No matter your size or shape, your wedding dress should make you feel beautiful and confident. But shopping for plus-size wedding dresses can be overwhelming—especially when it comes to finding the right silhouette and complete bridal look. You'll want to find a style that flatters your figure while spotlighting your favorite assets. Key details to look out for when searching for your dream wedding dress include the dress's silhouette, neckline, length, and fabric. Universally flattering silhouettes like A-line, mermaid, and sheath dresses are always a great choice but don't be afraid to experiment with your unique style and preferences. You'll also want to take your wedding's venue, theme, season, and overall aesthetic into account. Hosting a seaside ceremony? Simple slip dresses or boho designs will suit your style. If you're throwing a formal black-tie affair, stand-out ballgowns and eye-catching embellishments will perfectly complement your wedding vibe. To help you find the best dress for you, we researched various dresses from the very best size-inclusive bridal designers with these helpful features in mind. From elegant gowns for a completely chic walk down the aisle to romantic all-over lace numbers, there's something for every bridal style, season, and budget. Keep in mind that bridal sizing runs differently than regular streetwear. The general rule of thumb is to go up two (sometimes three) full sizes to determine your wedding dress size. If you generally wear a size 16, you will most likely wear a 20 or 22 in bridal. But don't sweat it! Leave it up to the professionals to help you determine the correct bridal size to order. Read on to discover the best plus-size wedding dresses available. Our Top Picks Best Budget: Jump to Review Best Sheer Sleeves: Jump to Review Best for the Boho Bride: BlushFashion Curvy Ivory Bat Sleeves Wedding Dress #1044 at Etsy Jump to Review Jump to Review Most Vintage-Inspired: Jump to Review Best Off-the-Shoulder: David's Bridal Off Shoulder Satin Gown Plus Size Wedding Dress at David's Bridal Jump to Review Jump to Review Most Daring: Jump to Review Best for a Beach Wedding: Show Me Your Mumu Caitlin Ruffle Maxi Dress at Showmeyourmumu.com Jump to Review Best for the Classic Bride: Jump to Review Runs: True to size | Size Range: XS to 3X |Length: Maxi |Materials: 95% polyester, 5% spandex for shell; 100% polyester lining At under $100, you can get this figure-loving Lulus dress to flaunt on your big day. It's a fitted, mermaid-hem gown that offers the right amount of stretch for you to wear comfortable all day long. For brides who prefer a more modest fit, the frock also has a scoop, high-neck at the front and a twisted cut-out on the back for a sexy yet chic look. Price at time of publish: $89 Runs: True to size | Size Range: 0X to 5X |Length: Midi |Materials: Chiffon Expertly placed pleating and unique details make this midi gown flattering and unique. Waist-defining pleats are kind to the midsection, while soft sheer tulle sleeves provide the perfect amount of coverage for cool evening breezes at a summer wedding. We also love the flattering A-line silhouette and the scoop neckline that has a surplice overlay for some extra drama. Made from nylon and spandex, you will have a breathable and stretchy fit for your big day. Price at time of publish: $218 Runs: True to size | Size Range: XXS to 4XL (custom sizes available) |Length:Floor-length |Materials: Lace and slip lining Complete with gauzy three-quarter-length sleeves and a simple slip, this divine lace dress was made for a garden or country wedding. It's designed with a flattering v-neckline and floor-length silhouette to elongate your body. We also love how the front slit and waist sash add some drama to the overall look. Style this stunning dress with nature-inspired accessories and a bouquet made from wildflowers for a boho look. Price at time of publish: $421+ Runs: True to size | Size Range: 16W to 30W |Length:Floor-length |Materials: Lace, illusion, and tulle Dare to bare in this exquisite and sexy illusion gown. This stunning dress hugs your silhouette like a glove and comes with the option of pairing it with a floor-length tulle overskirt for added drama. We also love the lace detailing and flattering V-neckline for some added elegance. Made of breathable polyester and stretchy spandex, the dress is constructed with a mesh power bodysuit for a secure and comfortable fit. Price at time of publish: $1,050 Runs: True to size | Size Range: XXS to 4XL (custom sizes available) |Length:Floor-length |Materials: Lace, tulle, and slip lining In a gorgeous champagne tone, this handmade all-over lace dress is a vintage bride's dream. It has a wrap-top with a universally-flattering V-neckline and floor-length tulle skirt. The entire dress aside from the sleeves is lined with the brand's signature stretchy fabric for all-day comfort. Add a simple grosgrain ribbon