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If you love dressing up, it’s not hard to find occasion to do so — events like cocktail parties, milestone birthdays, and spring weddings can all provide the perfect opportunity to show off your signature style. However, for plus-size folks, finding the perfect outfit can be a significantly more challenging proposition than it is for those who fall into the straight-size range. The good news? Plus-size exclusive lines are growing in numbers and many formerly straight-size brands are finally expanding their size ranges, making it easier to find the perfect fit.
And luckily, we’re no longer faced with the drab plus-size options that once lined department store racks: today, you can choose plus-size cocktail dresses for weddings that feature sheer and flowy fabrics, sequins, floral designs, and stylish details like feather trim and elegant ruching, just to name a few of our favorite styles. If you’re still not sure where to start your hunt for that elusive party-ready frock, we’ve rounded up 25 of the very best plus-size cocktail wedding guest dresses that are sure to make you look and feel your best. Click through to find a showstopper that’s sure to turn heads.
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Reformation Marguerite Silk Dress
We’re starting off strong with an R29-reader-favorite Reformation dress, which goes up to a size 24. The stunning floral print against the pastel sage green fabric makes for a show-stopping piece, especially for an outdoor garden soirée.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Marguerite Silk Dress, $, available at Reformation
Eloquii Ruched One Shoulder Dress
Check out this flattering asymmetrical bodycon dress in wine red, classic black, or neon yellow. The sleek cocktail dress is available in sizes 14 through 32 and right now, certain styles are marked down to as little as $20.
Shop Eloquii
Eloquii Ruched One Shoulder Dress, $, available at Eloquii
GIA/irl Delilah Mini Dress
Don’t get it twisted: a mini dress can make for an excellent cocktail wedding guest dress, too. We’re currently drooling over this simple mini slip dress, which is available up to a size 30.
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Gia/IRL Delilah Mini Dress, $, available at Gia/IRL
Show Me Your Mumu Greta Dress
Show Me Your Mumu has a large selection of flirty, feminine, and spring-ready plus-size dresses. This stunning ruffle dress is not only a great choice for wedding guests, but also a knockout for bridal parties, thanks to its inclusive size range, which spans from XXS to 3X!
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Show Me Your Mumu Greta Dress, $, available at Show Me Your Mumu
BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress
We’re obsessed with this satin gown for more formal, black tie weddings. And luckily, it’s available in sizes 16W to 26W and eight stunning colorways, making it pretty tempting to stock your closet with more than one.
Shop Anthropologie
BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Laws of Motion The Zest Dress
Spring isn’t just for florals… it’s also for feathers! This mini cocktail dress is sleek and chic. Plus, Laws of Motion offers personalized “precision sizes” between 00 and 40, courtesy of the brand’s fit quiz and body scan.
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Laws of Motion The Zest Dress, $, available at Laws of Motion
Ever-Pretty Plus Size Off Shoulder Ruffle Chiffon Formal Dress
Ever-Pretty offers stunning plus-size wedding guest dresses, and finding them on Amazon makes it even sweeter. We’re personally a big fan of this off-the-shoulder, floor-length dress, available up to size 36.
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Ever Pretty Plus Size Off Shoulder Ruffle Chiffon Formal Dress, $, available at Amazon
Birdy Grey James Satin Midi Dress
This Birdy Grey design may be geared toward bridesmaids, but it’s so stylish that you’ll want to wear it any chance you get. The brand, known for creating timeless silhouettes, has made the perfect plus-size wedding guest dress with this design, which combines soft ruffles and a high-low skirt. The made-to-order dress comes in tons of colors and sizes up to 3X.
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Birdy Grey James Satin Midi Dress, $, available at Birdy Grey
Sydney’s Closet Conquer the Night Formal Dress
If your next wedding is a fancy schmancy affair, you’ll want to check out the luxury gowns from Sydney’s Closet. We’re eyeing this sequin Art-Deco-inspired dress, available up to size 20.
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Sydney’s Closet Conquer the Night Formal Dress, $, available at Sydney’s Closet
PrettyLittleThing Plus Black Underwire Detail Draped Midi Dress
Did you know that PrettyLittleThing has dresses perfect for special occasions? Well, now you do. Make a statement in this draped cocktail dress with a sultry slit, which comes in multiple colors and sizes 12 through 26.
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PrettyLittleThing Plus Black Underwire Detail Draped Midi Dress, $, available at PrettyLittleThing
Never Fully Dressed Gold Plisse Dress
Never Fully Dressed offers several dresses available up to size 24 or XXXL, like this style that’ll have you feeling like a golden goddess. We’re ready to cart up this pleated style for our next wedding… or literally any special occasion.
