Owning Your Plus Size Wedding Guest Style
Body positivity and plus size influencers are loud and clear when it comes to tossing out the archaic ideas that all bodies must look a certain way. With so many diverse voices boosting their self-esteem, curvy girls have enough confidence to rock not only social media but also wear some of the best plus size wedding guest dresses this wedding season. Just because you aren’t what the fashion industry labels a sample size doesn’t mean you can own the size you are in a fabulous dress. The industry is changing and models and patterns are showing up in all shapes and sizes. No longer are wedding guest plus size dresses strictly sticking to a dress code of all black or only “slimming” colors but there are plenty of options for any size gal.
Plus Size Confidence: From Closet to Wedding Reception
When you feel good you look good. And that means learning how to dress the body that you have, not the one that society says you should have. When you learn what works with your shape and what features to show off then you’ll take that confidence with you from the closet to any event even as a wedding guest. Just be aware, compliments will follow, you’ve been warned.
Inclusivity in Fashion: Beyond the Runway
It seems that the fashion industry is finally catching up to what society already knows.Beauty comes in any size range. With celebs like Lizzo and models like Ashley Graham, we are witnessing more and more inclusivity in fashion. The standard of perfection showcased on the runway doesn’t translate into real life anymore and finally fashion designers are offering more and more options for plus size real life women.
Decoding Wedding Guest Dress Types
As with any dress shopping whether wedding dress, bridesmaids or wedding guest dress shopping there are a variety of silhouettes. Each style accentuates a feature or hides a trouble spot to make you feel fabulous no matter what size you are. We’ve rounded up several options from these online retailers: Eloquii, Lane Bryant, Amazon, Nordstrom, ASOS, Dia & Co
Wrap Dresses
A wrap dress is a great option for plus size wedding guest dresses. You can find this style in formal or casual styles. It is also a great style for all seasons. A wrap dress usually has a front closure with one side wrapping across the other and fastened with a bow, ribbon, button, etc…
V-Neck Asymmetrical Chiffon Bridesmaid Dress
JJ’s House •$85
This v-neck asymmetrical chiffon dress shows off a little decolletage while camouflaging any tummy insecurities. With the available colors this is a great option for plus size wedding guest dresses for fall.
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A-line Long Sleeve Chiffon V-neck Dress
AW Bridal •$99.99
Long sleeves paired with a floor length skirt and flattering V-neck to bring the Diyan dress to life.In the market for plus size formal dresses for wedding guests then this dress will have you looking radiant on the big day.
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Chiffon Faux Wrap Dress
Revelry •$189
The Harper Chiffon dress got an upgrade with her faux-wrap design, and you won’t want to take her off! Harper features an elegant silhouette with modest coverage, a flattering self-tie waist, and feminine ruffled sleeves – this dress and its flirty details are sure to make your heart skip a beat!
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A-line Dresses
An A-line dress is another great option for a plus size wedding guest dress. The cut of an a-line gown is designed to make the waist look smaller while giving the illusion of the illustrious hourglass shape with wider hips and bust. Here are some perfect plus size a-line dresses for wedding guests.
A-Line Ruched Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie •$99
Daphne is a floor-length modest bridesmaid or wedding guest dress made of chiffon with an illusion scoop neckline. Daphne features an A-line cut with cascading ruffle sleeves.
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Pleated Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie •$89
Rylee is a refreshing, plus size dress for wedding guests that features a V-neck surplice bodice with softly gathered pleats on the bodice, the silhouette is highlighted by a stunning batwing sleeves design.
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A-line Ruffle Midi Dress
ShowMeYourMumu •$188
This square neck a-line dress is filled with charm! The fitted bodice has a smocked back to achieve the perfect fit for a range of bust sizes met with a flowy midi skirt and side slit.
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Midi Dresses
Midi dresses are one of the best plus size wedding guest dresses. They flatter curvy bodies with the perfect length and show off curves in all the right places.
Satin Convertible Midi Dress
Birdy Grey •$99
This versatile, convertible midi is lovely, from its square neckline top to its romantic ruffled bottom. But this satin gown’s sweetest touch might be the removable bows at its straps.
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Ruffle Cap Sleeve Midi Dress
Nordstrom •$64.35
Ruffle-trimmed cap sleeves frame a midi dress shaped from Swiss-dot organza and styled with handy pockets.
