Best Plus Size Dresses to Wear to a Wedding: Style Guide

Finding the perfect plus size dress for a wedding can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide showcases stylish, flattering options that celebrate your curves and suit any wedding guest’s style—from elegant evening gowns to chic cocktail dresses. Discover must-know tips and your new favorite looks, so you can feel beautiful and confident for that special occasion.

Comparison Table: Types of Plus Size Dresses to Wear to a Wedding

Dress Type	Best For	Key Features	Typical Length	Season	Level of Formality
Maxi Dress	All body types	Flowy skirt, defined waist, flutters	Floor/Ankle	All seasons	Formal/Semi-formal
Fit-and-Flare	Hourglass, pear	Cinched waist, A-line skirt, stretch	Knee/Midi/Maxi	All seasons	Semi-formal
Wrap Dress	Most body types	V-neck, adjustable wrap fit	Knee/Midi/Maxi	All seasons	Casual/Semi-formal
Sheath Dress	Rectangle, apple	Straight cut, figure-skimming	Knee/Midi	Spring/Summer	Semi-formal
Empire Waist Gown	Apple, pear	High waistline under bust, flowy	Midi/Maxi	All seasons	Formal
Off-the-Shoulder Dress	Hourglass	Shoulder-baring neckline, romantic	Short/Maxi	Spring/Summer	Semi-formal
One-Shoulder Gown	Pear, hourglass	Asymmetrical neckline, chic look	Knee/Maxi	All seasons	Formal
Babydoll or Smock Dress	Apple, rectangle	Loose fit, gathered waist, whimsy	Mini/Knee	Spring/Summer	Casual
Lace or Chiffon Gown	All body types	Delicate fabrics, feminine details	Midi/Maxi	All seasons	Formal
Jumpsuit	All body types	Structured bodice, wide leg	Full length	All seasons	Formal/Semi-formal

Shopping Guide for Plus Size Dresses to Wear to a Wedding

Choosing by Body Type

Hourglass

Look for: Fit-and-flare, wrap, off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder styles.
Details to try: Belts or defined waists. Styles that emphasize your natural curves, such as bodycon or princess seams.

Pear Shape

Look for: A-line skirts, empire waists, dresses with embellishments or detailing at the top.
Details to try: Cap sleeves, wider necklines, statement earrings to draw the eye upward.

Apple Shape

Look for: Empire waist, shift, and wrap dresses. Styles that skim over the midsection.
Details to try: V-necklines, A-line skirts, embellishments at the hem or sleeve.

Rectangle Shape

Look for: Dresses that create curves, such as peplum, babydoll, and belted dresses.
Details to try: Ruffles, bold prints, gathered waists, sweetheart necklines.

Inverted Triangle Shape

Look for: A-line styles, full skirts, and off-the-shoulder or one-shoulder to soften the upper body.
Details to try: Details or color blocking at the skirt, minimal shoulder embellishment.

Dress Code & Occasion: Pick the Right Plus Size Dress

Casual (Daytime, Outdoor, Backyard)

Styles: Flowy sundresses, floral prints, chiffon maxis, smock or wrap dresses.
Tips: Look for breathable fabrics like cotton, viscose, or soft chiffon. Keep the length to midi or below the knee for ease of movement.
Colors/Prints: Pastels, bright colors, subtle florals.

Semi-Formal

Styles: Fit-and-flare, wrap maxi, tea-length, pretty lace overlays.
Tips: Choose sleeker fabrics and consider details like flutter sleeves, ruffles, or elegant prints.
Colors/Prints: Jewel tones, deep greens, blues, or burgundy.

Cocktail/Evening

Styles: Sheath dresses, sequin minis, A-line midi, off-the-shoulder with statement earrings.
Tips: Opt for darker or metallic hues, and consider dresses with special detailing such as beading or lace. Add heels for polish.

Formal or Black-Tie

Styles: Floor-length gowns, structured jumpsuits, pleated chiffon dresses, one-shoulder or dramatic sleeves.
Tips: Look for elegant fabrics—satin, velvet, silk, or tulle. Prioritize fit and support, especially in bust and waist.
Colors/Prints: Black, navy, jewel tones, metallics, dark florals.

Style Tips for Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses

Current Trends

Puff sleeves, flutter sleeves, and statement shoulders
’90s-inspired mock necks or slip dresses
3D florals, iridescent or metallic fabrics
Ruffles and asymmetrical hems
Bold, saturated jewel tones and romantic pastels

Smart Style Strategies

Use shapewear as needed, but only for comfort and confidence—not necessity.
V-necks or surplice necklines help elongate the neck and flatter the bust.
Cinched or belted waists define your figure and create a classic hourglass effect.
If self-conscious about arms, look for flutter sleeves, bishop sleeves, or sheer long sleeves.
Structured seams, wraps, or ruching all help highlight your favorite features.

Choosing Patterns & Colors

Vertical stripes or prints elongate the silhouette.
Darker backgrounds with lighter prints flatter in photos and brighten up the face.
Don’t fear bold colors; jewel tones are universally flattering.
Florals are perfect for spring/summer; velvet and sequins shine in fall/winter.

How to Accessorize Plus Size Dresses for Weddings

Shoes

Comfort is key; opt for block heels, wedges, or elegant flats depending on the venue.
Metallic sandals go with almost any dress color.

Jewelry

Statement earrings add sparkle to off-the-shoulder and v-necklines.
Delicate necklaces pair with high necklines, while bold collars highlight sweetheart or strapless styles.
Avoid over-accessorizing if your dress has lots of embellishment.

Bags

Choose a small clutch or crossbody. Embellished clutches can elevate a simple dress.

Outerwear

For cool evenings or fall/winter weddings, add a cropped jacket, shawl, or pashmina that complements your dress.

