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

BHLDN Leila 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: 0-26W

Hutch Drop Waist Maxi Dress

Photo: Nuuly

No need to ask the mirror who the fairest wedding guest of them all is, because it's clearly you when you rent this effortless plus-size dress for wedding guests from Nuuly. Featuring a sophisticated drop waist, scoop neckline and ankle length, this classic black dress is so romantic. Psst: Save $20 off your first month of your Nuuly subscription with our exclusive code THEKNOT20 at checkout.

Size range: 00-26W

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. The blue floral print is whimsical and fun, but it's also available in four solid shades including Palm Green, Sunset Orange and Silver.

Size range: 0-16

Reformation Ronda Silk Dress

Photo: Reformation

Want to paint the town (or venue) with color? Look no further than this yellow plus-size wedding guest dress from Reformation that features a drapey off-the-shoulder neckline and totally twirl-worthy skirt. Simple yet stunning, it's guaranteed to earn you compliments.

Size range: 14-24

BHLDN Dylan One-Shoulder Satin Side-Slit Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

For those looking for a dress they can wear for multiple seasons, this sophisticated gown from Anthropologie is an excellent choice. With a one-shoulder neckline and elegant satin fabric, this plus-size wedding guest dress keeps it formal and can easily be paired with a coat or shawl in the cooler months.

Size range: 0-26W

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:

BOYKO Gigi Strapless Mini Dress

Photo: Nuuly

Nuuly has some of the best plus-size wedding guest dresses, including this flouncy mini number from BOYKO. The bright shade, oversized floral detail and trapeze silhouette make for a totally dreamy cocktail wedding look.

Size range: XS-3X

Hutch Bow-Tie Maxi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

A printed dress is always a good idea. Add a giant statement bow into the mix, and you're guaranteed to make a statement. The oxford print, strapless neckline and flowy skirt are sure to keep you comfortable through varying temps too. Oh, and did we mention it has pockets?

Size range: 00-26W

ASOS DESIGN Curve Ruffle Cut Out Off The Shoulder Midi Dress

Photo: ASOS

Light pink blooms, ruffle details and a flowy silhouette make this off-the-shoulder dress a shoo-in for a garden wedding. Thanks to the neutral shade, this romantic pick will work for a variety of wedding venues and seasons.

Size range: 14-26

By Anthropologie Sleeveless Draped-Back Asymmetrical Slip Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

I'm a sucker for animal print and satin at weddings. Not only does it give you a super luxe look, but it's ultra-sexy too. One reviewer even says, "I saw this dress online and had it sent to my daughter, who has several upcoming special events this spring and summer. She loves it, and it fits like a dream. Anthropologie can always be counted on for uniquely beautiful styles!"

Size range: 00-26W

Fabulouss By Mac Duggal Sequin Long-Sleeve Cocktail Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

Looking to turn some heads? This sexy Mac Duggal midi dress covered in sequins will have you serving looks all day (and night) long. If green's not your color, it's also available in classic black.

Size range: 14W-24W

Lulus Shifting Dears Black Long Sleeve Dress

Photo: Lulus

Keep it short and sweet with this plus-size wedding guest dress with sleeves from Lulus. The LBD is universally-flattering with long, sheer sleeves that make it appropriate for ceremonies both indoors and out. One of the most versatile in the bunch, you'll definitely want to rewear this one for other occasions.

Size range: XXS-3X

City Chic Mandy Maxi Dress

Photo: City Chic

This Barbie knows how to rock a plus-size wedding guest dress. Seriously, the pretty pink hue is to die for, and the cascading ruffles, self-tie waist and halter neckline add plenty of interest to this already gorgeous number.

Size range: 12-24

Reformation Twilight Dress

Photo: Reformation

This floral plus-size wedding guest dress just screams "It girl." (Sorry, I don't make the rules.) The gorgeous midi dress has a flirty yet appropriate slit, tie straps and a back shirred panel for extra comfort, making it equal parts fashionable and practical.

Size range: 14-24

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:

Lane Bryant Halter Tie-Neck Dress

Photo: Lane Bryant

This midi plus-size wedding guest dress is all about garden glam. Plus, the neutral colorway can easily work for a variety of seasons and venues. Just add a few gold accessories, and voila!

