Need Plus-Size Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas? Try These Dresses

Let's face it: Finding the best plus-size wedding guest dresses can sometimes be a challenge. It doesn't matter if you've been invited to a swanky ballroom wedding or a casual backyard soiree; you want to find something that makes you look good and feel good. There are a few factors to keep in mind while shopping for your outfit, including the season, location and time of day of the nuptials. But it's also about finding a special outfit that you absolutely love while also respecting the couple's requested wedding dress code. The good news? I've rounded up some of the most stylish plus-size wedding guest outfit ideas, from fun summer plus-size wedding guest dresses to formal plus-size wedding guest dresses for fall. I also tapped Sky Pollard, Head of Product at Nuuly, a monthly clothing rental subscription, to get her take on the trends. Pollard says guests can expect to see plenty of exciting styles on the racks this season, including "puff sleeves, one-shoulders, iridescent mermaid vibes, slip dresses, '90s necklines like mock necks, jeweled embellishments, 3D florals and soft asymmetrical ruffles."

So whether you're looking for a romantic long-sleeve frock or a whimsical floral-printed dress, we're spilling all the tea on the current trends and giving you the lowdown on the best places to shop and what to look for in your search for the best plus-size wedding guest dress.

In this article:

• Where to Buy Plus-Size Dresses for Wedding Wear
• The Best Plus-Size Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
• The Best Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dresses
• The Best Plus-Size Semi-Formal Wedding Guest Dresses
• The Best Plus-Size Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses
• How to Choose a Plus-Size Dress as a Wedding Guest

Where to Buy Plus-Size Dresses for Wedding Wear

With more and more brands embracing size inclusivity, there are plenty of plus-size dresses for wedding guests. To help you navigate the trendiest styles, I've curated a list of top retailers that prioritize style, fit and diversity:

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• Lane Bryant understands that style and fit go hand in hand, so you can expect a wide range of chic and flattering options that will make you feel like the best-dressed guest at any wedding. From elegant and sophisticated dresses to trendy and fun styles, Lane Bryant has got you covered for any wedding theme or season. With their commitment to providing high-quality garments that are both stylish and comfortable, you can shop with confidence and find the dress that will make you look and feel incredible.
• ELOQUII is a treasure trove of trendy and fashion-forward plus-size clothing, including a fantastic selection of wedding guest dresses. With flattering cuts, beautiful prints and attention to detail, ELOQUII's dresses are designed to make a statement. From bold colors to stunning patterns, you'll find something to suit your individual style as a plus-size wedding guest.
• Anthropologie is known for its trendy and stylish clothing, and their collection of plus-size wedding guest dresses is no exception. With Anthropologie, you can expect a fabulous selection of on-trend dresses that celebrate and flatter your curves. From flowing maxi dresses to chic midi styles, they have options for every style and occasion. Plus, their commitment to quality means you'll find well-made dresses that will have you feeling confident and comfortable all day long.
• ASOS Curve is a go-to destination for plus-size fashion, offering an extensive range of trendy and stylish options for every occasion, including weddings. From elegant maxi dresses to chic cocktail numbers, ASOS Curve caters to a wide range of personal styles. Their inclusive size range, which goes up to a US size 36, ensures that everyone can find a fabulous dress that flatters their curves.
• Nuuly is a game-changer for those who want to wear designer dresses without the hefty price tag. The clothing rental company has an extensive selection of plus wedding guest dresses from top designers, allowing you to rent a statement piece for that special wedding day. "Nuuly has over 1,600 styles for events and occasions available in sizes 16–40 across a wide variety of silhouettes, fabrications and details," says Pollard. "For $98/month, you can order six items in your monthly Nuuly, with the option to add four additional items to ensure you have just the right item for that important event. Often, renting several options costs less than buying one dress that you may not want to wear again. After the wedding or event, Nuuly takes care of the cleaning and repairs without any added fees. The best part: That item isn't taking up precious space in your closet."

The Best Plus-Size Formal Wedding Guest Dresses

When it comes to plus-size formal dresses for weddings, I've got you covered with sophisticated fabrics and floor-length hems.