to add a personalized touch to your wedding-day look. Price at time of publish: $422+ 18 Best Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dresses Runs: Small | Size Range: 16W to 30W |Length:Floor-length |Materials: Satin The slightly off-the-shoulder neckline and floor length make this stunning gown a no-brainer for black-tie weddings. Made from breathable polyester, it features a tapered and waist-cinching bodice that flows seamlessly into a structured and regal full skirt. It has a chapel train that will make it seem as if you're floating down the aisle. And if that isn't enough to make you love this dress, it also has trendy side pockets—a huge plus in our book. Price at time of publish: $699 Runs: True to size | Size Range: 14 to 28 |Length: Jumpsuit |Materials: 92% polyamide, 8% spandex Who said jumpsuits weren't in? If you're searching for something different to wear on your wedding day, an all-white jumpsuit with subtle (or not so subtle) details is a must. We love this Eloquii jumpsuit in particular because it perfectly enhances your silhouette, beginning with the fitted v-neck bodice to the lengthy wide leg bottoms. Perfect for stepping out onto the dance floor, or even to just emulate the disco and charm of Saturday Night Fever. Price at time of publish: $179 Runs: True to size | Size Range: 16W to 26W |Length:Floor-length |Materials: Stretch crepe If you're a bride-to-be who loves a sleek silhouette with a touch of drama, opt for this dress by Tadashi Shoji. It has a plunging neckline and front slit for a bold, daring look, and the twist detail adds a modern touch. While it's designed to hug your curves effortlessly, the floor length still allows it to elongate your body. It's made from polyester and spandex for a comfortable fit and pairs well with an ivory veil. Price at time of publish: $995 Runs: True to size | Size Range: XXS to 3X |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Chiffon If you want to show some skin but don't want to go for a strapless look, opt for a cold-shoulder dress like this one from Show Me Your Mumu. This easy-breezy maxi dress is ideal for a beach wedding and is bra-friendly, to boot! It's made of polyester chiffon and has adjustable straps for a custom fit. You can also opt for a more simple and straightforward silhouette with this pick by wearing the ruffle underneath your arms. The scoop neckline will help elongate your neck as well. Style it with pearl drop earrings and block heels for a completed look. Price at time of publish: $98 The 24 Best Beach Wedding Dresses of 2023 Runs: Small | Size Range: 2 to 34 |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Dove satin Dramatically float down the aisle in this incredibly classic dove satin gown by Stella York. It features a strapless straight neckline, fabric-covered infinity buttons, and pockets. The straight neckline and infinity buttons, in particular, add a touch of elegance. Meanwhile, the lace-beaded trim throws in some extra sparkle. Even better, the ballgown silhouette flatters any body type, so you'll feel confident and beautiful on your big day. Price at time of publish: Available upon request 20 Timeless Wedding Dresses for the Classic Bride Runs: True to size | Size Range: 16W to 26W |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Satin Classic brides will love the simplicity of this beautiful bodice and skirt combo. The versatile sweetheart bodice can be worn with or without the delicate straps, meanwhile, the skirt has a wide waistband to compliment the draped, floor-length silhouette. Made of polyester with a full lining, this dress will feel comfortable enough to wear all day long. Price at time of publish: $200 Runs: Large | Size Range: XXS to 3X |Length: Midi |Materials: Luxe satin If you're saying "I do" on the beach or in your backyard in the summer, a short and sweet dress like this one is the way to go. This romantic style from Show Me Your Mumu features a flattering wrap silhouette, V-neckline, and flirty ruffle trim that lines a sexy side slit. Made from luxe satin polyester, the back is high enough to be strapless bra-friendly, and it has a secure elastic waist. Pair this with hoops and block ankle-strap heels for a complete look. Price at time of publish: $188 25 Stunning Summer Wedding Dresses for Every Style and Budget Runs: Small | Size Range: 0 to 28 |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Sequin-embellished lace motifs and beading This look includes a trumpet silhouette, a square-neckline, and a doubled-beaded band to accentuate the waist. A dramatic overskirt adorned with a matching embellished lace design completes the look for an incredible walk down the aisle. We also love the elegant fabric-covered buttons that accompany the plunging V-neck back. However, what really makes this dress stands out is the amount of customization the designer offers—you can get two looks in one by opting to