Personal Shopper: A black bridesmaid's dress to fit Heather M.'s tall, athletic frame

Heather writes: "My friend is getting married and I need a cute black cocktail dress suitable for bridesmaid attire. I am really tall and have a larger athletic frame so it's hard to find stores that can accommodate that. I am a size 16. I am probably willing to spend high end $250 prefer to keep it around $100-$150. The wedding is July 2nd.....outdoors.... The only requirement is that the dress be black, and not longer than tea-length."

Hey Heather! I, Rachel H., Outblush operative, am also tall and have wide, athletic looking shoulders (although I quickly hide behind a big, fat novel at the mention of anything sporty). You'll want to stay away from anything that visually widens that great expanse of back and chest. I prefer to have some sort of sleeve (although nothing too structured at the shoulder because it probably won't fit right), but if you'd like to go sleeveless, pick something a little more covered up with wide-set straps or detailing at the neck that brings the eye in and up. The dresses I chose should all accommodate a larger build and will look fabulous!

1 - Adrianna Papell Tiered Satin and Chiffon Dress ($158)
2 - Le Bos Woman Flutter Sleeve Dress ($54, on sale)
3 - Adrianna Papell Ribbon Pleat Dress ($180)
4 - Taylor Dresses Ruffle V-Neck Dress ($158)
5 - Kenneth Cole New York Sleeveless Sheath ($139)
6 - Eliza J Sleeveless Cocktail Dress ($98)

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