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Never Fully Dressed Gold Plisse Dress, $, available at Never Fully Dressed
Cider Curve & Plus Metallic Sequin Mini Dress
Cider’s Curve & Plus shop has a host of everyday and elevated styles, including wedding-guest-appropriate dresses. But what makes this fun and festive mini dress even better? The fact that it comes in sizes up to 26 and costs just $38.
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cider Curve & Plus Metallic Sequin Mini Dress, $, available at Cider
ASOS Curve Pleated Midi Dress with Kimono Sleeve
ASOS’ Curve line is also a great place to look for cocktail dresses. This flowy midi dress, available up to size 26, is so romantic, chic, and the waist belt is super flattering.
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ASOS CURVE Pleated Midi Dress with Kimono Sleeve, $, available at ASOS
Hutch 3D Rosette Strapless Mini Dress
We won’t stop talking about how red is *the* color of the year or that rosettes and bows are trending for spring wedding guest dresses. And clearly, this Hutch mini dress, which comes in sizes up to 3X, is the perfect way to jump on both trends with a style that still exudes timeless elegance.
Shop Anthropologie
Hutch 3D Rosette Strapless Mini Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Lulus Thoughts of Hue Surplice Maxi Dress
Lulus is many shoppers’ go-to destination for affordable occasion wear, so we’re flagging this romantic maxi dress. The black, navy, and blush pink options of this romantic style are all available in sizes XXS through 3X, making it a perfect pick for wedding guests and bridal parties alike.
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Lulus Thoughts of Hue Surplice Maxi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Renee C Satin One-Shoulder Dress
R29 readers know that Nordstrom Rack consistently delivers stylish fits at affordable prices, like this striking one-shoulder mini dress. Pick between five glossy satin springtime shades in sizes 1X through 3X.
Shop Nordstrom Rack
RENEE C Satin One-Shoulder Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Karen Millen Plus Size Stretch Jersey Sequin Mini Dress
If you want a style that’s fun, festive, sparkly, and short, look no further than this sequin mini dress from Karen Millen. This glamorous cocktail dress is perfectly unique out of the box. Cart it up in sizes XL through XXXL.
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Karen Millen Plus Size Stretch Jersey Sequin Mini Dress, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Topshop Curve Long Sleeve Riveria Occasion Dress
“Citron Zest” is a trending color for 2024, so we just had to include this cheery Topshop find. Courtesy of the brand’s Curve line, this style is available in sizes from 12 to 22.
Shop ASOS
Topshop Curve Long Sleeve Riveria Occasion Dress, $, available at ASOS
Anthropologie Halter Plissé Maxi Dress
On its own, this racerback plissé dress, available in sizes 1X through 3X, is relatively simple and casual. But it’s easily dressed up with statement heels, purses, jewelry, or hair accessories.
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Anthropologie Halter Plissé Maxi Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Baacal Beaded Cabaret Slip Dress
If you’re looking to invest in a dress that you’ll be able to dress up or down and re-wear a number of times, consider this beaded number from Baacal, available in sizes 1X through 4X. Just hurry if you want to snag one of your own because it’s quickly selling out.
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BAACAL Beaded Cabaret Slip Dress, $, available at BAACAL
Selkie The Poet Slip Dress
We already know and love Selkie’s puffy mini dresses — and we think this ultra-romantic silk style makes for the perfect wedding guest dress. While this style is also quickly selling out, it’s still available in sizes up to 6X.
Shop Revolve
Revolve The Poet Slip Dress, $, available at Selkie
Jessakae Jubilee Dress
Attending an outdoor wedding this spring? Consider this eclectic and exuberant floral dress, which comes in sizes L/10 through 6X/36.
Shop Dia & Co
Jessakae Jubilee Dress, $, available at Dia & Co.
Adrianna Papell Plus Size Crinkle Metallic Gown with Bishop Sleeves
If you prefer sleeved styles but don’t want to find yourself sweating in unpredictable spring weather, a sheer, flowy sleeve may be the answer. This style from Adrianna Papell comes in sizes 0 through 26 and has a hint of stretch for extra comfort.
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Adrianna Papell Plus Size Crinkle Metallic Gown with Bishop Sleeves, $, available at Adrianna Papell
Kiyonna Embroidered Elegance Evening Gown
Another floral option to consider is this popular Kiyonna maxi dress. The embroidered design, flutter sleeves, and mesh overlay are whimsical and beautiful. Cop it in sizes 10 through 5X.
