Plus Size Wedding Dresses: Complete Shopping Guide

Plus size brides can choose from A-line, ball gown, and empire waist silhouettes at retailers like David's Bridal (sizes to 30), Madi Lane (sizes 2-28), and specialized boutiques carrying sizes 14-36+¹. Expect to pay $1,500-$2,500 USD with most modern designers maintaining size-inclusive pricing across all sizes². Budget $300-$1,000 for alterations regardless of size, with structured bodices and quality fabrics providing the most flattering fit³.

The plus size bridal market has expanded significantly in 2025. Major designers now offer sizes up to 32 as standard, with specialized retailers extending to size 36 and beyond. Custom sizing remains available for brides requiring larger sizes or specific proportions.

Price parity has become the industry standard. While some traditional designers still charge premiums for extended sizes, most contemporary brands recognize that fabric costs represent a small percentage of total production expenses. Modern manufacturing techniques and size-inclusive business practices mean brides of all sizes access the same styles at the same prices.

Best Silhouettes for Plus Size Brides

The most flattering wedding dress silhouette depends on your body shape, personal style, and comfort level. These five styles consistently receive the highest satisfaction ratings from plus size brides.

A-Line Dresses

A-line silhouettes fit snugly at the bodice and gradually widen from the waist to create a triangular shape. The fitted bodice defines your waist while the flowing skirt glides over hips and thighs without clinging. This universally flattering style works for nearly every body type and venue.

A-line dresses provide excellent freedom of movement for dancing and sitting. The structured bodice offers support without requiring excessive boning or padding. Quality fabrics like mikado, duchess satin, and structured tulle maintain the shape throughout your wedding day.

Prices range from $800-$3,000 depending on fabric and embellishment complexity. For more details on this timeless style, see our complete A-line dress guide.

Ball Gown Silhouettes

Ball gowns feature fitted bodices paired with full, voluminous skirts. This dramatic silhouette creates a balanced proportion by emphasizing the upper body while the skirt flows from the natural waist. The princess-worthy style remains popular for formal church ceremonies and ballroom receptions.

The structured bodice typically includes boning and often a corset back, providing excellent support for fuller busts. Multiple layers of tulle, organza, or crinoline create the signature volume without adding weight. Many plus size brides appreciate how the full skirt conceals the lower body while drawing attention to the neckline and shoulders.

Ball gowns require careful fitting to ensure the bodice doesn't gap or dig in. The waistline should sit at your natural waist for the most flattering proportion. Expect to pay $1,200-$4,000 for quality ball gowns with proper structure.

Empire Waist Designs

Empire waist dresses feature a seam just below the bust, with the skirt flowing loosely from this high waistline. This Regency-era inspired silhouette elongates the torso and creates a graceful, flowing line. The style works particularly well for brides who want to minimize focus on the midsection.

The empire waist provides exceptional comfort with no restriction at the natural waist. Flowing fabrics like chiffon, soft tulle, and jersey create beautiful movement. This silhouette suits outdoor weddings, beach ceremonies, and less formal celebrations.

Consider empire waist styles if you're pregnant, as they accommodate changing body shapes better than other silhouettes. The loose skirt allows for natural movement and dancing without restriction. Prices typically range from $600-$2,500.

Fit-and-Flare Styles

Fit-and-flare dresses (also called trumpet or mermaid silhouettes) hug the body through the bust, waist, and hips before flaring out at or below the knee. This glamorous style celebrates curves and creates an hourglass shape. Modern fit-and-flare designs use stretch fabrics and strategic seaming for comfortable wear.

The fitted silhouette requires quality construction with adequate stretch. Look for dresses with at least 5% spandex content in fabrics like stretch crepe, jersey, or stretch lace. The flare should begin at a point where you feel comfortable and can move freely.

This style works best for hourglass and pear shapes. Consider your comfort level with a fitted silhouette, as these dresses show your body shape more than A-line or ball gown styles. Prices range from $1,000-$3,500.

Silhouette Comparison

Size-Inclusive Designers and Retailers

The bridal industry has made significant progress in size inclusivity. These retailers and designers offer extended size ranges with proper fit models and construction techniques designed for curvy bodies.

United States Retailers

Specialized Plus-Size Boutiques:

Brides by Young carries sample dresses in bridal sizes 16-36, with nearly 200 gowns available for immediate try-on⁴. This dedicated plus-size boutique provides expert fitting services and carries designers specifically creating patterns for curvy bodies.

