Dubai Mall would be the Olympics if shopping was a contest. The mall is all about luxury, glitz, and filled with competition. Well this time, however, the competition is you against the racks. And when you are looking for a plus-size evening dress, it's not just a matter of getting something that fits, but something that makes you look good. That one special piece that makes you feel confident, classy, and set to conquer the room.
Don't fret, I've done the laps around Bloomingdale's, braved the dressing rooms, miracle dresses and lived to tell the tale. You can certainly find stunning plus-size evening dresses here, you just need to have the right approach. Let me walk you through it step by step.
Start at Bloomingdale’s
Bloomingdale's is a dream place to begin when we talk about plus-size evening gowns in Dubai Mall. you must get comfy in the Fashion Avenue wing, this three-story wonderland is packed with designer brands and well-chosen evening collections.
The last time I stepped in, I was welcomed by stacks of glittering gowns that seemed like they would be on a red carpet. The real gem is that it has designers like Adrianna Papell, Mac Duggal, and Marina Rinaldi. All of them are familiar with curves and not afraid of giving best for plus sizing.
Let me share you my little secret! I usually shop here around 11 AM, however you can visit the store between 10 AM to 12 AM. The store is less crowded, staff has time to give you their undivided attention, and you can shop in peace without having to avoid the weekend crowds.
Ask for the Plus-Size Section
Here is the little-thing most scared to ask for: the big person’s reck? This is 100% true that all plus-size dresses are not out in the open. The majority of stores in Dubai Mall carry extended sizes hidden away in the back, and you'd never know they even exist unless you ask specifically.
I remember once standing in front of a shelf full of sequined evening dresses and saying to myself, "Great, none of these will fit." But when I asked one of the saleswomen, she smiled and disappeared into the backroom and came out with three gorgeous dresses my size that weren't even on the shelves.
From that evening the lesson I learned was never think what you see is all that there is. Regardless if you are at Bloomingdale's, Galeries Lafayette, or even Zara in the mall's more modern sections, being courteous will open doors you didn't know were there.
Book a Personal Shopper
Strolling through Mall's 1,200 shops baffles me, so if it does the same to you, book a personal shopper. Both Dubai Mall and Bloomingdale's offer this service, and quite frankly, it's a godsend.
I also used a personal shopper once before a friend's wedding, and it turned what could have been a mad dash into a nice, hassle-free day. They ordered in advance items I was interested in from their size, coordinated rooms to try them on ahead of time, and even escorted me between stores so I wasn't wandering around too much in the maze that is Dubai Mall. It's like having a best friend who just so happens to know where all the things are.
Try Different Cuts
One of the joys of shopping at Dubai Mall is that you’ve abundance of choices for styles. My piece of advice? Just don't restrict yourself. The tag price doesn't matter as much as the cut of the dress. For instance, I once squeezed into an empire waist dress from Bloomingdale's, and the way it skimmed my body without clinging too tightly created the illusion that I was floating.
Dubai Mall provides you with access to everything from A-line dresses to wrap dresses, so utilize it like your style. You might find yourself amazed at what turns out to become most important for you.
Check Alteration Services
Even the most perfect dress sometimes needs some tweaking, and that's when alteration services step in. Stores like Bloomingdale's and Galeries Lafayette provide tailoring in-store, and the turn-around is often quicker than you would imagine.
If you are the person that wants a perfe t fit like me then you must hold on their hands. Because when I once found a stunning navy cocktail dress that fit everywhere except straps, which were dreadfully loose. Instead of losing hope, I referred it to the alteration team, and two days later it was as if it had been made for me. Just don’t miss outthe opportunity, alterations are miracle that transform the dress into the yours gorgeous one.
Look Beyond Labels
Dubai Mall is famous for its luxury giants like Dior, Valentino, and Gucci, but not all the above brands happen to be plus-size friendly. If you limit yourself to the big labels, you might get disappointed.
So, broaden your scope and visit boutiques like Marina Rinaldi, Phase Eight, and Monsoon. Marina Rinaldi, in fact, is a gem and part of the Max Mara group, they offering a plus-size range that's as stylish as they promise their elegance. Always remember sometimes magic is not where the labels are.
Shop During Sales
The best rule is to shop in Dubai is during sales. If you time it right, you can purchase your designer evening dress for half the cost. The cultural occasions as well as weather clearance sales, and even somes sales that ar in December and January for the Dubai Shopping Festival, or June and August for the Dubai Summer Surprises sale.
It was like winning the fashion lottery. Even spring or autumn mid-season sales can surprise you with deals, so keep on top of the calendar before you start hanging out.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask Staff
Dubai Mall shopping can be daunting at times. But the truth is: the staff assistance and kindness is at peak, they are trained to help, and they're great!
They help you with the small details as well as your main concern what designers run large in size to letting you know when fresh inventory arrives! They can save you time and frustration. So, whether it's finding your size, making the fit, or even getting style advice, don't be afraid to talk with them.
Conclusion
Ultimately, plus-size evening dress shopping in Dubai Mall isn't so much about the experience. Begin at Bloomingdale's and don't hesitate to ask about secret sizes, plus don't doubt the magic of alterations.
And here's a teeny tiny bonus tip from my own practice: after dressing and redressing in dress after dress, treat yourself to a coffee break at % Arabica or a snack at Ladurée within Fashion Avenue. It can be a marathon to shop here, but with the proper guide, it’s an enjoyable adventure.
So next time you're at Dubai Mall on the hunt for the ideal evening dress, take a deep breath, follow these simple tips, and enjoy.