keyword=cocktail+dresses.
There are some great online stores that carry plus size cocktail dresses. Try Kiyonna, which is available at http://www.kiyonna.com/plus-size-clothing/Cocktail.html. You can also try browsing Avenue's online collection, which is available here: http://www.avenue.com/womens/clothing/plus-size-cocktail-dress.
Nordstrom, with many locations including California, is a great place to find dresses for any occassion. They have dresses ranging from eving wear, to weddings, to cocktail attire. And, sizes range from junior to plus size depending on the style.
Plus size cocktail dresses are typically sizes 18 and above. Some stores start at 16 while others go up to size 22. Generally speaking though, a good rule of thumb is 18.
Needing to find plus size formal wear can mean launching a full on hunt for the perfect plus size cocktail dress. Many women fall into the trap of trying to hide their bodies' imperfections with too many ruffles, ribbons, patterns and other adornments. These additions only add extra pounds and inches, though, while a solid colored plus size cocktail dress with a plunging v-neckline will elongate your body's shape. The result is a much slimmer overall silhouette. Make your dress one in a dark color to maximize this flattering effect and add a fun pair of sling back style pumps.
Wow, there are many good stores for this! A few of them are JCPenney, Sears, Wal-mart, Cato, Target, Maurices, SimplyBe, Igigi, Zappos, Jessica London, Lane Bryant, and Avenue. one of my fav stores-Globetrendy, it offers customize service, :) and it's free :D