What is the best plus-size engagement dress?

When celebrating your upcoming wedding, you'll want to choose dresses that make you feel comfortable, elegant, and special. This can be a casual cotton midi, lace-adorned sheath, or satin maxi with pretty embellishments, like Hope & Ivy Maxi Dress . It all depends on your personal preference and the style of the party.

Do you have to wear a white dress for engagement celebrations?

Absolutely not! White dresses are fabulous for feeling your most bridal, but you can also experiment with floral prints like Reformation Jayde Dress or go for sequined styles like this gold sparkler, City Chic Aurelia Dress .

How do you style an engagement dress?

Every dress calls for amazing accessories—it’s all about personal preference. A pair of heels works any time of year, whether you prefer a classic and simple design or festive detailing like bows or sequins. Delicate sandals, flats, and sneakers are great for casual spring and summer moments while stylish boots and booties work for fall or winter parties. Another way to accessorize with with jewelry. Depending on the dress and your hair, you can add some statement earrings, necklace, bracelets, or rings. Let your personality shine through.

The 18 Best Plus-Size Engagement Dresses of 2023

Everyone thinks about finding the perfect wedding dress once you become engaged, but the reality is that you're going to need way more outfits than just that. From the engagement party to the bridal shower to the rehearsal dinner, your calendar is going to be popping with different events that need special outfits. Shopping as a plus-size bride can be more challenging, as not all brands offer extended sizes, but thankfully more brands are becoming inclusive and catering to all body types and sizes.

Dress shopping should bring you joy, so we spoke to bridal fashion experts for their advice on how to shop for bridal outfits as a plus-size bride. With their tips and tricks, we researched the best dresses that offer inclusive size ranges, supportive features, and high quality materials. From bohemian lace maxis to short sequined minis, these dresses (and jumpsuits) suit every bridal personality and occasion.

Our Top Picks

Best Sleeveless:

Lulus Taliana Lace Button Back Maxi Dress at Lulus

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Best Floral:

Reformation Jayde Dress Es at Reformation

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Best Slip:

BHLDN Cali Satin Midi Dress at Anthropologie

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Best Budget:

Cider Square Neck Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress at Shopcider.com

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Best Fringe:

ASOS Design Embellished Panelled Fringe Midi at Asos

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Best Timeless:

Amsale Deep V-Neck Dress at Amsale.com

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Best Jumpsuit:

Bridal by ELOQUII Sequin Wide Leg Jumpsuit at Eloquii.com

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Best Sparkle:

City Chic Aurelia Dress at Citychiconline.com

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Best One Shoulder:

Bridal by ELOQUII Cutout Maxi Dress at Eloquii.com

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Best Maxi:

Hope & Ivy Plus Bridal Embellished Wrap Maxi Dress at Asos

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Lulus

View On Lulus

Size: XXS - 3X | Materials: Polyester, spandex, and nylon | Shades: White | Length: Maxi

We are obsessed with the backless detail in this maxi dress. It is topped off with a mermaid-style skirt and a delicate lace train at the back hem.

Price at time of publish: $99

The Information

View On Reformation

Size: 14-24 | Materials: Viscose | Shades: Lupine | Length: Full

The beautiful purple hues tie perfectly will the flirty feel of this dress. We love that it has convertible sleeves and a smocked back for an adjustable fit. Be sure to pair it with a strapless bra for the best support.

Price at time of publish: $378

BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Size: 0-16 | Materials: Satin charmeuse | Shades: Multiple | Length: Midi

Keep things simple but sophisticated in this satin charmeuse slip dress. If your taste skews minimal, this design is a dream. Plus, this beauty has over 20 color options to choose from!

Price at time of publish: $168

Cider

View On Shopcider.com

Size: 0XL-4XL | Materials: Polyester | Shades: Beige | Length: Ankle

We can't believe this dress is under $50. Sure it's simple, but that's the beauty of it. The puff sleeves, sweetheart neckline, and satin material give it down to earth, bohemian vibe. While you may not want to show off your chest on your wedding day, the bachelorette or bridal shower is fair game, and this dress is an elegant way to celebrate your girls.

