For every bride-to-be, finding the perfect wedding gown is one of the most exciting—and sometimes challenging parts of wedding planning. It’s more than just a dress; it’s a statement of confidence, elegance, and individuality.
When searching for “the one” (dress, that is), plus-size brides often look for styles that enhance their natural beauty while providing comfort and confidence. From timeless silhouettes to modern designs, there are countless ways to highlight curves and create a breathtaking bridal look.
WE Fashion Editor and designer, Rey Santos, shares his insights on the best gown styles for plus-size and mid-size brides.
“My advice for mid or plus-size brides is to go for ball gowns and sheath dresses. These styles work best because they elongate the body and highlight the features they want to accentuate. I think those are the two main styles that truly flatter their body type.”
WE Top Tips for Plus-Size Brides When Choosing a Wedding Gown
- Find the Right Fit, Not Just the Right Size
Wedding dress sizes often differ from everyday clothing, so don’t focus on the number on the tag. Instead, prioritize how the gown fits and flatters your body shape. A well-tailored dress that enhances your best features will always look stunning. - Opt for Supportive and Comfortable Fabrics
Structured fabrics like satin, Mikado, and tulle offer great support, while flowing fabrics like chiffon and organza create an ethereal effect. Consider gowns with built-in corsetry or boning for added shape and support. - Highlight What You Love Most About Your Body
Whether it’s your waist, neckline, or décolletage, choose a gown that accentuates your favorite features. A-line dresses cinch at the waist for a flattering shape, while V-necklines and off-shoulder styles draw attention to the upper body in an elegant way.
With that in mind, here are some of the most flattering wedding gown styles that will make any plus-size bride feel radiant on her big day.
A-Line
The A-line wedding gown is one of the most timeless and versatile styles. With its fitted waistline and gently flared skirt, this dress creates a beautiful silhouette that highlights your natural shape. The A-line cut enhances your figure while giving you a smooth, graceful look. If you want to achieve that “magical” bridal effect, this dress is an excellent choice.
Empire waist
For brides looking to emphasize grace and elegance, the Empire waist gown is a wonderful option. This style features a fitted bodice just under the bust, with the rest of the fabric flowing freely downward. The Empire waist is not only comfortable, but this also creates a lovely, sophisticated look. If you’re looking for a dress that combines comfort and style, this one is worth trying.
Trumpet wedding dress
The Trumpet-style wedding gown is similar to the mermaid cut, but with a slightly more relaxed fit. This dress hugs your curves before flaring out at the knee, creating a stunning, sultry silhouette. If you want a gown that highlights your curves while keeping things elegant and chic, the Trumpet dress is a perfect choice for your big day.
Jumpsuit/trouser
For a more unconventional yet equally stylish option, consider a jumpsuit or trouser wedding style. This unique choice makes a bold statement, showing off your confidence and individuality. If you’re looking for something a bit different from the traditional gown, this sharp and fierce look will certainly turn heads and keep you feeling fabulous.
Off-shoulder
Off-shoulder dresses are perfect for highlighting your shoulders and adding a touch of femininity. If you enjoy showing off a bit of skin while still keeping it classy, an off-shoulder gown will never disappoint. This style strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance, making it ideal for a relaxed yet stunning wedding look.
Sleeves
If you want to create a more slender effect for your arms, consider a wedding dress with sleeves. This style gently covers your arms while still showcasing a chic, fashionable silhouette. Whether you choose long sleeves or short, this option provides a beautiful, conservative yet modern look. If simplicity and sophistication are what you’re after, this style is the way to go.
Ballgown
For brides who are drawn to classic styles, a satin ballgown is an excellent choice. With its voluminous skirt and dramatic silhouette, this gown is the epitome of fairytale elegance. The ballgown enhances your curves while providing a show-stopping effect. If you’ve always dreamed of a truly grand wedding dress.
Tulle Dress
Tulle dress is an excellent option for brides looking for something light and airy. This fabric offers volume without overwhelming the body, creating a soft, ethereal look that’s perfect for a romantic wedding. If you’re drawn into delicate style while emphasizing your body shape, a tulle dress is a lovely way to express your style while staying comfortable and chic.
Moreover, Santos emphasized that the key to choosing the perfect wedding gown is selecting one that truly reflects the bride’s personality and individuality.
“It’s a personal choice—it should highlight what flatters their body type while staying true to who they are,” he explained. To help brides navigate the overwhelming number of options, Santos uses an assessment form.
“Many brides come in with conflicting preferences, and this process helps me understand their personality and guide them toward a dress that suits them best,” he added.
The perfect wedding dress isn’t just about trends—it’s about feeling beautiful, confident, and completely yourself on your big day. With these tips and the right gown style, plus-size brides can shine just as they deserve to!