Curve Bridal Collection (Jacksonville, FL) stocks over 200 sample dresses in sizes 14-32, with all designers offering sizes up to 36+⁵. Their inventory includes Stella York, Essense of Australia, and other major plus-size friendly brands.

Strut Bridal Salon offers plus size wedding dresses ranging from $699 to $3,800, with experienced consultants trained in plus-size fitting techniques⁶.

Major Retail Chains:

David's Bridal carries plus size wedding dresses to size 30 across most of their collection, with prices starting at $99 for clearance gowns and extending to $2,500 for premium designer pieces⁷. Their nationwide locations make in-person try-ons accessible for most US brides.

Designer Brands:

Madi Lane Bridal offers sizes 2-28 across their entire collection with no upcharge for extended sizes⁸. Their modern, romantic designs feature quality construction with proper support for fuller busts.

Maggie Sottero, Rebecca Ingram, and Sottero and Midgley collections extend to size 28, with consistent pricing across all sizes⁹.

Morilee's Julietta line specifically designs for sizes 16W through 32W, with patterns drafted on plus-size fit models to ensure proper proportions¹⁰.

United Kingdom Options

UK Retailers:

Perfection Bridal (multiple UK locations) specializes in sizes 14-28 with prices starting from £999, offering both ready-to-wear and made-to-order options¹¹.

Brides by Young UK carries samples in sizes 16-36, providing one of the largest plus-size selections in the country.

International Designers in UK:

Most major US designers distribute through UK boutiques. Expect to pay £1,200-£3,500 for designer gowns, with some boutiques offering payment plans.

Australian Retailers

Plus Size Perfection Bridal (Australia) offers dresses starting from $999 AUD in sizes 14-28, with off-the-rack options for immediate purchase¹².

One Honey Boutique (Australia) specializes in curve bridal gowns with extensive size ranges and custom ordering options.

The average Australian bride spends $2,502 AUD on her wedding dress, with plus-size options falling within the same range¹³.

Canada Retailers

Fantasy Bridal carries plus size wedding dresses in sizes 16-32 with boutiques across Canada.

Bridal retailers in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal typically stock samples in sizes 14-20, with all dresses available to order in extended sizes.

Size Range Comparison

Shopping Tips for Plus Size Brides

Strategic shopping ensures you find a dress that fits well, flatters your figure, and stays within budget. These evidence-based tips come from bridal consultants and thousands of plus-size bride experiences.

What to Look For

Structured Bodice:

A well-constructed bodice provides support without requiring uncomfortable shapewear. Look for dresses with:

• Boning in the bodice (typically 6-12 plastic or steel bones)
• Wide straps or cap sleeves that don't dig into shoulders
• Underarm coverage to prevent spillage
• Proper cup sizing or the ability to add cups

The bodice should feel secure when you raise your arms above your head. If the dress shifts or gaps, try a different size or style.

Quality Fabric:

Fabric quality matters more than embellishment. The best fabrics for plus-size dresses drape beautifully without clinging:

• Duchess satin (structured, holds shape)
• Mikado (slight texture, doesn't wrinkle)
• Stretch crepe (moves with your body)
• Structured tulle (creates volume without bulk)
• Chiffon (soft, flowing, lightweight)

Avoid extremely thin fabrics that show every line or heavy fabrics that add visual weight. Request fabric swatches to feel the quality before ordering.

Strategic Details:

Thoughtful design details draw the eye where you want it:

• V-necklines elongate the torso
• Three-quarter sleeves balance proportions
• Vertical lace appliqués create length
• Diagonal ruching defines the waist
• Strategic beading highlights the neckline and shoulders

Details should enhance the overall design rather than distract from it. Too many competing elements create visual clutter.

Defined Waist:

Most flattering plus-size dresses include waist definition through:

• Seaming at the natural waist
• Waist sashes or belts
• Color blocking
• Strategic ruching
• Fitted bodice transitioning to fuller skirt

The waist definition should occur at your natural waist (the narrowest part of your torso) rather than sitting too high or too low.

What to Avoid

Too-Tight Sizing:

Wedding dresses run 1-2 sizes smaller than street clothing. A bride who typically wears size 16 may need size 18-20 in bridal sizing. Order based on your measurements, not your usual size.

Dresses ordered too small require expensive alterations and may never fit properly. Most dresses can only be let out 1-2 inches maximum due to limited seam allowances¹⁴. When in doubt, size up.

Clingy Fabrics:

Extremely thin jersey, cheap satin, and unlined lace show every line and create unflattering silhouettes. Quality fabrics cost more but photograph better and provide necessary structure.

Lined dresses create smoother lines than unlined styles. Ask about lining during your appointment.