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Ruched A-line Midi Dress
AW Bridal •$79.99
Looking for plus size wedding guest dresses for summer? The AW Alexia is an A-line piece designed with high-quality chiffon fabric. All the color options would be perfect midi plus size wedding guest dresses.
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Midi Satin Dress
Revelry •$189
Reverly’s popular Skye Satin dress is now offered in a Midi length! Skye dress is a fresh take on a classic gown that will have you feeling comfortable and elegant all night long!
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Off the Shoulder Crepe Midi Dress
AW Bridal •$79.99
Offered in some charming colors, the Charla dress is a pretty choice for a plus size wedding guest dress. The off the shoulders look is all at once elegant and romantic, while the knee length of the dress adds a flirty appeal you’ll fall in love with.
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Print Ruffle Sleeve Midi Dress
Nordstrom •$59.99
Ruffles at the shoulders and a twirly hem bring fanciful movement to a figure-skimming midi dress perfect for day and night weddings or events.
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co*cktail Dress
A co*cktail dress is a dress that is semi-formal and designed to be worn for any early afternoon into late evening social gathering. There are a variety of plus size co*cktail dresses for wedding guests to consider and here are a few from some of our favorite retailers.
Square Neck Fluted Sleeve co*cktail Dress
ASOS •$71
Plus size semi formal dresses for wedding guests are a breeze with ASOS. And this square neck fluted sleeve co*cktail dress is the kind of dress that deserves attention.
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Embroidered Jacket Dress
JCPenny •$84
This ultra-elegant 2-piece jacket dress set from Maya Brooke’s women’s plus collection will make you feel event-ready in no time.
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Lace Midi Dress
Nordstrom •$129
Gorgeous lace shapes this midi-length dress that features a delicate scallop hemline and satin tie belt at the waist.
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Slit Dresses
Don’t be afraid to show off those legs. A slit dress is a great way to showcase your gams no matter the cut of the gown. With so many options slit dresses are classy plus size wedding guest dresses because they don’t show too much skin but still look fabulous.
Plunging Neck Butterfly Sleeve Split Thigh Dress
Shein •$49.49
We love the deep v of this butterfly sleeve slit dress. Show off your curves and flash just enough skin.
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Ruffled Slit Scoop Neckline Midi Dress
ShowMeYourMumu •$168
This fitted midi dress is as flattering as it is comfortable! A square neckline and tank top straps lay the foundation for a simple silhouette, while dainty details including a slit to elevate it.
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Ruffle Sleeve Pleated Maxi Dress
ASOS •$85
This dress plus you equals the perfect plus size wedding guest dress. You’ll look like a million bucks in this red with a peekaboo slit on the side.
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One Shoulder Dresses
Don’t give them the cold shoulder, give them the one shoulder! One shoulder dresses are a great option for plus size wedding guest dresses for summer. You can showcase your tan while still looking trendy and elegant.
One Shoulder Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie •$129
If you’re in need of an absolutely daring one-shoulder plus size wedding guest dress then Molly is just the style for you. With a lovely peekaboo shoulder cutout that adds an extra flare to the classic one shoulder design, amazing pleating at the bodice and waistline, this gown gives you a touch of elegance that you’re looking for.
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One Shoulder Split Thigh Chiffon Dress
Shein •$38.49
This is the perfect plus size summer wedding guest dress. We love the color, fabric and cut of this one. It checks all the boxes.
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One Shoulder Draped Side Split Thigh Dress
Shein •$42.99
This asymmetrical one shoulder drape dress has everything going for it. And the color is an absolute lavender dream.
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Pleated One-shoulder Dress
•$34.99
This one shoulder dress is an excellent option for winter formal wear. Show a little skin but stay warm with a balloon sleeve.
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Mini Dresses
Mini dresses tend to stop above the knee. They are a great way to showcase your legs and lower half. Pair them with some sparkly shoes and you’ll have an amazing look for the wedding.
Seersucker Puff-Sleeve Dress
Macys •$30.09
Breezy and stylish in seersucker material, this plus size dress from And Now This features chic puff sleeves and an effortless babydoll silhouette.
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Asymmetrical Trim Puff-Sleeve Dress
Showpo •$79.95
Party it up this wedding season in the show stopping Harleen Mini Dress! This statement number has a smock silhouette with a paneled construction highlighted by diagonal ladder trims.
