What Kind of Wedding Dress Looks Best on Plus Size Brides?
Every bride deserves to feel radiant, confident, and beautiful on her wedding day, regardless of size. If you’re a plus-size bride, finding the perfect wedding dress isn’t just about the fit—it’s about choosing a style that celebrates your unique beauty, accentuates your favorite features, and makes you feel absolutely stunning. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the wedding dress of your dreams.
1. Start with the Right Silhouette
The silhouette is the foundation of your dress. Certain silhouettes work particularly well for plus-size brides, offering both comfort and style. Here are the top choices:
A-Line
An A-line dress is universally flattering, featuring a fitted bodice that gradually flares out from the waist to form an “A” shape. This silhouette highlights the waist while skimming over the hips and thighs, creating a balanced, elegant look.
A Line plus Size Wedding Dress | Style Lottie
Ball Gown
If you dream of a fairytale moment, the ball gown is a classic choice. With a fitted bodice and a full skirt, it emphasizes your waist and provides a regal, dramatic appearance. This style works wonderfully if you want to highlight your upper body and create a dramatic silhouette.
Ball Gown shape plus size wedding dress, photo by LucyLou photography
Style: Marnie
Mermaid and Fit-and-Flare
For brides who want to embrace their curves, mermaid or fit-and-flare dresses are perfect. These styles hug your body through the bust, waist, and hips, then flare out below the knees. They create an hourglass effect, drawing attention to your figure in all the right ways.
Empire Waist
An empire waist dress features a high waistline just below the bust, with the rest of the dress flowing freely. This style elongates the body, providing a soft, romantic look that’s especially flattering for those who want less focus on the midsection.
Empire line plus size wedding dress | style Kelly
2. Focus on Fabrics That Flatter
The fabric of your dress can significantly influence its overall look and feel. Some fabrics work better for plus-size silhouettes:
• Structured Fabrics: Satin, mikado, and taffeta provide structure, smoothing out curves and offering a polished appearance.
Mikado is a beautiful satin sheen fabric | Style : Laura
• Lightweight Fabrics: Chiffon and organza are great for flowing, ethereal looks, especially for outdoor or beach weddings.
Chiffon Plus Size Wedding Dress | style: Faye
• Lace and Embroidery: Textured details like lace can add elegance and sophistication while offering extra coverage where desired.
3. Necklines That Highlight Your Best Features
The neckline of your wedding dress can frame your face and emphasize your favorite features. Here are a few flattering options:
• Sweetheart Neckline: Perfect for showcasing your décolletage and elongating your neck.
• V-Neck: A deep V-neck can create a lengthening effect while adding a hint of drama.
• Scoop or Square Necklines: These classic shapes provide support and balance, especially for fuller busts.
Boat/scoop neckline wedding dress | style Sophia
• Illusion Necklines: Combining sheer fabric with lace or embellishments, illusion necklines add a touch of romance and subtle coverage.
illusion neckline | style Laura
4. Sleeves and Straps for Support and Style
For brides who prefer a bit more coverage or support, consider dresses with sleeves or straps:
• Cap Sleeves: Offer a delicate, feminine touch while lightly covering the shoulders.
Cap sleeve plus size wedding dress
• Long Sleeves: Lace or sheer long sleeves can add elegance while providing coverage for cooler seasons.
• Wide Straps or Off-the-Shoulder: Wide straps offer support, while off-the-shoulder designs create a romantic, timeless look.
Off shoulder plus size wedding dress | style Aida
5. Accentuate Your Waist
Defining your waist is key to creating a flattering silhouette. Look for these waist-defining features:
• Belts or Sashes: Adding a belt or sash can highlight your waistline and add a pop of sparkle.
• Ruching: Dresses with ruching or gathered fabric at the waist create a slimming effect.
• Corset-Style Bodices: A built-in corset can provide structure and support while accentuating your curves.
6. Don’t Forget the Undergarments
The right foundation garments can make a world of difference. High-quality shapewear or well-fitted undergarments ensure your dress fits seamlessly and feels comfortable throughout your big day. Visit a professional fitter to find the best options for your dress style.
7. Customization Is Key
Every bride is unique, and alterations can help you achieve a dress that fits like a glove. Many plus-size brides find it helpful to work with a tailor to adjust details like straps, hems, and bodices for a perfectly personalized fit. At The Bridal Suite we design our dresses therefore your dress will be ordered with the sleeves or other design detail you might want to add.
8. Confidence Is Your Best Accessory
The most important element of your wedding day look is confidence. Choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful and reflects your personality. Remember, beauty isn’t defined by size—it’s about how you carry yourself and the love you’re celebrating.
Wear your dress with a massive smile! You will look amazing!
Final Thoughts
Shopping for a wedding dress as a plus-size bride is an opportunity to embrace your style and celebrate your unique shape. Focus on silhouettes, fabrics, and details that make you feel radiant and confident. With the right dress, you’ll not only look stunning but also feel like the best version of yourself on your special day.
Now, go forth and find the one! Your dream dress—and unforgettable wedding day—awaits.
We design our own wedding dresses with your plus size figure in mind. Why not have your dress designed especially for you? This is how many of our collection has come about. We will name the dress after you so for years to come we will still remember you.
Book your appointment NOW! Stop procrastinating xxx