Plus Size Evening Dresses for Formal Occasions – (2024)

FAQs

What dress is most flattering for a plus size? ›

Peplum style dresses are perfect for plus-size shapes. Ruffles at the waist help create the impression of a curvy, hourglass figure. The ruffle wraps around your waistline and flares the dress around the area for a few inches, making the waist look smaller than the shoulders and hips.

Understanding and playing with proportions is crucial in plus-size fashion. Balance is key - if you wear a loose top, pair it with more fitted bottoms, and vice versa. This helps to create a silhouette that is both flattering and stylish. Experiment with different combinations to find what looks best on your body type.

In western countries, a "formal" or white tie dress code typically means tailcoats for men and evening dresses for women. The most formal dress for women is a full-length ball or evening gown with evening gloves.

David's Bridalplus size guide

We're proud to offer plus size wedding dresses, from classic ball gowns to dramatic mermaids, in sizes 14W–30W.

Choose pleats, ruching or excess fabric

Pleated dresses are a seriously flattering addition to any wardrobe. They immediately draw the eye away from the tummy area and give you a loose fit that ensures you feel relaxed and unrestricted, for easy movement.

Wear wrap dresses and blouses that help slenderize your tummy. Layer your outfits with a tailored blazer to streamline your silhouette. Wear clothing with ruching that helps camouflage your tummy. For a flattering look, ensure your tops end just below the hip.

Go For A Fit & Flare Dress

These dresses are fitted at the top and flare out on the bottom. Often times when trying to hide a large belly, we go for drastically oversized pieces that wind up making us look frumpy or boxy. If THAT'S NOT THE LOOK YOU'RE GOING FOR, opt for dresses that create a shape.

Traditionally women are expected to wear a floor length evening dress to a formal wedding. Often a sophisticated and dressy co*cktail dress is also appropriate, however if the bride is traditional we recommend a floor length dress. A full length dress means that the ankle is not visible.

If you have received an invite which states 'formal wear' or 'evening wear' under the dress code, think elegance and sophistication with a touch of glamour. Evening wear generally entails white or black tie and suits for men, and formal dresses, co*cktail dresses or gowns for women.

Can you wear a black dress to a formal evening wedding? ›

However, in today's modern-day age, wearing black to a wedding is completely acceptable, and in many cases, it's even encouraged. “Black is often considered the most formal, polished, and flattering color,” explains wedding expert Ashley Smith.

Plus size wedding dresses styles

A-line dresses, ball gowns, and empire waist dresses are popular choices. A-line dresses are universally flattering, creating a balanced silhouette. Ball gowns offer a fairytale feel, while empire waist dresses emphasize the bust and flow gracefully over the rest of the body.

When it comes to the fashion industry, "plus size" generally refers to clothing labeled size 14 and up in the United States, although this varies by brand and may start anywhere from size 12 to 18. In the UK, it's typically size 16 and up, and in Europe, the sizes usually begin at 44 and up.

In general, A-line dresses, empire waist dresses, and wrap dresses are the most flattering. And remember…you can always add a belt to create the shape you want!

Wear wrap dresses and blouses that help slenderize your tummy. Layer your outfits with a tailored blazer to streamline your silhouette. Wear clothing with ruching that helps camouflage your tummy. For a flattering look, ensure your tops end just below the hip.

Go For A Fit & Flare Dress

These dresses are fitted at the top and flare out on the bottom. Often times when trying to hide a large belly, we go for drastically oversized pieces that wind up making us look frumpy or boxy. If THAT'S NOT THE LOOK YOU'RE GOING FOR, opt for dresses that create a shape.