ELOQUII Satin Puff Sleeve Pleated Dress

Photo: ELOQUII

Looking for a wedding guest dress that has sleeves? ELOQUII has the perfect plus-size wedding guest dress idea featuring the perfect combo of comfort and style. The dress has a fun, bold blue shade and long puff sleeves with elastic cuffs. Plus, the faux wrap bodice is just *chef's kiss*.

Size range: 14-32

Petal & Pup Naira Pleated Maxi Dress

Photo: Petal & Pup

Looking for a formal plus-size wedding guest dress for a vineyard or chateau wedding? This Petal & Pup plus-size dress for wedding guests is for you. It comes in nine pretty colors and patterns, but we especially love this gorgeous sunset shade.

Use code PETALXKNOT for 15% off at Petal & Pup.

Size range: 0-16

Oren Silk Dress Es

Photo: Reformation

This dark green Reformation gown is a stunning choice for a formal affair. The matching scarf detail is very on-trend, and it also comes in a polka-dot pattern for a more casual look.

Size range: 1X–3X

BHLDN Amelia Deep-V Flutter-Sleeve Satin A-Line Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

This dress boasts a beautiful sage green shade that's perfect for all seasons. Plus, the soft satin fabric, fluttery short sleeves and V-neckline are totally on trend. If green isn't your color, this dress is available in nine other gorgeous options.

Size range: XXS–3X

ELOQUII Asymmetrical Bodice Maxi Dress

Photo: Nuuly

We love this vibrant green ELOQUII dress for a summer wedding. The pleated fabric is elegantly draped, and the asymmetrical bodice adds a unique touch.

Size range: 14W–32W

English Factory Strapless Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This chocolate-brown midi is a real stunner. Appliqué floral details give it a 3D textured look, while the strapless midi silhouette is timelessly elegant.

Size range: 1X–3X

ELOQUII Dramatic Ruffle Gown

Photo: ELOQUII

Whoever said comfort and style can't coexist obviously never met this dress. This full-length plus-size gown features a stunning trapeze silhouette, a bold orange hue and twirl-worthy ruffle-hem skirt. All you need is a pair of heeled sandals for an effortlessly chic, head-turning look.

Size range: 14-32

Show Me Your Mumu Paris Gown

Photo: Show Me Your Mumu

Okay, queen energy. This dress is all about making a statement thanks to its blush pink floral pattern and sexy side slit. It accentuates your figure in all the right places, giving you that bombshell silhouette while still keeping it classy.

Size range: XXS-3X

The Best Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dresses

Looking for plus-size cocktail dresses as a wedding guest? You've come to the right place. Plus-size cocktail dresses for wedding guests come in a variety of different styles, and I've picked out a few of my favorites to help you find the best one:

Maeve Cotton Printed Midi Dress

Photo: Maeve

We're obsessed with this floral midi for a spring or summer cocktail wedding. The bright purple flowers fit the fun cocktail vibe perfectly, while the flared silhouette is elegant with a vintage feel.

Size range: XXS–3X

Maeve The Jocelyn Sleeveless Lace Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

This Maeve midi dress is the perfect blend of elegant and sexy. With its lace-trimmed bodice and A-line skirt, it's a cocktail wedding guest look that's sure to turn heads.

Size range: XXSP–3X

One33 Social Colorblock Ruffle Gown

Photo: Rent the Runway

If you're planning on spending all night on the dancefloor, this pick is for you. The ruffled skirt is perfect for dancing, and we love the bright pink and purple colorblocked look. It's a fun, flirty choice for summer cocktail weddings.

Size Range: 0–16

Maeve Sleeveless Square-Neck Corset Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

A cocktail dress code lets you have fun with your look, meaning colorful polka dots are absolutely on the menu. This Maeve midi has a corset bodice and a graceful flared skirt, combining a playful print with a timeless silhouette for a perfect summer cocktail wedding look.

Size Range: XXSP–3X

Unique Vintage Plus Size Sweetheart Puff Sleeve Swing Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

Do you love vintage style? This adorable puff-sleeve swing dress from Unique Vintage might be for you. Stretch fabric ensures a comfortable fit, and the gathered swing skirt is perfect for twirling on the dancefloor. It even has pockets!

Size range: 1X–5X

Mac Duggal Empire Waist Embellished Short Sleeve Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

Shopping for a winter cocktail wedding look? This glittery midi from Mac Duggal could be the one. With its short flutter sleeves, wrap front and flared skirt, it combines a graceful silhouette with festive sequins for an elegant yet party-ready look.