add a detachable tulle train. Price at time of publish: Available upon request Runs: Small | Size Range: 2 to 28 |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Matte Mikado This Essense of Australia gown will accentuate your curves for an incredibly dramatic and chic bridal look. The fitted mermaid silhouette paired with its ruched bodice and sharp sweetheart neckline makes it impossible not to love. We also love the dreamy button detailing on the back that extends all the way to the end of the full train. Made of Matte Mikado polyester, it has a thicker and luxurious feel that's suitable for fall and spring weddings when the weather is cooler. Price at time of publish: Available upon request Runs: True to size | Size Range: 14 to 28 |Length: Mini |Materials: Polyester We are all about flaunting your best assets so if you love your legs and don't want to stick with a traditional floor-length gown, consider showing them off in a short dress. This gorgeous number from Eloquii's bridal line is perfect for a laidback wedding or for ultra-chic courthouse nuptials, thanks to its detachable puff sleeves and organza cape and fitted bodice that surely scream "I do." Price at time of publish: $159 Runs: True to size | Size Range: 16W to 30W |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Lace sheath With a strapless neckline and straight silhouette, this gown is sleek, structured, and modern. Constructed from polyester and spandex, this dress will hug your curves in all the right places. We also love how the elegant and chic fabric makes for a romantic and timeless look, while the high slit adds a bit of sexy flair. Price at time of publish: $170 Runs: True to size | Size Range: 16W to 30W |Length: Floor-length |Materials: Tulle You'll be sure to stun at every angle in every photo in this jaw-dropping puff sleeve dress featuring a low scoop back and neckline. The embroidered floral overlay adds a touch of boho whimsy while the empire waiste silhouette flatters your curves. Made from polyester, this dress has a structured and soft fit. Price at time of publish: $1,099 No matter your size or shape, it's important to find a wedding dress that enhances your figure and fits you perfectly. Before you start your search, it's helpful to identify what dress silhouettes work best for your body as well as what features you're looking to highlight. If you're not sure where to begin, look to universally flattering silhouettes like A-line, mermaid, and sheath dresses. Certain details like floor-length gowns and V-necklines are also great for elongating the figure and spotlighting your décolletage. Other necklines, such as halter and off-the-shoulder, are great for highlighting your shoulders and back. Lastly, don't forget to take fabrics into account. Supportive fabrics, such as satin and mikado, are perfect for a structured fit whereas lightweight chiffon and organza fabrics are best for a more relaxed look and feel. FAQ What are the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for plus-size brides? Some of the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for plus-size brides are A-line, mermaid, ball gown, and sheath gown. That said, brides should always feel empowered to experiment with all different types of silhouettes. What matters is that you feel like your best, most confident self as you walk down the aisle and celebrate your special day. Where can I find a plus-size wedding dress? Online retailers like BHLDN, David's Bridal, and Torrid (to only name a few!) offer beautiful plus-size wedding dresses at every price point. If you're planning to shop at a bridal salon, make sure to call the salon ahead of time to ensure that they have your size to try on (and order) during your appointment. What should I wear under my gown? No matter your size or shape, we suggest brides wear undergarments like seamless underwear or shapewear. You'll need to take your wedding dress silhouette, neckline, and materials into consideration when looking for bridal undergarments, as you'll want to ensure it's hidden beneath your dress. Contributing writerSophie Mooreis a former fashion editor atBridesand is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, guests, wedding parties, and more. 25 Best Plus-Size Bridal Party Outfits of 2023 for Every Style and BudgetBest Sheer Sleeves
Kiyonna Meant To Be Chic Wedding Dress
Best Off-the-Shoulder
David's Bridal Collection Off Shoulder Satin Gown Plus Size Wedding Dress
What to Look for in a Plus-Size Wedding Dress
Fit and silhouette
Material
Why Trust Brides
FAQs
What is the best wedding dress to show curves? ›
Wedding Dresses for Hourglass Figures
For our brides with hourglass figures, a fitted style is destined to highlight your curves! Fit-and-flare and mermaid wedding dresses are sure to look stunning. Gowns with plunging V-necklines, wrap dresses, and strapless gowns are also fabulous choices for hourglass figures.
