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20 of the Best Plus-Size Wedding Guest Dresses to See You Through the Season in Style

Best Dressed Guest, Reporting for Duty

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plus size wedding guest dress UNIVERSAL
Never Fully Dressed; Kiyonna; Reformation

The majority of women in America wear a size 16 or larger, but there’s still a major lack of fabulous plus-size clothing brands, especially for special occasions, like your cousin’s wedding. It can be frustrating to have friends recommend fun new brands, only to find they go up to a size 18 (if that). So, to stave off those feelings of disappointment, we combed through all the latest and greatest wedding guest dresses on the market that cater to plus sizes. And no, they’re not just a series of oversize LBDs or shapeless caftans.

The Top 5 Plus-Size Wedding Guest Dresses at a Glance

Where to Buy Plus-Size Wedding Guest Dresses

If you’re looking for more options than the stunners on this list, there are lots of retailers we’d happily recommend. ASOS, Anthropologie, Never Fully Dressed and Eloquii all carry plus-size dresses that feel fresh—but not too trendy—and fun, for prices that won’t totally blow your budget. (Although Anthropologie also carries some styles at higher price points for those looking to splurge.) Show Me Your Mumu, Kiyonna, Dia & Co and Adrianna Papell are great places to pick up dresses with more of a timeless appeal that you can wear for years to come, through any season or dress code. Reformation also carries a limited, but beautiful, selection of classically-minded wedding guest dresses up to a size 3X. JessaKae specializes in dreamy, fairytale frocks with ample tulle, embroidery and flowery details, all of which come in sizes XXS to 6X. Of course, you can always rent your wedding guest dress if you don’t want to clutter your wardrobe with special occasion pieces you may or may not find reason to wear again. Rent the Runway is always a favorite for one-off rentals without a subscription, with styles available up to size 22. Or, if you want to hold onto pieces for a bit longer, Nuuly carries dresses from Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters and Free People, as well as a slew of other under-the-radar brands, in size 14W to 40W with a monthly rental subscription.

How We Chose

All the below dresses come from brands that have been worn and loved by PureWow editors, friends and family, and come highly reviewed by countless other shoppers, as well. The dresses themselves are equally well-reviewed and include a mix of timeless stunners you can pull out again and again for years to come, as well as trendier silhouettes that are sure to have multiple other guests asking, “OMG, where’d you get that?”

25 Wedding Guest Shoes That Will Keep Your Feet Comfy After Hours of Dancing


Timeless Black Tie

1.     Kiyonna Embroidered Gown

Kiyonna

  • Size Range: 0X to 5X (roughly US 10 to 32)
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: made in the U.S., bra-friendly, works for all seasons
  • What We Don’t Like: dry clean only

If it’s a timeless black-tie gown you’re in need of, this beauty is a gorgeous pick, no matter the season. Seriously, so many reviews mention buying this for weddings throughout the year. They also mention how comfortable the material is as an added bonus. Some do mention that those with a larger bust may be better off ordering one size up from their usual, but otherwise it appears this gown runs true to size.

Floral One-Shoulder

2.  Show Me Your Mumu Deluca Dress

Show Me Your Mumu

  • Size Range: XL to 3X
  • Material: 68 percent cotton, 32 percent linen
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, adjustable belt
  • What We Don’t Like: fabric has little to no stretch

This one-shoulder beauty comes with a removable, adjustable belt and, according to reviews, is just the right length for a wide range of heights. Petite gals write that they didn’t have to have it hemmed, and tall women found it hit in a very flattering spot as a tea-length or midi dress. Reviews also suggest that this dress runs true to size, but note that the material has very little stretch, so if you are between sizes you may want to opt for the larger.