Size range: 4–20

City Chic Rosabella Maxi Dress in Garnet

Photo: City Chic

Here's another gorgeous pick for evening cocktail affairs in winter. Sexy off-the-shoulder straps, elegant draping and ruffle details guarantee this dress will steal the show.

Size range: 12–24

June + Vie Square-Neck Lace Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

You're sure to bring the sunshine in this adorable butter-yellow midi. Featuring delicate all-over lace, a scallop trim and a square neckline, it's perfect for spring cocktail weddings. Shopping for a different season? No problem—it comes in eight different shades, including black, navy and burgundy for fall or winter events.

Size range: 12–32

The Best Plus-Size Semi-Formal Wedding Guest Dresses

Get ready to kick back and relax, because a semi-formal dress code is where we get to have a little fun. From varying lengths to fun prints and patterns, here are a few semi-formal plus-size dresses for that wedding you have coming up:

Petal & Pup Esther Midi Dress

Photo: Petal & Pup

You'll be pretty in pink in this floral midi from Petal & Pup. Featuring a stylish cowl neckline, off-the-shoulder sleeves and a lovely pink floral pattern, it's an effortlessly chic look for a semi-formal wedding in a garden or vineyard.

Use code PETALXKNOT for 15% off at Petal & Pup.

Size range: XXS–XXL

Lane Bryant Long-Sleeve V-Neck Maxi Dress

Photo: Lane Bryant

This floaty floral maxi would look beautiful at a semi-formal spring wedding in a garden setting. With its long sleeves, fitted waist and flared skirt, it's both elegant and flattering.

Size range: 14–24

Jewel x Badgley Mischka Hayden Floral Drop Waist Maxi Dress

Photo: Rent the Runway

This floral maxi is ideal for summer semi-formal events. Its maxi length and boat neckline make it dressy, while its bright floral print adds a more relaxed touch, perfectly bridging the gap between formal and casual.

Size range: 0-16

Estelle Ana Cotton Midi Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

Attending a daytime wedding? Or maybe a bridal brunch? This plus-size tea-length dress for wedding guests is a must-have with its bright pink hue, tiered skirt and flutter sleeves. It's an immediate "add to cart" for me.

Size range: 16W-24W

Lane Bryant Lena V-Neck Level-Hem Midi Dress in Galapagos Green

Photo: Lane Bryant

Lane Bryant's iconic Lena dress boasts a super-flattering silhouette, with short flutter sleeves, a tailored bodice and a flared skirt. Its crepe fabric has a stretch for a comfortable fit, and it has pockets. It also comes in petite sizes for shorter girls. What more could you ask for?

Size Range: 12P–28

Anthropologie Scoop-Neck Mesh A-Line Midi Dress

Photo: Nuuly

Here's a plus-size semi-formal wedding guest dress that can easily be dressed up or down. Its pleated midi skirt and open back give it a dressy look, while the summery floral print keeps it from looking too formal. Pair it with wedges and chunky jewelry for a more casual affair, or dress it up with gold jewelry and heels.

Size range: XXSP–3X

Baltic Børn Layla Tulle Maxi Dress in Dusty Green Floral

Photo: Nordstrom

You'll look breezy and beautiful in this long-sleeve maxi from Baltic Børn. Available in six gorgeous colorways, it's made from high-quality tulle fabric for an ethereal, floaty look. We love this dusty green shade for a semi-formal woodland wedding.

Size Range: XS–3X

Hutch Solid Tiered Midi Dress

Photo: Nuuly

This gorgeous plus-size wedding guest dress from Nuuly is absolutely breathtaking, thanks to the bold orange hue and tiered ruffled skirt. Plus, the breezy fabric and spaghetti straps will keep you cool during a sunny outdoor wedding ceremony.

Size range: XS-3X

The Best Plus-Size Black-Tie Wedding Guest Dresses

Have a black-tie wedding on the horizon? Now's your chance to go all out—think floor-grazing lengths, deep shades and dressy fabrics like velvet and silk. Ahead, shop some of my all-time fave plus-size black-tie wedding guest dresses:

Adrianna Papell Plus Sleeveless Halter Maxi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

Adrianna Papell is a go-to brand for plus-size wedding guest dresses to suit all dress codes, including black tie. Case in point: this stunning halter-neck gown in metallic gold. The tie detail at the back finishes off this ultra-glam look.

