Fashion is for everyone, and every body shape deserves to be celebrated with style and grace. When it comes to traditional Indian attire, the lehenga is a timeless favorite.
If you’re a plus-size woman, finding the perfect lehenga to flatter your curves can seem challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right style and fit, you can look and feel your best. Let’s explore the best types of lehengas for plus-size in 2024, ensuring you shine at any event!
Note: Always opt for Branded lehenga & Branded Blouse for the perfect outfit. Make sure to Know your Lehenga Size & measure your Dupatta Size before purchasing any lehenga.
Types of Lehenga for Plus Size Women
| Type of Lehenga | Characteristics | Why It’s Flattering | Styling Tips | Example Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A-Line Lehengas | Flares out from the waist, forming an ‘A’ shape. | Large circumference, and lots of volume at the bottom. | Balances hips and thighs, elongate frame. | Light pastel with delicate embroidery. |
| High-Waisted Lehengas | Sits above the natural waistline. | Defines waist, conceals tummy area. | Cropped blouse, well-fitted, drape dupatta loosely. | Bold-colored with intricate detailing at the waist. |
| Panelled Lehengas | Creates the illusion of height and slimness. | Light fabrics like georgette, and vertical patterns. | Silk or satin fabrics, darker shades, monochromatic panels. | Deep emerald green with golden embroidery. |
| Empire Waist Lehengas | Raised waistline starting below the bust. | Blouse with deep neckline, and stretchy fabrics. | Detailed blouse, flowing dupatta. | Royal blue with intricate neckline embroidery. |
| Circular Lehengas | Draws attention to the bust, and hides the stomach. | Balances hips, proportionate look. | Lightweight fabrics like organza or tulle. | Soft pink with minimal embroidery. |
| Straight Cut Lehengas | Streamlined shape, falls straight from the waist. | Creates sleek silhouette. | Vertical stripes, subtle patterns, simple blouse. | Earthy tones with geometric patterns. |
| Mermaid/Fishtail Lehengas | Fitted to knees, flares out at the bottom. | Highlights curves, and showcases hourglass figures. | It Elongates the body, creates a streamlined look. | Midnight blue with sequin embellishments. |
| Lehenga with Long Jacket | Paired with a long jacket for coverage. | Adds dimension, and balanced silhouette. | Structured yet lightweight fabrics, appropriate jacket length. | Plum-colored with long, embellished jacket. |
| Layered Lehengas | Plum-colored with a long, embellished jacket. | Multiple layers of fabric, add volume. | Lightweight fabrics like chiffon or georgette. | Soft lavender with delicate lace detailing. |
1. A-Line Lehengas
A-line lehengas are a classic choice that suits almost every body type, including plus-size figures. The lehenga flares out from the waist, forming an ‘A’ shape, which helps in camouflaging wider hips and thighs. This silhouette provides a balanced look, creating a flattering and elongated appearance.
Styling Tips
- Fabric Choice: Opt for lighter fabrics like georgette or chiffon that add flow without bulk.
- Designs: Go for vertical patterns or minimalistic designs to elongate your frame.
- Blouse: Pair with a well-fitted blouse that offers good support.
Fashion Example: Try a light pastel A-line lehenga with delicate embroidery for a spring wedding.
2. High-Waisted Lehengas
High-waisted lehengas are excellent for defining the waistline and creating an hourglass shape. They sit above the natural waistline, which can help in concealing the tummy area and emphasizing the narrowest part of your torso.
Styling Tips
- Blouse Length: Pair with a cropped blouse to accentuate the waist without revealing too much.
- Draping Style: Drape the dupatta in a way that covers the midsection if you’re conscious about that area.
Fashion Example: A bold-colored high-waisted lehenga with intricate detailing around the waistline to draw attention upwards.
3. Panelled Lehengas
Panelled lehengas have multiple vertical panels sewn together, which adds extra flair and movement. This style can be particularly flattering for plus-size women as the vertical seams create an illusion of height and slimness.
Styling Tips
- Fabric Choice: Choose fabrics with a slight sheen like silk or satin for a luxurious feel without adding bulk.
- Panel Colors: Go for darker shades or monochromatic panels for a slimming effect.
Fashion Example: A deep emerald green panelled lehenga with golden embroidery, perfect for evening occasions.
4. Empire Waist Lehengas
Empire waist lehengas feature a raised waistline that starts just below the bust. This style is particularly beneficial for women with fuller midsections as it draws attention to the bust and away from the stomach area, creating a longer and leaner silhouette.
Styling Tips
- Blouse Design: Opt for a detailed blouse to draw attention upwards.
- Dupatta Style: Use a flowing dupatta to add to the elongating effect.
Fashion Example: A rich royal blue empire waist lehenga with intricate neckline embroidery, ideal for formal events.
5. Circular Lehengas
Circular lehengas have a large circumference and create a lot of volume at the bottom. This style can balance out wider hips and create a more proportionate look for plus-size women. The key is to manage the volume to avoid it overwhelming your frame.
Styling Tips
- Fabric Choice: Stick to lightweight fabrics that flow beautifully, like organza or tulle.
- Blouse: Pair with a simple blouse to balance the volume of the lehenga.
Fashion Example: A soft pink circular lehenga with minimal embroidery, perfect for a daytime event.