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Eloqui Flutter Sleeve Mini Dress
Target •$55.99
Swingy and comfortable. This is a great plus size wedding guest dress for summer.
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Belt Dresses
Some stylists may tell you to avoid belts if you are plus size but actually placing a belt at the smallest portion of your waist actually adds a little dimension to your waistline. Belt dresses are a great choice when it comes to plus size wedding guest dresses for this reason!
Sleeveless Solid A-Line Full-Length Dress
Walmart •$29.35
Walmart has beautiful plus size formal dresses for wedding guests. This one is beautiful with that belted waist and flutter sleeves.
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Pocket Belted Surplice Neck Flutter Dress
Bloom Chic •$29.80
Plus size wedding guest dresses with pockets and belts! Yes, please.
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Maxi Dress
A maxi dress is a fantastic option for a plus size wedding guest dress. It’s a long dress with a hem that usually touches the floor or right at the ankles. It can be as casual or as formal as you want depending on how you accessorize. Check out these maxi plus size wedding guest dresses below.
Pleated Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie •$109
Celebrate a wonderful evening wearing Lindie. If you’re looking for something fun and flirty, then Lindie is the perfect style.
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Boho Satin Tiered Maxi Dress
ShowMeYourMumu •$198
This flattering maxi has a sweetheart neckline with a smocked back to ensure a perfect fit on your bust. Flutter sleeves offer dainty coverage and a tiered skirt adds the ultimate boho flow!
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Chiffon Empire Waist Maxi Dress
Birdy Grey •$99
A soft and airy sleeveless plus size maxi dress with an empire waist. It also has an amazing slit on the left size to show off a little leg.
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Tea Length Dress
Plus size tea length dresses for wedding guests are perfect if you are looking for a modern alternative to a formal gown. Tea-length dresses usually have a hem that stops around the calf above the ankle. Like the name suggests, these are great for teas, garden parties, afternoon events and even more formal affairs.
Tea-Length Satin co*cktail Dress With Pleats
JJ’s House •$110
This dress is beautiful with its wrap midsection and a-line skirt. The sleeves and colors of these dresses make them a great option for plus size winter wedding guest dresses.
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Pleated Chiffon Tea-Length Dress
Azazie •$199
Naomi MBD is a Tea Length dress in an A-line cut with a decorative applique on the waist. Available in full size range (A0-A30) and custom sizing.
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Satin Ballgown Dress with Sleeves
From sparkling nights out to wedding guest dance floor moments, this is the right dress choice. You will turn heads at any event!
Empire Waist
An empire waist dress gathers right under the bust line. It cinches at the narrowest point and is a great option for women with a curvier bottom half because it draws the sight line to a narrow upper body. Here are our selections for a plus size empire waist dress for wedding guests.
Flutter SLeeve Empire Waist Maxi Dress
Revelry •$189
The graceful Gwen Chiffon dress is an excellent decision for plus size wedding guests looking for a more modest style and a bit more coverage provided by its angel sleeves! This style also features a front twist detail that adds sophistication to a timeless silhouette.
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Off Shoulder Twist Maxi
ASOS •$71
This off shoulder has one destination-the dancefloor. You’ll look fantastic in this Bardot neck maxi style dress.
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Off the Shoulder Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie •$99
Look exquisite while wearing Lianne. Made from chiffon, this plus size wedding guest dress or bridesmaid dress features tank straps that are joined by sheer off-the-shoulder straps supporting a fitted bodice.
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Jumpsuits
Are you looking for a plus size jumpsuit wedding guest outfit? Then look no further than these amazing options. You’ll rock a full head to toe look in any of these.
Flutter Sleeve Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Nordstrom •$129
A surplice V-neck and fluttery sleeves frame an elegant jumpsuit fashioned with an adjustable waist tie and wide-leg silhouette for occasion-ready appeal.
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Solid Surplice Neck Pocket Belt Ruffle Tiered Sleeve Jumpsuit
Bloom Chic •$32.80
Sophisticated and elegant this jumpsuit is a trendy look for any wedding guest. Available in black or navy.
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Tie-Waist Metallic Linen Jumpsuit
Macys •$62.16
A soft metallic shimmer enhances this plus size wedding guest jumpsuit from I.N.C. International Concepts, while ties at the waist lend definition to the wide-leg silhouette.