Some of the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for plus-size brides are A-line, mermaid, ball gown, and sheath gown. That said, brides should always feel empowered to experiment with all different types of silhouettes.
How do you go to the bathroom in a big wedding dress? ›You stand over the toilet facing the back (like a guy) but straddle either side with your legs and crouch, or sit if you can, with a bridesmaid holding the dress up from behind. Alternatively, your friends might be able to join you in an accessible bathroom and hold the dress up on all sides while you pee as normal.
What color shows curves the best? ›In fact, white accentuates your curves, neutralizes any other cold color and makes any outfit look crisp and clean.
What is the most flattering wedding dress neckline for large bust? ›Square necklines are great for this, as are subtle V-necklines and higher-backed strapless options. Soft scoop or cowl necks are another option to look at, as they are subtle and romantic and work really well for bigger busts.
How many pounds does it take to lose a wedding dress size? ›5-20 pounds to go
It will depend on where you lose weight from, how your body composition of muscle and fat shifts and how much you actually end up losing how the dress will fit you in the end but I good bridal store will be able to support you on this journey.
- Pick the right colors. Wearing the right colors can instantly improve your look. ...
- Wear well-fitting clothes. ...
- Figure out your style. ...
- Elongate your legs. ...
- Wear layered outfits. ...
- Buy great footwear. ...
- Add one luxury accessory. ...
- Wear timeless clothes.
Wear leggings or skinnies with longer, draped or asymmetrical tops. Leggings or stretchy pants that tuck in the tummy will be your best friend. They will fit comfortably around your belly and tuck it in a bit. Also, with so many wonderful tunics and long tops to choose from, you will look fabulous.
What makes a wedding dress puff out? ›Floofy isn't just for Little Girls In our family, fluffy is pronounced “floofy” and it means you have a slip under your dress and it makes your dress puff out.
How do you make your waist look smaller in a wedding dress? ›The Best Bridal Shapewear for Underneath Your Wedding Dress
Corset: a corset cinches at the back, often with laces that tighten, to help slim your waist. For ladies wanting tummy control and muffin top control, a corset may be a good option.
What makes wedding dress puffy? ›
Typically, a skirt is made poofy by layers of tulle, a hoop skirt or horsehair, which gives the skirt structure. For even more volume, brides can add a slip with full layers of tulle under the dress.
How can I make my curves more noticeable? ›Increase your cardio workouts.
To burn fat, you need to work out 5-6 days a week, and increase your cardio workouts to at least 45 minutes each. Switching from 30 minute workouts to 1 hour workouts can improve your tone and fat loss greatly. Your curves will get more pronounced faster.
The premise of the 3-color rule is not combine more than three colors in your outfit at any one time. The exceptions are black and white — they don't count, as they aren't technically colors, so they can be intermixed without actually adding a color to your outfit.
How do you dress cute with curves? ›- Strike the right balance between fitted and too tight. ...
- Everybody should have a shapewear arsenal. ...
- Don't wear leggings as pants. ...
- When in doubt, reach for a pencil skirt. ...
- No outfit is complete without the right shoes. ...
- Shop through any weight changes.
The V neck and plunging necklines are great for slimming the chest as they draw the eye down to your waist from your bust. Look for a bodice design that creates a horizontal or diagonal line between shoulder and waist, which lengthens and draws the eye to your slimmest parts.
