Th 20 best plus size formal dresses to wear this wedding season

Size range: 10-32

Dia & Co is easily the best place to shop for plus size formal dresses, thanks to its continued catering to plus size, curvy, and fat bodies. Dia & Co differs from the other retailer-specific brands in this guide for its emphasis on independent and boutique brands that are pushing the fat-people goal of stylish, luxury clothes. 

They host some of my favorite brands, like Gia/irl, Sydney's Closet, 11 Honoré, Alfred Sung, Jessa Kae, and Tanya Taylor. Their handy online personal stylist tool can provide you with expert tips when searching for the best plus size formal dresses.

Size range: 12-26

 You may have already shopped at ASOS for sequined mini skirts or puff-sleeved cottage-core dresses, but it's also the best place to find affordable plus-size formal dresses. ASOS excels with their mid-ranged priced formal dresses from their own ASOS DESIGN collection, which designs its curve styles for fat bodies.

Simple yet stunning slip dresses, available in various cuts, patterns, and styles, are priced starting from around $26, while more extravagant gowns with detailed beading can be found for upwards of $400. Additionally, ASOS is always having some sort of sale and offers a student discount for extra savings on their already inexpensive styles. 

Size range: 14-32

Housed under the Full-Beauty Brands catalog of size-inclusive brands, Eloquii remains dedicated to trendy styles with a focus on the plus-size fit, and has expanded that mindset with its bridal collection. Both Leitz and Cruz recommend Eloquii for their plus-size formal gowns that can be worn to weddings, whether you're a guest, bridal party member, or the main event yourself. These require minimal tailoring and provide unique options for a custom feel.

"What I absolutely love about [Eloquii] is how they're making decent quality, stylish options accessible without breaking the bank," says Leitz.

Yesenia Torres, VP of Design and Creative Director for ELOQUII & CUUP spoke to Business Insider about the process of designing the bridal collection. "We fit every single garment in-house, multiple times, on a live fit model. We don't just stop at a static fitting — we have our model move around, sit, walk, and even dance like a real bride would on her big day," she says.

Size range: 14-40

No more crying in a dressing room because all the plus size prom dresses are just plain ugly, too expensive, or not offered in your size. Prom dress shopping is supposed to be fun, and Sydney's Closet is making that possible. When I spoke to fashion writer Marcy Cruz, she emphasized the importance of current options for young shoppers that accommodate fat body types. She referred me to Sydney's Closet because they design specifically for plus sizes. 

Choose from their satin mermaid cut bodycon dresses, floor-length sequin gowns, and big tulle princess gowns in different color palettes for varying style tastes. You can try styles on in-store at an authorized retailer (mainly located in the Northeastern United States) or work with the brand's return and exchange policy if you need a new size. 

Size range: 12-30

Nordstrom is my personal go-to for formal evening gowns, especially when I need to try on an expensive style in-store. The luxury fashion retailer is the place to shop for the best plus size formal dresses when you need something extra special for an extravagant date night, black tie event, wedding festivities, or anywhere that calls for an evening gown.

Nordstrom offers a dedicated roster of popular luxury plus size brands like Tadashi Shoji, Kiyonna, Mac Duggal, and Betsy & Adam. I spoke to plus size fashion stylist Michaela Leitz on her recommendations on fashionable formal attire. "Xscape Evenings really has a knack for curating those stunning, timeless pieces. And it's great to see them include some 'on-trend' gowns too," said Leitz.

Size range: 0-30

Mac Duggal offers a revolving collection of the most exquisite formal dresses and gowns with detailed stitching, embroidery, and bead work that'll make you feel like a walking work of art. The long-sleeve and high-neck options from Mac Duggal cater to those seeking a modest plus size formal dress, providing ample coverage without compromising on style. There are a variety of styles of plus size mother-of-the-bride dresses or any individual in need of modest formal wear can explore couture-level designs with high-quality materials. 

And because everyone deserves a chance to try on the best plus size formal dresses in person, check your nearest Nordstrom for this brand — especially the plus-size specific Fabulouss by Mac Duggal collection.

Size range: 10-30

Fat people want formal dresses that don't look boring or try and hide everything away. That's where GIA/irl comes in: with trendy plus size dresses, shirts, pants, and other clothing without compromising on fit, material, or overall look.

"[GIA/irl] likes to design pieces that you do not always see for plus size bodies, and then we take curves and different body shapes into consideration," shares the brand's founder, Gia Sinatra.

According to Sinatra, each piece is fitted on a plus size body and goes through wear testing for further critiques and any needed design changes. The brand's designs cater to the fat body with material draping that accentuates the different body types while showing off the plus size figure in all its glory.

Size range: XXS-6X

Whimsical gowns taken straight from fairy tales is what Selkie is all about. The brand's dedication to high-quality designs, durable materials, and precise fit earns its spot on the list with all its dresses made in extended sizes up to 6X. Selkie designs have been seen on plus-size celebrities and models like Tess Holiday, Lynley Eilers, and Jazzmyne Robbins.

Designer and founder Kimberley Gordon creates romantic, unique statement dresses that make you feel like a magical fairy running through the forest while also giving sultry siren vibes. Layers of polyester organza and cotton paired with impeccable stitch work will make you the spotlight of any event. Be prepared for endless compliments with any of the fantasy-inspired dresses that offer various looks for different style palettes.

Size range: 14-32 

Nuuly is URBN Brands' response to the growing demand for sustainable clothing sharing, and their plus size offerings make it easy to try on different styles while being mindful of your wallet and clothing waste. Consider this brand when you need an expensive gown that you'll probably only wear once anyway. With the $98 monthly subscription package, you can rent any 6 items from the site, and then send them back after a month.

In the plus size formal dresses category, Nuuly offers trendy and event-worthy looks from URBN brands like Free People, along with fat-friendly brands like Hutch, Eloquii, and Sachin & Babi. Insider Reviews Deputy Editor Lauren Savoie used Nuuly to rent the best plus size formal dresses and recommends their selection of Anthropologie and BHLDN dresses.

Size range: Made to measure

What's more luxurious than a custom couture gown for a wedding, gala, or just because you want to feel like royalty? Omaha based designer Hannah Nodskov founded Hannah Caroline Couture to create fully and semi-customized gowns tailored to fit every aspect of your body: curves, rolls, wide-set stomachs, thick thighs, and all the rest.

You can book an in-person or virtual measuring session with Nodskov, who'll chat with you to create the luxury dress of your dreams. Marcy Cruz loves working with independent designers like Nodskov, who specializes in custom tailoring for plus sizes.

"Hannah Caroline is one of my faves. We have made some gorgeous pieces together [inspired by] red-carpet looks I have seen on straight-size celebrities but [with my] style twist," says Cruz.