6. Straight Cut Lehengas
Straight-cut lehengas have a streamlined shape that falls straight down from the waist to the hem. This style is great for plus-size women as it creates a sleek silhouette without adding unnecessary volume.
Styling Tips
- Pattern Choice: Opt for vertical stripes or subtle patterns to elongate your frame.
- Dupatta: Use the dupatta to add color and interest without overwhelming the look.
Fashion Example: A straight-cut lehenga with geometric patterns in earthy tones, suitable for a contemporary look.
7. Mermaid or Fishtail Lehengas
Mermaid or fishtail lehengas are fitted from the waist to the knees and flare out at the bottom. This style highlights curves beautifully and is ideal for showcasing an hourglass figure. Plus-size women can benefit from this silhouette by choosing the right fabric and fit.
Styling Tips
- Blouse Design: Go for a blouse with a deep neckline to elongate the torso.
- Fabric Choice: Choose fabrics with some stretch to ensure comfort and fit.
Fashion Example: A midnight blue fishtail lehenga with sequin embellishments, perfect for a glamorous evening event.
8. Lehenga with Long Jacket
A lehenga paired with a long jacket can provide additional coverage and create a streamlined look. The jacket adds a vertical line to the outfit, elongating the body and creating a slimming effect. This style is versatile and perfect for plus-size who prefer a modest and elegant look.
Styling Tips
- Jacket Length: Ensure the jacket length complements your height and body type.
- Fabric and Fit: Opt for structured yet lightweight fabrics that don’t add bulk.
Fashion Example: A plum-colored lehenga with a long, embellished jacket, ideal for winter weddings.
9. Layered Lehengas
Layered lehengas feature multiple layers of fabric, which can add volume and movement. When styled correctly, they can be very flattering for plus-size figures by adding dimension and creating a balanced silhouette.
Styling Tips
- Layer Length: Choose layers that don’t add too much bulk but provide enough flair.
- Fabric: Go for lightweight fabrics like chiffon or georgette for a flowing effect.
Fashion Example: A soft lavender layered lehenga with delicate lace detailing, perfect for a romantic look.
Conclusion: In 2024, the fashion landscape for plus-size women continues to evolve with more inclusive and stylish options. Choosing the right type of lehenga can significantly affect how you look and feel. From A-line and high-waisted styles to mermaid cuts and layered designs, numerous options can help you confidently flaunt your curves.
FAQs on Plus Size Lehengas
What type of lehenga is best for plus-size women?
The best types of lehengas for plus-size include A-line, high-waisted, and empire waist lehengas. These styles enhance the natural curves, provide a balanced silhouette, and offer comfort and elegance. They are designed to draw attention to the waist and elongate the body.
How can plus-size women look slimmer in lehengas?
Plus-size women can look slimmer in lehengas by choosing styles with vertical lines, such as panelled or A-line lehengas. Opt for lighter fabrics like georgette or chiffon and avoid heavy embellishments that add bulk. High-waisted lehengas can also help define the waist and create a slimmer appearance.
Are high-waisted lehengas good for plus-size women?
Yes, high-waisted lehengas are ideal for plus-size women as they accentuate the narrowest part of the waist and offer a flattering, elongated look. They help conceal the tummy area and emphasize curves, providing a stylish and comfortable fit.
What fabric is best for lehengas for plus-size women?
Lightweight and flowy fabrics like georgette, chiffon, and crepe are best for plus-size women. These fabrics drape well and do not add unnecessary volume, creating a more flattering silhouette. They offer comfort and ease of movement without compromising on style.
Can plus-size women wear circular lehengas?
Yes, plus-size women can wear circular lehengas. The large circumference and volume at the bottom help balance the figure and create a proportionate look. To avoid bulk, choose lightweight fabrics and minimal embellishments, ensuring a graceful and stylish appearance.
How do you style a lehenga for plus-size women?
To style a lehenga for plus-size women, focus on highlighting the waist and creating vertical lines. Pair with a well-fitted blouse and use the dupatta to add verticality. Opt for lighter fabrics and avoid excessive layering or heavy embellishments to maintain a streamlined look.
What are the best lehenga colors for plus-size women?
The best lehenga colors for plus-size women are darker shades like navy, maroon, and emerald green, which have a slimming effect. Monochromatic and solid colors create a continuous line that elongates the body, making the wearer appear taller and leaner.
Are panelled lehengas suitable for plus-size women?
Yes, panelled lehengas are suitable for plus-size women. The vertical seams help elongate the body and create a slimming effect. Choosing darker colors or monochromatic panels can further enhance the look, providing a stylish and flattering option.
How can plus-size women choose the right lehenga for their body shape?
Plus-size women should choose lehengas that enhance their curves and provide balance. A-line, high-waisted, and lehengas with long jackets are great choices. Lightweight fabrics and avoiding overly bulky designs are key to finding a flattering fit that highlights your natural shape.
Can plus-size women wear lehengas with heavy embroidery?
Yes, plus-size women can wear lehengas with heavy embroidery, but it’s best to balance the design. Opt for detailed work on the blouse or dupatta to avoid adding bulk to the skirt. This approach helps to focus attention on specific areas without overwhelming the overall look.