What is the most universally flattering dress shape? ›The Classic A-Line Gown
This classic style, which features a fitted bodice and a flared skirt, is widely hailed as one of the most universally flattering dresses. Almost every woman looks good in an A-line dress. Choose one with a well-structured bodice to flatter both curvy and athletic body types.
Size | Weight | Height |
---|---|---|
2X | 205 - 230 lbs | 5'9" - 6'4" |
3X | 230 - 270 lbs | 5'9" - 6'4" |
4X | 270 - 325 lbs | 5'9" - 6'4" |
5X | 320 - 375 lbs | 5'9" - 6'4" |
When should I stop shedding pounds in preparation for my wedding? Approximately 2–3 weeks before the wedding. Between now and the big day, try not to lose any more weight. This is something your seamstress will most likely tell you as well.
When should you start losing weight for wedding? ›Two months prior to your wedding day is plenty of time to lose up to 10 pounds by following a healthy weight loss plan. If you are trying to lose more than that, you may need to give yourself additional time.
How to look 20 pounds thinner? ›- Pay attention to vertical lines. These lines in seams, ...
- Steer clear of bulky fabrics like boucle and heavy wools. ...
- Keep embellishments to a minimum. ...
- To instantly appear more slender, try wearing the same. ...
- Don't wear clothes that are too large or too small.
Which fabric makes you look slim? ›
Cotton, denim, silk, or wool gabardine are generally on the slimmer side and won't add any extra volume. Wide wale corduroy, on the other hand, along with crushed velvet, leather, suede, mohair, angora, taffeta, boucle, and flannel, tend to be a bit bulkier.
How to look expensive plus size? ›The key to having expensive-looking outfits is by pairing them with simple, good-quality shoes and accessories. Add a pair of pumps and statement jewelry to dress up a look. I personally like to go for simple, good-quality jewelry to add to my outfit. Structured purses and belts can also make a difference in your look.
How to wear a dress with big stomach? ›- Do not wear tight clothing on your belly, favouring “smart” draped tops instead. ...
- Wear leggings or skinny jeans with longer tops, also draped or with asymmetric cuts. ...
- Create vertical lines with long cardigans, slim fit coats and long blazers.
Choose Tops with a V-neck
Other elements of this outfit promote the idea of a slender body: the long V-neck attracts the eyes vertically, making the silhouette seem longer (and not wider). The long sleeves also give the illusion of a slimmer figure.
- Add cardio. Share on Pinterest Running is effective in trimming a person's midsection. ...
- Eat more fiber. ...
- Limit refined carbs. ...
- Increase protein intake. ...
- Do exercises while standing, not sitting. ...
- Add resistance training. ...
- Eat more monounsaturated fatty acids. ...
- Move more.
One issue that you may find yourself worrying about — even after you've lost weight — is called FUPA. The acronym FUPA stands for “fatty upper pubic area.” In some instances, FUPA can both cause physical problems and negatively impact your self-esteem.
How do you hide back fat rolls in a dress? ›- Wear Proper Fitting Clothing. Wearing fitting clothes is the most important thing when hiding those pesky back rolls. ...
- Layer Smartly. A great way to disguise back rolls is by layering clothes in a way that draws away attention from the area. ...
- Wear Shapewear. ...
- Use Accessories. ...
- Embrace It.
Of the 88 guys we surveyed, 48% would like to see their future bride in a fitted gown, and only 28% prefer her in a ball gown. As we suspected, 31% said they could care less about the shape of their lady's wedding dress.
What are puffy dresses called? ›Crinolines continue to be worn well into the 21st century, typically as part of formal outfits such as evening gowns, prom dresses, quinceañera dresses, and wedding dresses. 1950s and 1960s style net crinolines are a traditional element of costumes for square dancing and clogging.
How do I make my hips look smaller in a wedding dress? ›Wearing bright colours, busy patterns, metallics and glitter will all attract attention to the upper body. Why not try a flattering deep v-neckline or a shoulder-flaunting piece and you'll immediately reduce the size of your hips by redirecting attention to another area of you figure.