All-Season Gown

3. Reformation Frankie Silk Dress

Reformation

  • Size Range: US 14 to 24
  • Material: 100 percent silk
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, adjustable shoulder straps, works for every season
  • What We Don’t Like: fabric has little to no stretch

Another seasonless stunner, this silk column gown has a slit in back to make it easier to walk and dance, and the straps are adjustable to ensure the neckline hits exactly where it should. The back of the bodice is also smocked to better accommodate busts of varying sizes, but in general the material does not have much stretch, so if you’re between sizes you may want to go with the larger. That said, Reformation offers free alterations in partnership with Hemster on any item over $118, making it much easier to take up the hem or nip in the waist without scheduling a separate trip to your local tailor.

Ruched Midi

4.  Eloquii Ruched One-Shoulder Dress

Eloquii

  • Size Range: US 14 to 32
  • Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, machine washable
  • What We Don’t Like: reportedly runs small

This one-shoulder number is surprisingly sexy and the ruched material looks stunning on figures of all types. The dress is also fully lined, so you don’t have to stress over your undergarments. You can also adjust the ruching to make it a little shorter or longer to hit right where you need it to. “Look no further for the perfect dress,” raves one reviewer. “I wore it as a wedding guest dress. It’s comfortable and stretchy in the right places. Material was lovely. And the color gorgeous!” Reviewers do note that it runs a little small, so you might want to go up one from your usual size.

Shimmering Ruffles

5. Adrianna Papell Floral Metallic Dress

Adrianna Papell

  • Size Range: US 14 to 30
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: bra friendly, lightweight
  • What We Don’t Like: dry clean only

This faux-wrap dress has all the benefits of a true wrap silhouette with none of the hassle of having to adjust it throughout the day. That said, the belt is adjustable and removable, so you can play around with different ways to knot it or swap it out altogether for something in a contrasting hue or a sturdier silver leather style. Speaking of silver, it’s those dainty metallic flowers throughout that really make this frock stand out, and make it easy to coordinate your jewelry, shoes and bag.

Ballerina Inspired

6. Buxom Couture Off-the-Shoulder Dress

Buxom Couture

  • Size Range: 1X to 3X
  • Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, has pockets, also available in black
  • What We Don’t Like: hand wash only

This off-the-shoulder midi also comes in black, but this red hue is just too gorgeous not to highlight. The tulle sleeves add a lovely ballerina-inspired touch that can be dressed up or down to fit the dress code. Plus, it has pockets for stowing easy-access tissues or snacks for the ceremony. The material also has a decent about of stretch for added comfort

Lightweight Gown

7. ASOS Curve Ruffle Cutout Dress

ASOS

  • Size Range: US 12 to 26
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, lightweight and breathable
  • What We Don’t Like: no reviews available

We came for the beautiful lilac hue and trendy cutouts at the waist, but it’s the lightweight material that really sold us on this flattering gown. Despite being fully lined, this maxi dress is still incredibly breathable and will keep you comfortable and cool through even the hottest summer ceremony. And the cutouts at the waist do not prevent you from wearing a classic strapless bra for added support. The flutter sleeves can also be pulled up higher if you’d prefer to wear a traditional bra, but we think having them pulled down for an off-the-shoulder silhouette is just oh-so dreamy.

Cotton Midi

8. Maeve Sweetheart Dress

Maeve

  • Size Range: US 16W to 26W
  • Material: 100 percent cotton
  • What We Like: has pockets, machine washable, can be worn with a strapless bra
  • What We Don’t Like: fabric wrinkles easily

If breathability is the aim of the game, this cotton midi is a gorgeous option to consider. The cut and pattern help dress up the somewhat casual material, and it also comes in two other chic colors. Reviews suggest the dress runs true to size, but some petite shoppers found the bodice was cut a bit too long for their frames. (The dress is also available in petite sizes, but only up to a size 16.) There is smocking at the back of the bust for a more comfortable fit up top, and there are pockets in the skirt. “This dress is so figure flattering,” reads one review. “The material is great quality and it’s stretchy along the back which makes it comfortable to move around in. Can’t recommend it enough!”

