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Updated Mar 06, 202525 Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dress Ideas for City Hall Nuptials
Eloping never looked so good.
Photos, from left to right: Reformation, Eloquii, Revelry
Courthouse weddings—whether an elopement followed by dinner out or a civil ceremony before a bigger destination affair—provide a fashion moment all their own. More casual than a traditional wedding dress, a plus-size courthouse wedding dress gives the bride an opportunity to showcase her personality. There are really no rules: City hall wedding dresses can be long or short, white or colorful, and accessorized with a veil or not; suits and jumpsuits are acceptable, too. And there are plenty of ways to make the look feel bridal—try adding a birdcage or fingertip veil or carrying a bouquet. Here's something else to add to the pros column: A courthouse look is typically a lot more affordable than a traditional wedding dress. And while you may want to start your search at a plus-size bridal shop, chances are you can find something stellar online, a great option especially if you need a quick turnaround. Scroll through our list of shoppable courthouse plus-size wedding dresses—and pants—here, then seek out accessories that let your bridal style shine.
The Best Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dress Ideas
Just like you would in the search for a more traditional plus-size wedding dress, start by honing in on your style. Will you go short, midi or maxi? Pants or a skirt? Bridal white or a pop of color? Our list features looks from favorite plus-size bridal retailers like Eloquii, Azazie, Revelry and more and has something for every type of bride.
Knee-Length Caped Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Macy's
A caped dress is one of those best-of-both-worlds looks, making it a perfect courthouse plus-size wedding dress. The knee-length skirt is casual, but the cape elevates the look to make it special (and in this case, can serve as a veil alternative, too!). This Betsy & Adam piece comes in deep red for something out-of-the-box, but we love it in classic white.
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Size range: 14W–22W
Structured Pencil Midi Dress
Photo: ASOS
A fitted pencil dress can work in so many settings, from the office to date night to a courthouse wedding. This affordable wedding dress feels bridal with asymmetrical draping, off-the-shoulder straps and a thick stretch fabric. Another fun detail: This hue is actually a super light shade of lilac rather than pure white; the subtle pop of color is lovely for a courthouse setting.
Size range: 14–26
Mini Dress with Draped Train
Photo: Eloquii
Plus-size retailer Eloquii now has its own bridal collection and the looks are practically made for city hall ceremonies. We love this one because it's a mini dress that's casual for the courthouse but nods to traditional bridal style with a draped train flowing down from the structured bow back. Add a pair of bow earrings to double down on the feminine vibe.
Size range: 14–32
Vintage-Inspired Pleated Midi Dress
Photo: Azazie
Known for its stellar selection of bridesmaid dresses, Azazie recently expanded into bridal, and its pieces are stunning for the ancillary events—including the courthouse "I do's." This stretch satin scoop-neck dress gives off vintage vibes; bring along a photographer who shoots on film.
Size range: 0–30, custom sizing available
Tie-Front Summer Linen Shirtdress
Photo: Ralph Lauren
You can almost never go wrong with a shirtdress—yes, even for your wedding. This knee-length look is classic and cool for a summertime civil ceremony. Pair it with white sandals and heart-shaped sunnies for a casual alfresco dinner after "I do."
Size range: 14W–22W
Crinkled Satin Flutter Sleeve Midi Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Jenny Yoo
Jenny Yoo is a prolific bridal designer for traditional weddings, but her Little White Dress collection is full of chic options for courthouse wedding dresses in plus size. This crinkle-satin style is a unique take on the trending midi, with a V-neck and flutter sleeves that add a touch of whimsical romance.
Size range: 0–26
Simple Strapless Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Reformation
Sometimes, the simpler the better. This strapless midi has a straight neckline and fitted bodice over a full skirt (a layer of tulle beneath the cotton/spandex fabrication gives it a little added volume). Dress it up with a statement necklace or bracelets and add a fun shoe.
Size range: 14–24
Twirly Mini Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Revelry
Brides have more fun—that's how the saying goes, right? They certainly do in this short plus-size courthouse wedding dress, which features tied bow straps over a square neck and a flowy mini skirt with the perfect flounce and twirl. Amp up the playful energy with whimsical accessories like a heart-shaped clutch.
Size range: 0–32
Feathered Blazer Wedding Dress
Photo: Adrianna Papell
We love a bridal suit or tux for courthouse weddings and this style takes the look up a notch. The long-sleeve blazer dress is sophisticated—but with fun details, like a mini hemline and feather accents at the wrists. Pair it with diamond studs or chandelier earrings and stilettos for summer or bedazzled booties for a winter courthouse wedding.
Size range: 14–26
Wide-Leg Pants and a Sculptural Top
Photo: Eloquii
Courthouse weddings offer the luxury of mixing things up: You certainly don't have to wear a dress. Get creative with a chic pants-and-top combo in bridal white. This top is unique and artistic; its corset boning and sculptural style feel formal, too.
Size range: Top: 14–32; Pants: 14–28
Scoop-Neck Satin Gown
Photo: Park & Fifth
Just because you opted for a city hall wedding, doesn't mean you have to skip the traditional wedding dress: If a full-length gown was the vision, we say why not? This one's satin fabrication and cowl scoop neck are on-trend. Throw on a "just married" or "Mrs." leather jacket over top to add some edge.