Horizontal Details:

Large horizontal stripes, tiered ruffles, and excessive horizontal embellishment can visually widen your silhouette. Vertical lines create length, while horizontal lines add width.

This doesn't mean avoiding all horizontal elements. A single horizontal sash at the waist or horizontal lace at the hem works beautifully. Avoid multiple strong horizontal lines across the widest part of your body.

Uncomfortable Styles:

Your wedding day lasts 8-12 hours. Choose a dress you can sit, dance, and eat in comfortably. If a style feels restrictive during your 20-minute fitting, it will feel worse after hours of wear.

Test your dress by:

• Sitting down fully
• Raising your arms overhead
• Taking several deep breaths
• Walking up stairs (if applicable to your venue)
• Bending slightly forward

Any discomfort during these tests will magnify throughout your wedding day.

Fitting Tips

Bring the Right Undergarments:

Purchase your wedding day undergarments before your first fitting. Bring:

• Strapless bra or bustier in nude (not white)
• Shapewear if you plan to wear it (properly sized, not too tight)
• Nude seamless underwear
• Shoes with the heel height you'll wear

Your alterations depend on these foundation pieces. Changing undergarments between fittings affects how the dress fits.

Schedule Enough Time:

Plus-size appointments often require extra time for:

• Trying multiple sizes of the same dress
• Testing different silhouettes
• Addressing fit concerns
• Discussing alteration options

Request a 90-minute appointment rather than the standard 60 minutes. Rushed appointments lead to poor decisions.

Bring Honest Supporters:

Limit your entourage to 2-3 people who will provide honest, constructive feedback. Avoid bringing anyone who:

• Makes comments about your body
• Projects their own style preferences
• Pressures you toward dresses outside your budget
• Creates drama or stress

Your appointment should feel exciting and supportive, not stressful. If a shop makes you uncomfortable, leave and find another boutique.

Alterations and Fitting

Nearly every wedding dress requires alterations. Understanding the process, costs, and timeline helps you budget appropriately and achieve the perfect fit.

Common Alterations

Hemming:

Hemming adjusts the dress length to work with your height and shoes. Simple hems on single-layer dresses cost $150-$250 USD, £80-£150 GBP, or $200-$350 AUD¹⁵. Multi-layer dresses with lace, beading, or horsehair braid cost $300-$500 USD, £150-£350 GBP, or $400-$700 AUD.

Bring your wedding shoes to all fittings. The hem should brush the floor at your toe, creating a slight break without dragging.

Taking In:

Most dresses require taking in through the bodice, waist, or hips to create a custom fit. Simple side seam adjustments cost $100-$200 USD, £60-£100 GBP, or $150-$300 AUD. Complex bodice restructuring involving boning, lining, and multiple seams costs $300-$500 USD, £150-£300 GBP, or $400-$700 AUD¹⁶.

Order your dress to fit your largest measurement, then have it taken in where needed. This approach costs less and provides better results than letting out a too-small dress.

Bustle:

A bustle lifts your train off the ground for the reception, preventing tears and making movement easier. Simple bustles with 2-3 attachment points cost $75-$150 USD, £50-£100 GBP, or $100-$200 AUD. Elaborate multi-point bustles for cathedral trains cost $250-$400 USD, £150-£250 GBP, or $350-$550 AUD¹⁷.

Practice bustling your dress before the wedding. Assign a bridesmaid or family member to handle it on the day.

Strap Adjustments:

Shortening, lengthening, or adding straps costs $50-$150 USD depending on complexity. Custom sleeves added to a strapless dress cost $150-$400 USD depending on fabric and design.

Neckline Changes:

Modest neckline modifications (raising a plunge, adding modesty panels) cost $75-$200 USD. Complex reshaping requires pattern alterations and costs $200-$500 USD.

Average Alteration Costs by Region

United States:

Most US brides pay $700-$1,000 total for wedding dress alterations in 2025, with the range spanning $300-$1,500 depending on dress complexity¹⁸. Budget $400-$800 for standard alterations including hem, bustle, and minor fit adjustments. Complex gowns with extensive beading, multiple layers, or major restructuring exceed $1,000.

Rush fees (alterations completed in under 6 weeks) add 25-50% to the base cost. Avoid rush fees by starting alterations 8-10 weeks before your wedding¹⁹.

United Kingdom:

UK alterations typically cost £250-£450 for standard modifications including hem, side adjustments, and bustle²⁰. The full range spans £100-£500 depending on dress construction. Simple alterations (hem and bustle only) cost £150-£250, while comprehensive fitting including bodice restructuring reaches £400-£500.