Alternative Floral

9. Anthropologie Ruffled Slip Dress

Anthropologie

  • Size Range: 1X to 3X
  • Material: 100 percent viscose
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, machine washable, adjustable straps
  • What We Don’t Like: reportedly runs small

If pastel blooms and rosebuds aren’t really your thing, the rust-hued violets on this sexy slip dress might just turn you into a floral person after all. The print has a much more grown-up vibe than your typical flower print, aided in part by the curve-hugging silhouette and asymmetrical hemline. The shoulder straps are fully adjustable to help the neckline hit just right, but reviews suggest it does run small, so you may want to consider sizing up one. Per one review, “The material is not heavy or thick, great for a summer wedding. There’s a built-in slip. The straps are tied so it fits perfectly in the bust. Highly recommend.”

Little Black Dress

10. Adrianna Papell Dress with Chiffon Cape

Adrianna Papell

  • Size Range: US 14 to 30
  • Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent elastane
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, works for any season
  • What We Don’t Like: no reviews available

In need of a new go-to little black dress? We highly suggest adding this cutie to your roster. The floaty chiffon shoulder moves like a dream and the material has a nice amount of stretch for added comfort as you break it down on the dance floor.  It can also be worn with a strapless or one-shoulder bra and is simple without being boring.

Fairytale Tulle

11. JessaKae Sweetheart Dress

JessaKae

  • Size Range: XL to 6X
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: bra friendly, lightweight
  • What We Don’t Like: reportedly runs small in the bust

JessaKae is definitely the place to go if you’re looking for a fairytale vibe. The brand specializes in flouncy frocks with plenty of tulle, embroidery and glitter, much like the heart-adorned midi above. This particular dress is lightweight, fun and sure to bring in tons of compliments. The ties on the shoulders can be tied in any way you like, but the length of the strap itself is not adjustable. Reviews suggest the bust runs small, so double check the size chart before you add to cart and consider going up one if you’re unsure.

Bright Mini

12. Hutch Strapless Bubble Dress

Hutch

  • Size Range: US16W to 26W
  • Material: a blend of cotton and elastane
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, vibrant colors, has pockets
  • What We Don’t Like: dry clean only

This cheery mini dress is sure to make you smile every time you pull it out of your closet. The seam at the waist is shaped with a slight V which subtly helps nip you in at the middle in a flattering way, and according to reviews the strapless neckline shows just enough clavicle without feeling overly exposed. Reviewers also suggest it runs a little large, so if you’re between sizes you may want to go with the smaller.

Silky Wrap Dress

13.  11 Honoré Collection Precious Dress

11 Honoré

  • Size Range: US 12 to 24
  • Material: 98 percent polyester, 2 percent spandex
  • What We Like: flattering silhouette, fully lined, machine washable
  • What We Don’t Like: no reviews available

This burgundy stunner is not a true wrap, and in fact the neckline features a high neck with an exaggerated cutout for a sexy (but not too overt) touch. The tie at the waist can be adjusted and knotted in any way you like, but the waist itself is fixed, so be sure to double check the size chart before you order. The material does have some stretch for added comfort, and the dress is also machine washable for easy care.

Modern Lace

14.  Kiyonna Riviera Lace Gown

Kiyonna

  • Size Range: 0X to 5X (roughly US 10 to 32)
  • Material: 90 percent nylon, 10 percent spandex
  • What We Like: bra friendly,made in the U.S.
  • What We Don’t Like: dry clean only

All-over lace sometimes runs the risk of looking a little old fashioned, but the silhouette of this rose-colored gown helps elevate that classic material to feel more modern and fun. We love the cut-out shoulders and mermaid-inspired skirt for a subtly sexy nod that’s still super comfortable. Per one reviewer, “I bought this for an early fall wedding, and got so many compliments! I love how flowy it is, and the lace is so pretty and feminine, but still modern. Would definitely recommend!

  • Size Range: US 14 W to 20W
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: bra friendly, machine washable
  • What We Don’t Like: not a lot of reviews available

The combination of the subtle stripes in the pattern and carefully placed seams at the bust and skirt comes together to lengthen your figure, without need for heels. We also adore the adjustable neck tie, which can be knotted in a bow as it is on the model, or left hanging loose for a more casual vibe. And the summer-ready colors are flattering on just about every skin tone. Add to that the fact that it requires no specialty undergarments, and you’ve got yourself an absolute winner.