Hair & Makeup

For romantic looks, try soft curls or updos, paired with fresh makeup.
For modern dresses, a sleek ponytail or bold lip completes the look.

Practical Tips & Best Practices for Choosing Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses

Start Shopping Early
Plus size options can sell out quickly, particularly in popular colors or new-season collections.
Check Size Charts & Read Reviews
Sizing can vary between brands. Look for garments with stretch or adjustable features (like wraps, belts, or smocked backs).
Prioritize Comfort
Weddings can be all-day affairs. Choose materials that breathe and allow for movement, especially if you’ll be dancing.
Consider Season and Location
Lightweight fabrics for summer/garden weddings; velvet, long sleeves, or heavier fabrics for cooler months or evening events.
Mind the Dress Code
When in doubt, a midi or maxi in a solid color can be dressed up or down as needed with accessories.
Experiment with Silhouettes
Try styles outside your comfort zone—you may be surprised by what flatters you most. Many modern brands excel at curve-flattering tailoring.
Don’t Shy from Rentals
Renting a formal dress gives you access to high-quality, designer options at a lower cost—perfect for one-time events.
Choose the Right Undergarments
The right bra or shapewear can transform the fit and your confidence. Strapless, plunging, or convertible bras can solve many dress dilemmas.
Think Versatility
Some styles (classic wrap, fit-and-flare) can be worn for multiple occasions with different shoes and accessories.
Tailor for a Perfect Fit
Invest in low-cost tailoring for maxis or specialty dresses. A perfectly tailored dress looks luxurious at any price point.

Comparison Table: Key Features of Popular Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses

Brand	Size Range	Typical Fabrics	Style Highlights	Colors/Prints	Best Suited For	Price Range
Lane Bryant	14-32	Jersey, chiffon	Fit-and-flare, formal, A-line	Solids, florals	Formal, semi-formal	$60-$150
ELOQUII	14-32	Satin, crepe, lace	Dramatic sleeves, wraps, modern	Jewel tones, metallics	Trend-forward/formal	$80-$160
Anthropologie	0-26W	Satin, crepe, mesh	Midi/maxi, flutter or puff sleeves	Florals, solids	Garden, formal, cocktail	$120-$300
ASOS Curve	12-36	Chiffon, poly blend	Party dresses, sequins, trendy	Prints, bold solids	Cocktail, casual, party	$40-$120
Lulus	1X-3X	Chiffon, lace	Empire waist, flutter sleeves	Pastels, burgundy	Spring/summer, semi-formal	$45-$100
City Chic	12-24	Sateen, crepe	Wrap, off-the-shoulder, maxi	Solids, metallics	Formal, cocktail, party	$75-$160
Reformation	14-24	Silk, viscose	Sustainable, romantic, slip, halter	Florals, solids	Formal, garden, destination	$250-$400
Pretty Little Thing	12-26	Poly blend, mesh	Trendy, affordable, occasion	Variety	Casual to semi-formal	$25-$60
Torrid	10-30	Cotton, poly blend	Babydoll, midi, lace dresses	Prints, black, florals	Casual, semi-formal	$40-$90
JessaKae	1X-6X	Cotton, tulle	Babydoll, puff sleeve, whimsical	Pastels, blue	Summer, daytime, garden	$75-$140

Conclusion

Plus size wedding guest dress shopping has never been more exciting. Today’s market offers a wealth of shapes, styles, and colors designed to celebrate every curve and personal taste. Whether you’re attending a garden brunch, seaside ceremony, or elegant black-tie affair, there’s a perfect dress out there for you. Start your search early, choose comfort and confidence, and enjoy every minute celebrating love in style.

FAQ

What styles of plus size dresses are most flattering for weddings?
Fit-and-flare, wrap, empire waist, and A-line dresses tend to flatter most body types by highlighting curves and providing structure without clinging.
How do I choose the right dress for my body shape?
Start by identifying if you’re apple, pear, hourglass, rectangle, or inverted triangle shaped, then seek out styles designed to enhance your best features—like V-necks for apple shapes or A-lines for pears.
Is it okay to wear a plus size dress with prints to a wedding?
Absolutely! Prints, especially florals or subtle patterns, are popular for weddings, especially in spring or summer. Just avoid prints that are overly casual or resemble white bridal wear.
Are there plus size options suitable for black-tie or formal weddings?
Yes. Many brands now offer plus size gowns, jumpsuits, and dresses in luxurious fabrics like satin, chiffon, or velvet—perfect for formal events.
How can I make sure my dress is comfortable for an all-day wedding?
Choose breathable fabrics, consider fit (not too tight or loose), and select dresses with movement-friendly silhouettes. Always try on the dress ahead and move around in it.
What colors should I avoid as a wedding guest?
Traditionally, avoid all-white, ivory, or champagne unless the invitation allows. Some couples also prefer guests to skip red or black, but this varies. When in doubt, ask.
Can I wear a plus size jumpsuit instead of a dress to a wedding?
Yes! Tailored jumpsuits in dressy fabrics are now widely accepted at weddings, especially when styled with heels and elegant accessories.
Should I wear shapewear under my wedding guest dress?
Shapewear is a personal choice. It can smooth lines and provide extra support, but you should only wear it if it increases your comfort and confidence.
Are short dresses appropriate for weddings?
Short or knee-length dresses are fine for casual, cocktail, or some semi-formal weddings. For formal or evening weddings, longer styles are usually more appropriate.
Where can I buy trendy plus size wedding guest dresses?
Popular and size-inclusive retailers include Lane Bryant, ELOQUII, Anthropologie, ASOS Curve, Lulus, Torrid, and specialty boutiques. Rental services like Nuuly also offer designer plus size selections.

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