London and Southeast England prices run 10-20% higher than other UK regions.

Australia:

Australian brides budget $400-$800 AUD for wedding dress alterations, with complex modifications reaching $1,200 AUD²¹. Standard alterations (hem, bodice adjustments, bustle) fall in the $500-$700 AUD range.

Major cities (Sydney, Melbourne) charge premium rates compared to regional areas.

Canada:

Canadian alteration costs mirror US pricing in CAD, typically $500-$900 CAD for standard modifications.

Alteration Timeline

8-10 Weeks Before Wedding:

Schedule your first fitting once you've purchased (or received) your wedding day undergarments. The alterations specialist will:

• Pin the dress for length
• Mark areas requiring taking in
• Discuss bustle options
• Provide a cost estimate

This appointment takes 30-45 minutes. Leave the dress with the specialist for initial alterations.

4-6 Weeks Before Wedding:

Your second fitting evaluates the initial alterations and makes refinements. Bring all your accessories (veil, jewelry, shoes, undergarments) to see the complete look. Additional pinning addresses any remaining fit issues.

1-2 Weeks Before Wedding:

The final fitting confirms everything fits perfectly. Practice sitting, walking, and bustling your dress. Take photos in the dress to share with your getting-ready team.

Pick up your dress at this appointment or arrange delivery. Store it in a breathable garment bag away from direct sunlight.

Custom Sizing vs. Standard Sizing

Most designers offer custom sizing for $0-$200 additional fee. Custom sizing requires exact measurements:

• Bust (fullest part)
• Waist (natural waist, narrowest point)
• Hips (fullest part, typically 7-9 inches below waist)
• Hollow-to-hem (collarbone to floor in shoes)

Custom sizing takes 4-6 months compared to 3-4 months for standard sizing. The benefit: minimal alterations needed, typically only hemming and bustle.

Standard sizing requires more alterations but arrives faster and costs less upfront. Order standard sizing based on your largest measurement.

Average Plus Size Wedding Dress Costs

Wedding dress pricing has become more transparent and size-inclusive in recent years. Understanding typical costs helps you budget appropriately.

United States Pricing

The average cost of a wedding dress in the US reached $2,000 in 2025, with most brides spending $1,500-$2,500²². Plus size wedding dresses fall within the same range at size-inclusive retailers.

Budget tier ($500-$1,000): David's Bridal sale section, online retailers like Azazie, ASOS Bridal, and local consignment shops offer dresses under $1,000. Quality varies significantly in this range.

Mid-range ($1,000-$2,500): Most national brands and contemporary designers occupy this space. Expect quality fabrics, good construction, and extensive alteration options. This range offers the best value for most brides.

Luxury ($2,500-$5,000): Designer dresses from Maggie Sottero's premium lines, Essense of Australia Luxe collection, and boutique designers. Superior fabrics, intricate detailing, and exceptional construction justify higher prices.

Couture ($5,000+): Custom-designed dresses, imported European designers, and haute couture ateliers. These dresses represent the highest quality but exceed most budgets.

International Pricing

United Kingdom:

Average wedding dress cost: £1,500-£2,000²³ Budget: £500-£1,000 Mid-range: £1,000-£2,500 Luxury: £2,500-£4,000 Couture: £4,000+

Australia:

Average wedding dress cost: $2,502 AUD²⁴ Budget: $800-$1,500 Mid-range: $1,500-$3,500 Luxury: $3,500-$6,000 Couture: $6,000+

Canada:

Pricing mirrors US costs in CAD, with average dress costs around $2,200-$2,800 CAD.

Price Factors

Fabric Quality:

Natural silk costs 3-5 times more than polyester. Duchess satin, silk crepe, and silk charmeuse command premium prices. Quality synthetic fabrics (polyester mikado, synthetic tulle) provide excellent value at mid-range price points.

Embellishment:

Hand-beading, Swarovski crystals, and imported lace increase costs significantly. A dress with extensive beading costs $500-$2,000 more than the same silhouette in plain fabric.

Designer Prestige:

Established designer names carry higher price tags. Lesser-known designers producing similar quality cost 20-40% less.

Production Location:

Dresses manufactured in North America or Europe cost more than those produced in Asia. Production location doesn't always indicate quality; many high-quality dresses come from Asian manufacturers.