Flamenco Inspired

16.  Never Fully Dressed Eleni Dress

Never Fully Dressed

  • Size Range: UK 6 to 28
  • Material: 100 percent cotton
  • What We Like: breathable material, machine washable
  • What We Don’t Like: not bra friendly

This tiered maxi was born for dancing, so wallflowers need not apply. The neckline, while not bra friendly, is incredibly flattering and reviews suggest it does offer some support, even for those with bigger busts. And the cotton poplin material is both breathable (great for warm-weather fêtes) and comfortable, though it does not have very much stretch. Never Fully Dressed typically runs true to size, but if you’re between two you may want to opt for the larger for some added wiggle room in the hips.

  • Size Range: US 14W to 24W
  • Material: 100 percent polyester with crystal embellishments
  • What We Like: embellished hem and straps,works for all seasons,
  • What We Don’t Like: not bra friendly, hand wash only

This va-va-voom gown is the perfect balance between sexy and demure—the back is open with an adjustable lace-up detail, while the front covers the girls, and the asymmetrical hem goes up high enough to feel flirty but not scandalous. All in all, we’d award this beauty 10/10. The only downside? Because of the embellishment along the hem, petite women may have a hard time adjusting the length of this gown.

Timeless Midi

18. Show Me Your MumuClaire Midi Dress

Show Me Your Mumu

  • Size Range: XL to 3X
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: tons of color options, bra friendly, sash and shoulder bows are removable
  • What We Don’t Like: reportedly runs small

The shoulder straps on this midi are not adjustable, but do come with removable bows for an extra feminine touch. That said, the matching satin belt can be swapped out for an embellished or contrasting style if you prefer. Plus, it comes in a whopping 29 different color options, including a ‘60s floral pattern, to sweeten the deal. Some reviewers mention having to get the straps altered, particularly those on the petite side. Per one shopper, “This dress is beautiful with such a flattering fit. The neckline is so classy and the slit adds a little sass. The length is perfect, so you don’t need to get it hemmed. The only alteration needed is that the straps are a little long, but the stitching in the straps makes alterations very easy.”

Floral Cocktail Dress

19. Anthropologie Ruffled Halter Dress

Anthropologie

  • Size Range: 1X to 3X
  • Material: a blend of viscose, cotton and elastane
  • What We Like: can be worn with a strapless bra, adjustable shoulder straps, machine washable
  • What We Don’t Like: only one color option available

This figure-flattering cocktail dress is made from Anthropologie’s proprietary Magic Fabric. The blend of viscose, cotton and elastane is “expertly engineered to sculpt as it stretches,” basically smoothing your overall silhouette without feeling like constrictive shapewear. Indeed, reviews rave about how comfortable the material is, saying it really does what it says it will do. The shoulder straps are fully adjustable and the back of the bodice is smocked for extra comfort.

Do-It-All Maxi

20.  Eloquii Kimono-Sleeve Maxi Dress

Eloquii

  • Size Range: US 14 to 32
  • Material: 100 percent polyester
  • What We Like: bra-friendly, machine washable
  • What We Don’t Like: some reviewers found the neckline to be too low

This bra-friendly dress can work for any season or dress code—all you need to do it swap out your accessories, depending on the specifics. And while we adore this trendy Barbie pink hue, it also comes in black, green and blue (as well as white, but we’ll leave that particular color to just the bride). The flutter sleeves and slightly flared skirt are incredibly flattering, and according to reviews the dress runs true to size. “I love how to sleeves flutter over the arms to provide coverage without being restrictive,” writes one reviewer. “The front does fall open a bit, so no full coverage bras, but I didn't find it overly immodest. All in all, an amazing dress!”

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Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on the best running apps? She's your gal. From trend explanations to designer gossip, Abby has your back.

PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.


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Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on...