Size range: 14W-24W

Mac Duggal Gray Long Sleeve Embellished V-Neck Gown (Plus)

Photo: Mac Duggal

This elegant plus-size gown is perfect for winter black-tie events. Made from gorgeously embellished charcoal-grey fabric, its wrap front, long sleeves and tiered maxi skirt create a timeless and flattering silhouette.

Size range: 14W–26W

Betsy & Adam Floral Metallic Long Sleeve A-Line Gown

Photo: Nordstrom

This floor-length gown is a real showstopper for winter black-tie events. The gold metallic floral print adds a beautiful shimmer, while the billowy sleeves and flowy skirt create an elegant silhouette.

Size range: 8–18

BHLDN Scottie One-Shoulder Side-Slit Stretch Satin Maxi Dress in Black

Photo: Anthropologie

You can't go wrong with a floor-length black gown for black-tie weddings. The one-shoulder neckline and side slit add some subtle sexiness to this BHLDN look. If black's not your thing, it also comes in seven other colors, from steel blue to rich chocolate.

Size range: XXS–3X

Lulus Love In Your Eyes Black Knotted Mermaid Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

When it comes to affordability, Lulus has some of the best plus-size wedding guest dresses to offer. While the retailer certainly has its fair share of trendy styles, you'll also find plenty of classics, like this elegant black gown with a bateau-style neckline, fitted bodice and flattering mermaid hem. Under $100? Don't mind if we do.

Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off purchases in selected categories.

Size range: XXS-3X

Alfred Sung Off-The-Shoulder Bow Satin Corset Dress with Fit and Flare Skirt in Ballet Pink

Photo: Dessy

Here's a plus-size black-tie wedding guest look that's guaranteed to turn heads. From the corset bodice to the off-shoulder bow details to the figure-hugging silhouette, we're not sure what aspect of this gorgeous gown we love most. Best of all, it's available in 30 different colors to suit any season.

Size range: 00-30W

Lulus Elaborate Charm Olive Green Satin Pleated Backless Maxi Dress

Photo: Lulus

You'll be the belle of the ball in this floor-length olive gown from Lulus. Made from sleek satin, it features a halter neckline and a flowy pleated maxi skirt that's fit for a princess.

Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off purchases in selected categories.

Size range: XXS–3X

Xscape Plus Size Sweetheart Neck Off The Shoulder Sleeveless A-Line Gown

Photo: Dillard's

Xscape has many black-tie options for plus-size wedding guests, and this stunning pink gown is one of them. With its off-the-shoulder neckline, classic A-line silhouette and smooth satin fabric, it fits the dress code perfectly.

Size range: 14W–22W

How to Choose a Plus-Size Dress as a Wedding Guest

Finding what to wear to a wedding with a plus-size figure can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not; I've got your back when it comes to shopping. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind while you're looking for that wedding-worthy outfit.

Don't Be Afraid of Color

Don't be afraid to go bold! Stand out in a sea of colors and prints by choosing a dress that showcases your personality. Experiment with jewel tones, playful patterns or even a floral print if that's your vibe. The key is to find a dress that makes you feel fierce and fabulous.

Fabric is Your Friend

Choosing the right fabric is just as important as choosing a color you love. Stay away from velvet fabrics during the warmer months and from thin fabrics if you're attending a wedding in the Rocky Mountains. Opt for materials with some stretch, like jersey or spandex blends, as they provide comfort and help the dress hug your curves without being too restrictive. Remember, you want to feel confident and comfy all night!

Consider Sustainability

Renting your wedding guest dress is a fantastic option, especially because it can be more sustainable for both the Earth and your wallet if you don't buy a dress you'll only wear once. "You will get the biggest bang for your buck and try something that you will stand out in and feel confident in all night long," says Pollard. If you're unsure about what size is right for you, you can add multiple sizes to your box to make sure you're always comfortable. Order your Nuuly with a little time to spare so you can organize your undergarments and any necessary fashion tape in advance. These details will help you shine at important events.

Kate Boswell contributed to the reporting of this article.

Additional market work by Doireann Mangan.