Price at time of publish: $42

ASOS Design

View On Asos

Size: 12-26 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: Beige | Length: Midi

When else are you going to wear a dress covered in beaded fringe besides your wedding festive? If you rather trade another white dress for a glamorous gold number, we recommend this one. The fringe is reminiscent of the 1920s but the long sleeves and midi length make it feel more modern. Gatsby themed party anyone?

Price at time of publish: $204

Amsale

View On Amsale.com

Size: 00 - 28 | Materials: Silk faille | Shades: White | Length: Midi

If the timeless elegance of this waist-cinching dress weren’t enough, it has pockets! This subtle detail undoubtedly seals the deal.

Price at time of publish: $385

ELOQUII

View On Eloquii.com

Size: 14 - 28 | Materials: Polyamide and spandex | Shades: White | Length: Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits are the best way to feel comfortable and confident as you celebrate your engagement. This one from ELOQUII dazzles with its all-over sequin fabric, v-neckline, and wide pant legs.

Price at time of publish: $179

City Chic

View On Citychiconline.com

Size: 12 - 24 | Materials: Polyester and elastane | Shades: Beige and black | Length: Mini

You're going to want everyone to know you're getting marries, so why not stand out? A show-stopping sequin cape-sleeve dress is the answer. The cape-effect is extra fierce, too.

Price at time of publish: $84

ELOQUII

View On Eloquii.com

Size: 14 - 28 | Materials: Linen | Shades: Ecru | Length: Maxi

If you plan on taking a trip to the water in honor of your engagement, then this beach-y frock from ELOQUI is the one for you. Made with 100% linen, the dress is breezy, comfortable, and flattering on everyone.

Price at time of publish: $119

Hope & Ivy Plus Bridal Embellished Wrap Maxi Dress

ASOS

View On Asos

Size: 14 - 20 | Materials: Polyester and chiffon | Shades: Ivory | Length: Maxi

The floral embroidered details on the sleeves and shoulders of this dress make it both a romantic and formal option for a rehearsal dinner, second wedding dress attire, and everything else you have planned before or after your big day.

Price at time of publish: $124

Pretty Little Thing

View On Prettylittlething.us

Size: 12 (L) - 26 (5X) | Materials: N/A | Shades: White | Length: Mini

A blazer dress is always a sexy option to wear for any occasion. With the addition of a corset around the waist, this piece is a must-have in your wedding closet.

Price at time of publish: $69

Amsale

View On Amsale.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue View On Shop.com

Size: 00-28 | Materials: Polyester and nylon | Shades: Ivory | Length: Knee-length

Tea party anyone? The rose fil coupe organza is a romantic touch to this elegant dress, and is great for sit-down occasions where tea or wine is in hand.

Price at time of publish: $495

Reformation

View On Reformation

Size: 14-24 | Materials: Silk | Shades: Ivory | Length: Floor-length

Channel a Grecian goddess in this elegant gown. The combination of the high halter neckline and empire waist elongates your frame. The ivory silk also creates a flowing, lit-from-within presence. We also love the open back that's adorned with two bows. Do note that you'll either need to go braless or wear an adhesive bra.

Price at time of publish: $398

ASOS Design

View On Asos

Size: 12-26 | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Shades: Beige | Length: Midi

Sometimes more is more. Feathers and a rhinestone belt buckle make this dress fun and over the top, in a good way. Plus, we love any dress that highlights our waist as well as our chest with a plunging neckline. We can't complain about the price either.

Price at time of publish: $80

Torrid

View On Torrid.com

Size: 10-30 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: White | Length: Midi

We love this lace midi dress for a warm-weather affair, whether that's a bridal shower or post-wedding brunch. The sweetheart neckline and tulle underskirt make the dress feel extra romantic. Plus the empire waist and A-line skirt creates an elongated hourglass figure.

Price at time of publish: $65

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com

Size: XXS-3X | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 8 | Length: Floor

Going on a tropical bachelorette? This maxi dress needs to be in your suitcase. The combination of the tiered skirt and flutter sleeves makes it perfectly laidback for a brunch or dinner by the beach. Smocking in the back ensures the top fits your bust, whether it's big or small. This dress comes in eight different shades, so you can stick to classic white or ivory or switch it up with champagne or a pretty pastel.