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Sleeveless Halter Jumpsuit
Lane Bryant •$44.99
With a sexy halter-neck and put-together fabric, this jumpsuit delivers room-commanding style with ease. You’ll look chic in this orange color in any season and it also comes in black.
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Lace Dresses
Lace at a wedding is a must! It can be the perfect fabric for any season. And the business of the lace material is a great way to camouflage any trouble spots or areas where you feel insecure while still giving you extreme confidence.
Lace Whisper Bodycon Cotton Dress
Nordstrom •$169
Lacy flowers completely cover each curve in this party-pretty dress hung from slim straps.Get the fit you want in a variety of sizes.
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Lace Bardot Cut Out Maxi Dress
ASOS •$140
Who says a bodycon dress has to be reserved for a particular size? This dress lets the lace hug every curve and shape.
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Livi Lace Midi Dress
•$158
This dress is designed with a feminine floral lace that instantly adds romance to your style. A modest peek-a-boo neckline, detailing at the hem and midi length add a vintage touch. Wear it to that bridal shower coming up or make it a part of your Sunday’s best.
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Embroidered Dresses
Embroidered dresses are magical! They take a simple dress to next level glam. You’ll love the detail of any of these dresses.
Floor-Length Lace Dress With Beading
JJ’s House •$134
Turn heads everywhere in this darling long embroidered plus size wedding guest dress!Multi-colored floral embroidered applique draws a beautiful picture against the sheer mesh.
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Curve Floral Embroidered Pleated Dress
Nordstrom •$88
A flowery embroidered bodice sweetens this lace-trimmed dress punctuated with a graceful pleated skirt.
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Embroidered Midi Dress
Etsy •$47.99
Take this empire waist midi dress and kick it up a notch with this beautiful chiffon dress with embroidery in between the panels.
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Dresses with Embellishments
Wearing one of these amazing plus size dresses with embellishments will have you quoting T. Swift, “When I walk in the room, I can still make the whole place shimmer!” You’ll sparkle and shine in any of these gowns.
Embellished Blouson Batwing-Sleeve Dress
Macys •$279
Adrianna Papell’s plus size blouson-bodice party dress will light up your special occasion with beading, sequins and sheer fabric.
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Sequin Gown Maxi Dress
Bloomingdale’s •$280
Like your very own disco ball! This sheer neckline sequined gown maxi is the dress for any occasion.
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Beaded Gown With Sheer Short Sleeves
Adrianna Papell •$279
Sparkle the night away in this effortless beaded gown. This formal dress features a blouson bodice with v-neckline, sheer short flutter sleeves, and a long mermaid skirt.
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Styling Your Plus Size Dress for Ceremonies
Styling your plus size dress for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners is easy when you find the fit that works for you. Once you know what neckline, what length and what color you are going to wear then you can easily pick all the remaining accessories for your outfit.
Necklines, Straps, and Waist: Defining the Silhouette
You know your body better than anyone so let’s show it off by defining your curvy silhouette. Look for plus size wedding guest dresses that offer a little fit and flare by cinching in your waist. Consider the necklines and how much cleavage you want to show off. And finally, think about your sleeves. Do you want straps, strapless, cold shoulder, or sleeves? The options truly are limitless. There are so many flattering silhouettes for plus size dresses.
Accessories: From Heels to Jewelry
Accessories are the icing on the cake or the cherry on top. You’ll need to find the right jewelry and accessories to go with your dress. Depending on the length of your hem you may need heels or flats to best complete the look. You also will need to find the right earrings, necklaces and other jewelry for your outfit. We already rounded up plenty of online retailers that offer affordable and trendy options. If you are unsure if the pieces you picked will look perfect for the day then check out these tips for finding the best bridal accessories. And remember you can never go wrong with timeless and classic pearls!
Comfort Meets Style: Puff Sleeves, Flutter Sleeves, and Belts
The worst thing you can do to yourself is pick a dress you aren’t comfortable in. There is nothing worse than pulling or fidgeting with a dress all night instead of being confident in your own skin and outfit choice. If you are insecure about your arms then consider the trendy puff sleeve or flutter sleeve look. The loose fitting tapered sleeve is a great choice for a plus size wedding guest dress for summer or spring. Puff sleeves are great for pear shapes and visually balances your upper and lower half! And if all else fails grab a sparkly belt and cinch your waist and you’ll instantly feel adorable!
