Igigi Plus Size Style: What to Wear on a Dinner Date

When was the last time someone told you that you're beautiful? When was the last time you felt like you were? Shouldn't tonight be the night? Beauty comes from the inside, and a romantic dinner date is an opportunity to let that inner beauty shine through. But our best characteristics can be masked or overshadowed by a lack of confidence in the way we look.

If you nervously walk into a room, frantically pulling down a too-small shirt in the back, and unable to stand because the shoes you're wearing are hurting our feet-that's the only image you're going to project; that of being nervous, frantic, and uncomfortable. Conversely, if you slouch into a restaurant in scuffed shoes and baggy clothes that make you look like you just came from the gym, you're going to give the impression that you don't care enough about your date or yourself, to make the effort.

It's important for a plus size women to dress comfortably in beautiful clothes that celebrate her curves and fit her body. After all, beauty is not a function of size-you can look fabulous whether you're a size 2 or a size 32. And fabulous doesn't have to mean the same cookie-cutter dress for every plus size woman. The key is dressing for your body-type and finding a personal style.

For the Working Girl
Don't use work as an excuse to be frumpy; you can easily wear something like Igigi's timeless wrap dress for a day at the office, and dress it up for a date with a pair of sparkly earrings at night. The poly/spandex knit jersey is lightweight and stretches as you move. The cobalt blue is the most versatile color-appropriate for day or night-and the most striking feature about this dress is the classic silhouette. Even if you're a busy woman on the go, it'll take you no time at all to throw this dress on and slide on a pair of boots.

For the Glamour Gal
If your dinner date is more formal, go ahead and indulge your inner diva. Dressing up for your date will make you feel more confident, and allow you to spend your time talking by candle-light, enjoying yourself, and enjoying your meal. For nights like this, the Alluring Dress in Black/Blue would give anyone the boost of confidence they need. The sheer mesh is something right off a Hollywood runway, but the bra-friendly straps are made for every day plus size women. The high waist will draw attention to the smallest part of your body, and the lace details will remind you that you deserve to be pampered. When your date sees you in this dress, it'll likely take his breath away. When you see yourself in the mirror, it might take your breath away too.

For the No-nonsense Sophisticate
If the glamour, lace and length of the Alluring Dress don't capture your personal plus size style, that's ok! Check out this practical Brigitte Dress with a flattering neckline, an empire waist, and a skirt that floats away from the body. If you're self-conscious about the tummy and hip area, this dress is perfect for your body-type. It comes in rich saturated colors that give it a modern look, all with a hint of shimmer. And there won't be any tugging or fidgeting. You won't have to worry that this dress is too stiff or too tight because it's made with a lightweight poly/lycra knit jersey. But the most remarkable thing about the Brigitte dress is its versatility. Dress it up for a fancier dinner date by adding a sparkly bag and some silver heels, or dress it down for a more casual restaurant by accessorizing with a thick rope of beads. Don't be afraid to buy this dress in the wine color; it's spectacular.

For the Modest Country-Gal
The Sarafan dress comes in a number of lovely prints. It's paired with a modest shrug that will banish any insecurity you might have about your upper arms, or an evening chill. With an empire waist and bra friendly straps, this dress is sugar-sweet. The Strawberry/Multi pattern is especially girlie and harkens back to summer dances and late night walks by the ocean. The skirt ensures that it flows in all the right places and doesn't cling to any of the wrong ones.

For the Adventuress
Maybe your dinner date is more of an impromptu, outdoor affair. While the weather is still warm, patio picnics and moonlit rooftop dining are the stuff that dreams are made of. They call for a flirty look, something just this side of gypsy. So for that kind of date, the Carmen Dress in Sangria might be just what you're looking for. The deep adjustable neckline is sexy without being seductive. If you're tall, you'll especially love the line of this dress, and all its tiered layers. The flowing sleeves and the paisley print are loose-fitting and undeniably romantic.

Whatever your personal style, there's a perfect dress for you to wear on your dinner date. Don't try to hide the real you under frumpy layers; don't try to divert attention away from yourself. This night is about you and your date. You should be noticed.

And you will be, wearing one of these fabulous dresses.