How can I make my body look thinner in a dress? ›
Instead choose full A-line skirts and dresses as well as wide-leg pants ... always with a fitted top. If you're a top gainer, forget tight tees and slim-fit button-downs and pair puff sleeve tops, dropped-shoulder sweaters and oversized shirts with slim bottoms. It's all about playing with proportions.
How do you hide fat arms in a wedding dress? ›Also, the placement of the design on a sleeve, such as a lace applique can be very sliming and it can be a great design option for brides who want to cover their arms. In addition to full sleeves, straps, off the shoulder sleeves, and cap sleeves are great options to consider if you want to cover or slim your arms.
Is it better to get a bigger wedding dress? ›If you do choose to purchase something outside of your typical size, don't forget that it is always better to purchase a gown in a larger size rather than a smaller size. "We can always make a gown smaller, but it is harder to make a gown larger," says Sacco.
How do you dress to emphasize curves? ›- 1) Colour Blocking. ...
- 2) Focus on Clothes Tailor-Made for Your Body. ...
- 3) Wear A Belt. ...
- 4) Try High Heels. ...
- 5) Wear Clothes with A Lower Neckline. ...
- 6) Consider Wrap-Style Dresses and Tops. ...
- 7) Stick to Fitted Clothes. ...
- 8) Consider Off-The-Shoulder Tops.
In order to best accentuate your curves, your clothes should be formfitting but not tight, nip in at your waist, hug your hips, and fall loosely over your thighs and calves. If you want to create curves on a slimmer figure, you can make your clothing tailored so it's slightly more formfitting, but not skintight.
How do you make it look like you have curves in a dress? ›Use colorblocking to create the illusion of a curvier shape. Look for colorblock tops with side panels that taper in toward the waist. At a glance, all you'll notice is the middle panel, and everything on the sides will sort of fade away.
How do you look good in a dress with a belly? ›- Shift the show to your legs. ...
- Dress in one color. ...
- Lose your belly in midis and maxis. ...
- Trim your torso with an open jacket. ...
- Hide your belly with a closed double-breasted jacket. ...
- Untuck your tops. ...
- Go big on top, narrow on bottom. ...
- 8. Make a big statement somewhere else.
- Wear the right fit. If you want to dress professionally when you are overweight, wear clothes that fit you properly. ...
- Pick neutral colors. ...
- Follow the dress code. ...
- Wear dress pants. ...
- Try on a suit. ...
- Get stylish shoes. ...
- Craft layered outfits. ...
- Add one luxury accessory.
Curves are breasts, hips, butts thighs, etc. and their ratio in comparison to waistlines and other parts of the body. With this in mind, one can be petite and still be considered curvy. In the same way, one could be plus size and also be considered curvy.
How should I dress to accentuate my hips? ›Loose and asymmetrical tops emphasize the upper body. Waisted tops, short cut jackets/blazers and trousers with high waist balance the proportions. Slightly flared skirts and dresses fall over the hips in a flattering way.
What type of dresses make you look curvier? ›
Anything that snuggly fits on the narrower part of the waist and flares out in the shape of the alphabet “A” is an A-line style. This consists of everything from a skater skirt to a full length maxi dress that flares out at the hemlines. This draws attention outside the body lines making one look curvaceous.
What makes curves attractive? ›To put simply, curves are attractive because they signal – fertility and health. Women who are more shapely are seen as more fertile and have bodies which are better equipped for child bearing.
How to dress hourglass overweight? ›- Accentuate the waist with belts or nipped garments.
- Wear darker colours around your waist area - such as a dark belt.
- Steer clear of straight cuts and boxy styles, that hide the waist.
Black never fails to make you look slim and elegant. Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame.
What makes a wedding dress stand out? ›Fabric. Personal style, texture, movement and your wedding season are all important factors when considering different wedding dress fabrics. One dress could look and feel drastically different if you made it using two different fabrics, since each material is designed to produce a distinct effect.