Price at time of publish: $114

Eloquii

View On Eloquii.com

Size: 14-28 | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Shades: True White | Length: Mini

While you may not want to wear a mini dress for your actually wedding, the pre-wedding events are a great occasion to show some leg. We love how this one ushers in the 1960s with it's swingy silhouette, mock neck, and puff sleeve. You barely have to accessorize it since it already comes with a scarf. All you need is a good pair of statement earrings.

Price at time of publish: $99

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Runs: True to Size | Size: 00 - 22W | Materials: Nylon, cotton, and spandex | Shades: Ivory, grey, and black | Length: Knee-length

What’s more quintessential than lace for a bride? This knee-length style gives off a modern and edgy twist with its black ribbon belt and center corset detailing.

Price at time of publish: $258

Meet the Expert

Danielle Williams Eke is the design director of the luxury size-inclusive retailer, 11 Honoré. With a specialty in extended sizes, Williams Eke pioneers patterns, fits, and silhouettes for the plus-size consumer and spearheads the design team and production of the retailer’s private label, the 11 Honoré Collection.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Plus-Size Dress

Silhouette

“When thinking about wedding-related events, I always say go for the silhouettes that work best for you,” says Danielle Williams Eke, 11 Honoré’s design director. “Don’t feel like you have to try something new silhouette-wise. Let the details of the dress and the styling help you stand out for your special day.”

Williams Eke favors figure-accentuating fits, including V-necklines, halters, and waist-cinching sheaths, as well as unique details, such as ruching, asymmetrical hems, or a voluminous silhouette. With its halter neck and high waist, Reformation's Alani Silk Dress create a goddess like stature. These types of attributes will create that unforgettable "wow" factor—you are the bride, after all!

Occasion

After considering your own personal style, keep the specific occasion in mind—and what kind of statement you're looking to make. For a laid-back engagement party or bridal shower, Williams Eke recommends easy silhouettes, such as a wrap dress or fluid midis in elevated casual fabrics like stretch linen and textured organic cotton. Whether it be in a backyard, the mountains, or even seaside, silhouettes and fabrics such as these pair beautifully with an outdoor event. Made from breathable linen with stylish cutouts, we like Eloquii Cutout Maxi Dress for an outdoor celebration. This will create a romantic yet luxurious look for the effortlessly chic bride. For dressier looks suited to a rehearsal dinner or wedding-day brunch, dare to make a statement by opting for bold details and sharp silhouettes. A plunging neckline and A-line skirt make Amsale Deep V-Neck Dress ideal for a glam dinner.

FAQ

What is the best plus-size engagement dress?

When celebrating your upcoming wedding, you'll want to choose dresses that make you feel comfortable, elegant, and special. This can be a casual cotton midi, lace-adorned sheath, or satin maxi with pretty embellishments, like Hope & Ivy Maxi Dress. It all depends on your personal preference and the style of the party.
Do you have to wear a white dress for engagement celebrations?

Absolutely not! White dresses are fabulous for feeling your most bridal, but you can also experiment with floral prints like Reformation Jayde Dress or go for sequined styles like this gold sparkler, City Chic Aurelia Dress.
How do you style an engagement dress?

Every dress calls for amazing accessories—it’s all about personal preference. A pair of heels works any time of year, whether you prefer a classic and simple design or festive detailing like bows or sequins. Delicate sandals, flats, and sneakers are great for casual spring and summer moments while stylish boots and booties work for fall or winter parties.
Another way to accessorize with with jewelry. Depending on the dress and your hair, you can add some statement earrings, necklace, bracelets, or rings. Let your personality shine through.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Laura Lajines is a writer and editor covering all things fashion. Prior to her work with Brides, she served as the senior fashion editor at the Zoe Report and PopSugar. Her work has also been featured in Elle, InStyle, Glamour, Refinery 29, Well+Good, and Barneys New York.

17 Stunning Plus-Size Wedding Dresses for Every Style and Budget