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Kiyonna Embroidered Elegance Evening Gown, $, available at Kiyonna
Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Tea Length Dress
Combining a tea-length style and sleek sequins, this wedding guest dress is every bit as elegant as it is unexpected. This Mac Duggal style is available in sizes 2 through 24 and its light weight and long sleeves make it a perfect fit for multiple seasons.
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Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Tea Length Dress, $, available at Mac Duggal
Anthropologie Maeve Scalloped Buttondown Dress
Best Formal Plus-Size Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
Dress in your Sunday best with a preppy scalloped mini. The intricate details and tailoring create a one-of-a-kind silhouette. The mini style is a must-have spring wedding guest dress with its lining, curved scallops, and golden buttons.
Shop Maeve at Anthropologie
Maeve Scalloped Buttondown Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Chelsea28 Eyelet Embroidered Cutout Bracelet Sleeve Midi Dress
Best Embroidered Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
Look as pretty as a wildflower in this pink eyelet embroidered midi dress. The charming frock has side waist cutouts and a deep V-neck for a bit of sass.
Shop Chelsea28 at Nordstrom
Chelsea28 Eyelet Embroidered Cutout Bracelet Sleeve Midi Dress, $, available at Nordstrom
Good American Ruched Mesh Maxi Dress
Best Figure-Hugging Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-5X
Good American crafted its ruched maxi dress out of ultra-stretchy mesh fabric for you to stay comfy and for the dress to hug you in all the right places. The ruching up the side adds an attractive detail to the already-quirky faint patchwork denim print.
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Good American Ruched Mesh Maxi Dress, $, available at Good American
Asos Design Curve Exclusive Size Front Plunge Maxi Dress In Orange Abstract Print
Best Maxi Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 12-26
Bring all the warm shades of the sunset to your next cocktail party. The lightweight maxi has long sleeves to keep you warm if the weather is a bit nippy, but it doesn’t shy away from bold details like its plunge tie-neck.
Shop Asos Design Curve at Asos
ASOS DESIGN Curve Tie Front Plunge Maxi Dress In Orange Abstract Print, $, available at ASOS
SLNY Braid Beaded Neck Chiffon Cascade Ruffle Dress
Best Chiffon Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
Stay true to wedding guest dresses with a chiffon piece. SLNY introduces one with a braided neckline that is adorned with beads. The sparkle and cascading ruffle are the main attraction of this graceful number.
Shop SLNY at Nordstrom Rack
SLNY Braid Beaded Neck Chiffon Cascade Ruffle Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Reformation Tarragon Marguerite Silk Dress Es
Best Plus-Size Garden Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 14-24
Exude vintage vibes in a silk faux wrap dress. The stunning floral print against the pastel sage green background is a show-stopping piece for any outdoor garden soirée.
Shop Reformation
Reformation Marguerite Silk Dress Es, $, available at Reformation
Karen Millen Plus Size Embellished High Low Hem Knit Midi Dress
Best Embellished Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: XL-XXXL
When it comes to wedding guest attire, you don’t kid around. Glide into a dramatic embellished high and low knit midi dress to stand out among the crowd of guests. The front has sparkly lead-shaped embellishments, while the back has a modern back cutout.
Shop Karen Millen
Karen Millen Plus Size Embellished High Low Hem Knit Midi Dress, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Eloquii Tiered Puff Sleeve Dress
Best Airy Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 14-32
Feel like a dainty fairy in Eloquii’s Tiered Puff Sleeve Dress. The midi dress is super-breezy with its mesh long puff sleeves and tiered full skirt. You can choose from whimsical pastel shades like pale pink and a golden hue.
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Eloquii Tiered Puff Sleeve Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Renee C Satin One-Shoulder Dress
Best One-Shoulder Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
Who’s ready to party? Let loose in a striking one-shoulder midi dress. The glossy satin fabric brings the shine you need when dancing the night away. The luxe silhouette comes in multiple spring/summer shades such as rose, steel blue, tea green, and melon.
Shop Renee C at Nordstrom Rack
RENEE C Satin One-Shoulder Dress, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Birdy Grey James Satin Midi Dress Curve
Best Plus-Size Midi Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
At first glance, you wouldn’t have even known this was considered a bridesmaid dress. Birdy Grey creates timeless silhouettes that suit various events, and the James Midi dress is one of them. The soft ruffles and high-low skirt complements any dreamy wedding. Meanwhile, the sash — which can be removed and adjusted — ties the whole look together.
