I'm a 43 year-old hip woman and mom who enjoys your site. What I'd like is advice about getting a maxi dress. I'm rather busty (38D) and like the look but spaghetti straps just won't do. I need some substantial straps without any seams that either shape or support the bust because they simply won't fit! —Hip Mom from Calgary, Canada

The maxi-dress trend is still going strong, and regardless of your shape or height, the key to pulling off this look will be finding the right cut and style for your figure. Since you have a larger bust, you'll want to avoid spaghetti straps (as you wisely noted) and look for a style that will let you wear a supportive, full-coverage bra underneath. You'll also want a maxi-dress that cinches beneath the bust, then drapes to skim over the tummy and create a flattering line. A v-neck is especially flattering, but you'll want to steer clear of plunging necklines that can lead to overexposure. Now let's find that dress!

First up, I'd like to introduce you to Rachel Pally White Label, a plus-size line from designer Rachel Pally whose known for feminine shapes and sumptuously soft and fluid jersey knits. This label is not cheap, but for those rare occasions when you want to splurge and you can't find what you're looking for anywhere else, I highly recommend checking it out. Here's one example of a brilliant blue maxi-dress from the Rachel Pally White Label line that will accentuate and support a larger bust and show off your curves ($248 at Nordstrom.com):



Next up: This Knot Front Maxi Dress from Lane Bryant features a centered knot detail which creates a cascading effect down the front of this flowing maxi dress finished with a wide ruffle hem. Dress it up or down with your favorite accessories. ($79.50 at LaneBryant.com)



Kmart has a great selection of maxi dresses for summer and carries most sizes, including harder-to-find plus sizes. I was a little iffy about this halter-style maxi-dress but a guest on the Kmart site gave the dress 5 stars and says she has a 38D bra size, so I'll take her word for it! Besides, the island-inspired print is to die for. If nothing else, you can always layer a white tank underneath this dress which will give it more of a fashion-y edge. (Attention Mini Stripe Halter Maxi Dresses, $24.49 at Kmart.com)


Finally, leave it to Target to deliver the right style at a great price. This is my personal favorite, I actually saw it in the store and was so bummed it didn't come in my size. It's just $39.99 and features a subtle tie-dye print in a deep ink blue hue. Bohemian yet contemporary!


What tips would you share for large-busted ladies looking to rock the maxi-dress trend? Where have you found the best styles to fit your figure?