Size range: XXL–3X
Draped Satin Midi Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Amsale
With its made-to-order pieces, Amsale has become an expert at fitting brides of all shapes and sizes—including those saying "I do" at city hall. The brand's draped bodice dress comes in a fluid satin ivory shade that's a bridal must. Pair it with a birdcage veil.
Size range: 00–28
Draped Faux Wrap Maxi Dress
Photo: Kiyonna
Wrap dresses are famous for being universally flattering—and this pretty courthouse wedding dress in plus size is no exception. The wrap-style bodice features a draped front (pair it with a drop pendant necklace or a cool choker) over a wide-sweep A-line skirt. Finish the casual-chic look with flats.
Size range: 0X–5X
One-Shoulder Cape Plus-Size Wedding Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
This courthouse plus-size wedding dress is sophisticated and utterly bridal with its fitted silhouette and tea-length hem. But the standout is the dramatic one-shoulder design with a flowy cape sleeve that guarantees all eyes are on you.
Size range: 1X–3X
Colorful Floral Tulle A-Line Dress
Photo: AW Bridal
Courthouse weddings are your excuse to have fun with color—there's no rule about wearing all white. This playful tulle dress brings a pop of pretty pastel to the bridal look with textured and three-dimensional floral embroidery on a tulle base. The square neckline and tea length are trendy features.
Size range: 0–30, custom sizing available
Slinky Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Wedding Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
The casual jersey dress gets a dressy upgrade in this perfectly draped and ruched off-the-shoulder style by Karen Millen—which, importantly, still boasts all the comfort of a jersey. Dress it up with strappy metallic heels and gold or silver jewelry for the nuptials.
Size range: XL–XXXL
Flowy Chiffon Long-Sleeve Wedding Dress
Photo: Azazie
A look we love for fall and winter courthouse weddings? Something with sleeves—but in this case, they're sheer chiffon and billowy. The sleeves lend themselves well to the overall vibe: With covered buttons, cuffed sleeves and a cummerbund waist, this plus-size courthouse wedding dress has vintage-inspired details that give it an old-school bridal feel.
Size range: WD0–WD30, custom sizing available
Lace Tiered Plus-Size Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Eloquii
Spring courthouse wedding brides, this one's for you. The more casual courthouse wedding dress in plus size has delicate puff sleeves, a playful tiered skirt and a bustier-style top. Lean into the fresh style with casual accessories or dress it up with jewelry.
Size range: 14–28
Tiered Satin Maxi Dress
Photo: Show Me Your Mumu
If airy and ethereal is the vibe, look for floaty satin and flutter sleeves; this maxi dress has both. Featuring a sweetheart neckline and an empire waist, the elegance of this dress will have you feeling like royalty on your special day. Dress it up or down depending on the vibe; to lean into chic simplicity, keep accessories to a minimum.
Size range: XXS-3X
Off-the-Shoulder Satin Bow Mini Dress
Photo: Dessy Group
With a boned corset bodice and satin bows adorning the off-the-shoulder sleeves, this Alfred Sung mini dress has all the makings of a trendy find. It's fashion-forward and chic and the shorter hemline is appropriate for a city hall ceremony. (Pro tip: If you're planning on hosting a traditional wedding at a later date, re-wear this as your reception or after-party look.)
Size range: 00–30W, extra length and custom sizing available
Strapless Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
Photo: Nordstrom
The most perfect courthouse plus-size wedding dress of all may not even be a dress—it might be a jumpsuit. This one is a great argument for the case, with a figure-flattering bodice, cascading ruffle detail and comfortable, wide-leg pants. Add a veil to complete the bridal look.
Size range: 14–22
Boho Lace Courthouse Wedding Dress
Photo: Torrid
Boho brides don't always get married outdoors—sometimes, they go to the courthouse. If that describes you, look for a tiered lace maxi dress; the look is casual and bridal at the same time. Book a hairstylist to give you a chic braided bohemian style and carry a petite bouquet of wildflowers.
Size range: 10–30
Cowl Neck Satin Wedding Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
With figure-flattering ruching and glossy satin material, this cowl neck midi dress is ideal for courthouse ceremonies. Dress it up with jewelry and add a fingertip veil.
Size range: 1X–3X
Metallic Caped Dress
Photo: Mac Duggal
Embellishments are everywhere in bridal right now, and this glitzy courthouse plus-size wedding dress proves they work in the civil setting, too. There's no need for a lot of jewelry—the sequined appliques fulfill that—but add a fun metallic shoe to finish the look.
Size Range: 14W–24W
Shawl Lapel Tuxedo Jacket and Pants
Photo: David's Bridal
A tuxedo is an uber-chic look for a courthouse wedding, and this one from David's Bridal has elevated details, like a satin shawl collar on the ivory jacket and a satin waistband on the pants. Pair it with an ivory corset top underneath for a monochromatic look and add a statement diamond necklace.
Size range: Jacket: 0–30W; Pants: 0-30W