Elegant Plus Size Dresses for Every Wedding Season
No matter the season, you can find a plus size wedding guest dress.
Summer Weddings
Wedding season typically falls during the summer months and here are some great options!
Floral Prints and Chiffon Fabrics
Brightly Floral Maxi Dress
ShowMeYourMumu •$198
A little Birdie told us this is the new go-to floral tiered maxi! High on the shoulders with an open v-neck with ties give this a super relaxed vibe while still looking chic.
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Clipped Jacquard Ruffle Mini Dress
Eloquii •$39.99
We love this floral ruffle mini dress. It offers plenty of flare and loose breathable material while adorned with an all over gold floral print.
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Sleeveless Floral Midi Fit + Flare Dress
JCPenny •$53.40
A high neck but sleeveless lets you stay cool no matter the venue. The loose fit of the dress with the defined waist keeps you comfortable and gives you shape.
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Breezy Outfits
Button Cuff Top & Wide Leg Pants
Shein •$25.49
The wide leg trend and matching top will look great for a summer wedding. The lightweight material and flowy style is a great outfit for any summer wedding.
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Two Piece Set Dress
Etsy •$53.60
This outfit can go from day to night depending on the accessories and shoes! The loose cut of the top and pants keeps you cool and stylish.
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Fall Weddings
Fall weddings are wonderful because depending on where you live you can be inside or outside. A fall wedding allows for great transitional options. Here are some of our favorite fall plus size wedding guest dresses.
Cozy and Comfortable Fall Dresses
Pleated Maxi Dress
Baltic Born •$39
The pleated satin on this gown flows easily and has plenty of stretch. The long bubble sleeves are perfect for a fall wedding look.
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Star Lantern Sleeve Shirred Split Dress
Bloom Chic •$38.80
You’ll look like the night sky in this beautiful star lantern sleeve dress. Dreamy and ethereal for a fall affair.
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A-Line Ruched Chiffon Floor-Length Dress
Azazie •$109
Feel like a Greek goddess while wearing the Temeka bridesmaid dress. Made from chiffon, this floor length dress features delicate sleeves with slits that flow down to the elbows as well as a flattering V-neckline and pleated waistline.
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Winter
Winter is a great season for weddings. Most people are ready to celebrate because of the holidays and the cheer is in the air. The best part about these plus size wedding guest dresses is that they can be worn to any holiday event!
Long-Sleeve Dresses
Velvet Mini Wrap Dress
Eloquii •$99.95
This long sleeve emerald wrap mini dress is what holiday party dreams are made of. We love the velvet material and how it hugs your curves in all the right spots!
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Long Sleeve Wrap Dress
Lulu’s •$99
This twirly dress kicks things off with a sultry wrap bodice and long sheer sleeves (with gathering at the shoulder and covered button deets along the cuffs), all shaped by gauzy woven fabric. A self tie cinches the fitted waist atop the full maxi skirt.
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Long Sleeve V Neck Maxi Dress
Baltic Born •$45
The red color is perfect for winter! This long sleeve v neck dress is made of high quality chiffon material that flows beautifully over your figure.
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Floral Channel Waist Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
Nordstrom •$82
Passionate pink flowers take over a romantic maxi dress flaunting voluminous puff sleeves for gorgeous animation.
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Polyester Dresses
Printed Tiered Tie Neck Maxi Dress
Macys •$89.40
Polka dot perfection is achieved with this plus size Anne Klein maxi dress. Tiered design pairs with a tie waist belt to flatter your figure and bring feminine flair to your wardrobe.
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Wrap Scalloped Trim Flutter Dress
BloomChic •$34.80
Laser cut detailing jazzes up this solid color polyester wrap dress. The deep jewel tones are perfect for winter weddings.
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Color Block Outfit with Skirt Overlay
Adrianna Papell •$189
A modern silhouette and bold color blocked fabric make this jumpsuit a statement piece no matter the time of day. This jumpsuit features a sleeveless, fitted bodice with a halter neckline, contrasting wide leg pants, and a long skirt overlay for dramatic effect.
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There is no need to feel limited when it comes to finding beautiful plus size wedding guest dresses. There are plenty of options, shapes and abrics to choose from!
Want more plus size wedding guest dresses inspiration? FollowB$B on Pinterest! Join us in ourcommunityto talk all things fashion, flower alternatives and more!
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