Shop Birdy Grey
Birdy Grey James Satin Midi Dress Curve, $, available at Birdy Grey
Universal Standard New Standard Jersey Wrap Dress In Deep Sea
Best Comfy Plus-Size Wrap Cocktail Dress
Size Range: 12-32
There’s not just one single thing that makes this Univeral Standard wrap dress stand out among the pack. One happy customer notes that, unlike many other wrap-dress options, it actually keeps you comfortably covered without gaps or gaping. Another reviewer cites “the high-quality material” as the reason for its greatness. Still others gush about fun details, like the sleeves and high-low hem. Another reviewer simply states “This is the best wrap dress I’ve found.”
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Universal Standard New Standard Jersey Wrap Dress, $, available at Universal Standard
Lulus Reinette Mauve Purple Midi Dress
Best Overall Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
This is the dress everyone wants in their wedding guest arsenal: a no-brainer option you can wear again and again. With just the right amount of sexy sophistication, the midi length is also ideal for tall and short people alike.
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Lulus Reinette Mauve Purple Midi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Universal Standard Rivers Wrap Dress
Best Plus-Size Wrap Cocktail Dress
Shop Universal Standard
Universal Standard Rivers Wrap Dress, $, available at Universal Standard
Eloquii The Nabela Dress
Best Plus-Size Cocktail Dress For a Bride-To-Be
Size Range: 14-28
The white dress isn’t just about the wedding day: May brides-to-be opt to wear the color for engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, or showers. This flowy, creamy number feels polished and chic. One reviewer claims to “have never felt more beautiful in a dress.”
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Eloquii The Nabela Dress, $, available at Eloquii
ASOS DESIGN Curve ruched tiered midi dress in floral print with lace trim
Best Plus-Size Cocktail Dress For Transitional Weather
Size Range: 12-20
Although sheer, this dress is perfect for that in-between fall and summer where you don’t want to feel too stuffy. It’s flowy yet has a decent amount of coverage, so it’s able to take on any temps, even when there’s a slight chill in the air.
Shop ASOS
ASOS DESIGN Curve ruched tiered midi dress in floral print with lace trim, $, available at ASOS
Mare Mare Cut-Out Shift Dress
Best Plus-Size Holiday Cocktail Dress
Size Range: 1X-3X
Subtle cut-outs are a way to take a classic cocktail dress to the next level. This bright red dress is also the perfect festive color for December and beyond: Pair it with a turtleneck for the office holiday party and with sparkly heels and earrings to ring in the new year.
Shop Anthropologie
Mare Mare Cut-Out Shift Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Abercrombie & Fitch Faux Silk High-Slit Midaxi Dress
Best Plus-Size Cocktail Dress For A Tropical Vacation
Size Range: XXS-XXXL
Who would have guessed this mall standby would actually grow up — and expand its size range to boot? These days, A&F is more about classic staples and less about logo tees. This floral number is perfect for a vacation getaway. Many happy customers gush that it’s a “compliment magnet” noting details like a side zipper and adjustable straps also make it comfortable.
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Abercrombie and Fitch High-Slit Midaxi Dress, $, available at Abercrombie and Fitch
Wray Nina Dress – Chili Pepper
Best One-Shoulder Plus-Size Cocktail Dress
Size Range: XXS-6XL
Wray NYC makes beautifully structured dresses in a sustainable way. Its Nina dress is a firey excuse to wear bright red. Good for just about any occasion from weddings to birthdays and baby showers, the adjustable waist also lets you adjust how fitted it is. The one-shoulder adds a nice that’s way more exciting than two full sleeves.
Shop Wray
Wray Nina Dress – Chili Pepper, $, available at Wray
Eloquii Sheer Mini Dress
Best Plus-Size Mini Cocktail Dress
Size Range: 14-28
Reviewers can’t get enough of this elegant dress from Eloquii. According to a happy customer, “the color is gorgeous, the textured pattern makes it look high quality, and the comfort is 10/10.”
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Eloquii Sheer Mini Dress, $, available at Eloquii
Who What Wear Short Sleeve Button-Up Trapeze Dress
Best Button-Down Plus-Size Cocktail Dress
Size Range: 1X-4X
Not all shirt dresses are fancy enough for a cocktail party, but the extra crisp collar and sophisticated tailoring make this dress easy to “dress it up or go casual” according to reviewers. Made from 100% cotton, it’s also a seamless day-to-night option.
Shop Target
Target x Who What Wear Women’s Short Sleeve Button-Up Trapeze Dress – Who What Wear™, $, available at Target
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