Size range: 10/12-38/40

ELOQUII Fringe Sweater Dress

Photo: ELOQUII

Yes, you can wear a maxi dress to a semi-formal wedding. It just doesn't need to be a formal gown. Case in point: this ultra-fun, fringed plus-size dress for wedding guests from ELOQUII that's perfect for an outdoor soirée.

Size range: 14/16-30/32

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

ASOS DESIGN Curve Satin Oversized Midi T-Shirt Dress

Photo: ASOS

If you're looking for an easy, breezy wedding guest dress, then you need to see this stunningly minimal midi from ASOS. Not only is the t-shirt silhouette totally on trend, but it can also easily work for any season depending on how you accessorize it.

Size range: 12-26

Anthropologie One-Shoulder Linen Dress

Photo: Nuuly

I never met a little black dress I didn't love, and that includes this one-shoulder plus-size wedding guest dress you can rent from Nuuly for just a fraction of the price. (Don't forget to use code THEKNOT20 at checkout for $20 off your first month!)

Size range: 00-26W

Leota Zariah Floral Stretch Organic Cotton Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

For semi-formal weddings, we wear florals. This bold printed mini dress from Nordstrom has a flattering V-neckline and puff sleeves with elasticated cuffs that can be dressed up or down. Either way, you'll look good and feel good.

Size range: 1X-3X

ELOQUII Off The Shoulder Long Sleeve Dress

Photo: ELOQUII

I can't be the only one who loves a classic black maxi dress. It's perfect for so many different wedding aesthetics. It's just as comfortable as it is sophisticated thanks to the high-stretch knit fabric, and you can style it in a myriad of different ways.

Size range: 14-32

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:

Xscape Off the Shoulder Scuba Crepe Column Gown

Photo: Nordstrom

With its off-the-shoulder silhouette, deep green hue and flattering fit, this curvy wedding guest dress is the epitome of elegance. "Even as I tried it on in [the] dressing room, so many people complimented the color and style," says one reviewer. "Can't wait to wear it to my event."

Size range: 14W-22W

Jenny Yoo Issa Off-The-Shoulder Stretch Velvet Column Gown

Photo: Anthropologie

I've found the perfect velvet plus-size dress for wedding guests. I just adore this French Blue shade for the colder months. And who can get over the off-the-shoulder silhouette and thigh-high slit that gives you just a little extra glam?

Size range: 0-26

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.

Size range: XXS-3X

Tadashi Shoji Plus Size Off-Shoulder Two-Tone Column Gown

Photo: Neiman Marcus

Neiman Marcus is a go-to for plus-size dresses to wear to black-tie weddings. Case in point: this stunning Tadashi Shoji gown with a gorgeous white pleated sash. Combined with its sexy slit and off-the-shoulder neckline, this gown is worthy of even the most glam affairs.

Size range: 14W-22W

Reformation Annabelle Silk Dress

Photo: Reformation

Looking for a plus-size wedding outfit idea for a garden-theme ceremony but not about bright floral prints? Reformation has you covered. This moody slip dress features an oh-so-subtle botanical print on a black background, making it perfect for the minimalist. And with its elegant cowl neckline and classic silhouette, you'll be able to wear it again and again.

Size range: 14-24

Mac Duggal Embellished Column Cape Gown

Photo: Mac Duggal

Stunning rows of sequins and a chic cape silhouette, all on a sweeping floor-length gown? It's a match made in formal wedding heaven. Paired with even the most minimal accessories, this curvy Mac Duggal gown is definitely going to turn heads.

Size range: 14W-24W

Betsy & Adam Plus Size Off-the-Shoulder Scuba Gown

Photo: Macy's

Betsy & Adam has so many stunning options when it comes to plus size dresses to wear to weddings as a guest, and this deep bordeaux number is no exception. With its thick, flattering fabric and elbow-length sleeves, this elegant gown is a great option for weddings taking place during the cooler months.

Size range: 14W-22W

Tadashi Shoji Bow One-Shoulder Metallic Gown

Photo: Nordstrom

While black-tie dress codes typically lend themselves to darker colors, you may be able to bend the rules depending on the time of year and venue. Heading to a Gatsby-themed affair or have a couple specifically request metallics? This light pink number is a perfect pick, and the elegant silhouette and long length ensure it's still appropriate for the dress code.

Size range: 1X-3X

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.