Size-Inclusive Pricing

Modern retailers increasingly maintain consistent pricing across all sizes. These brands recognize that charging more for extended sizes:

• Alienates customers
• Creates negative press
• Provides minimal profit increase (fabric represents 15-25% of dress cost)

Brands still charging premiums for plus sizes typically add:

• 10-15% for sizes 20-24
• 15-25% for sizes 26+

Avoid brands charging size premiums when equally beautiful dresses with size-inclusive pricing exist.

Body Positivity and Confidence

Your wedding dress should make you feel beautiful, confident, and authentically yourself. These principles guide positive dress shopping experiences.

All Bodies Are Beautiful

The wedding industry has historically promoted unrealistic beauty standards. Modern brides reject these narrow definitions of beauty and celebrate diverse bodies.

Your worth isn't determined by your dress size. The right dress fits your body as it is today, not the body you hope to have someday. Dieting for your wedding often leads to stress, disappointment, and dresses that don't fit properly.

Finding Your Style

Ignore "rules" about what plus-size brides should or shouldn't wear. If you love fitted dresses, wear a fitted dress. If you want sleeves, choose sleeves. Your comfort and happiness matter more than outdated guidelines.

Try on styles outside your comfort zone. Many brides discover their dream dress looks nothing like what they imagined. Remain open to possibilities.

Handling Unwanted Comments

Unfortunately, some people make inappropriate comments about brides' bodies. Prepare responses:

"I love this dress and feel beautiful in it." "This dress fits perfectly and makes me feel confident." "I'm not interested in discussing my body size."

You have no obligation to explain or defend your choices. Surround yourself with supportive people who celebrate you.

Working with Body-Positive Retailers

Seek boutiques that:

• Stock extended size samples (not just ordering catalogs)
• Display plus-size mannequins
• Train staff in inclusive language and fitting
• Feature plus-size models in marketing
• Avoid making body-related comments

These retailers understand plus-size fitting and create welcoming environments for all brides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wedding dress style is best for plus size?

A-line and ball gowns are universally flattering for plus size brides, defining the waist while flowing gracefully over hips. Empire waist dresses elongate the body and provide exceptional comfort. The best style depends on your body shape, personal preferences, and wedding formality. Structured bodices with quality fabrics that drape well create more flattering silhouettes than clingy materials regardless of style.

What size do wedding dresses go up to?

Most major wedding dress designers now offer sizes up to 28-32, with specialized plus-size retailers carrying sizes 14-36+. David's Bridal goes to size 30, Madi Lane offers sizes 2-28, and Curve Bridal Collection carries sizes 14-36+. Custom sizing is available from most designers for brides requiring larger sizes or specific proportions. The bridal industry has expanded size ranges significantly in recent years.

Are plus size wedding dresses more expensive?

Plus size wedding dresses typically cost the same as standard sizes at most retailers in 2025. The average price ranges from $1,500-$2,500 USD regardless of size. Some traditional designers charge 10-20% more for sizes above 18 due to additional fabric, but many modern brands maintain size-inclusive pricing across all sizes. Fabric represents only 15-25% of total dress cost, making size-based pricing increasingly outdated.

Where can I try on plus size wedding dresses in store?

Specialized plus-size bridal boutiques like Brides by Young (sizes 16-36), Curve Bridal Collection (sizes 14-36+), and Strut Bridal Salon carry extensive sample selections for immediate try-on. Major retailers like David's Bridal and Kleinfeld also stock plus size samples in most locations. Call ahead to confirm they have your size range in stock before visiting, as some boutiques only carry ordering catalogs rather than samples.

Should I size up or down when ordering a wedding dress?

Always order your true measurements rather than sizing up or down. Wedding dresses run 1-2 sizes smaller than street clothing, so you may need a larger bridal size than your usual clothing size. Most dresses have limited seam allowances allowing only 1-2 inches of letting out, so order based on your largest measurement and have the dress taken in where needed. When uncertain between sizes, order the larger size.

How much do alterations cost for plus size wedding dresses?

Wedding dress alterations typically cost $300-$1,000 USD regardless of size, with most brides paying $700-$1,000 for standard modifications including hem, bustle, and fit adjustments in 2025. In the UK, expect £250-£450, and in Australia $400-$800 AUD. Complex alterations involving extensive beading, multiple layers, or structural changes can exceed $1,000. Budget 20-30% of your dress cost for alterations and start the process 8-10 weeks before your wedding.

Can I order a custom-sized wedding dress?

Yes, most wedding dress designers offer custom sizing for no additional fee or a nominal charge of $50-$200. Provide your exact bust, waist, hip, and hollow-to-hem measurements for custom sizing. Custom sizing takes 4-6 months compared to 3-4 months for standard sizes. This option minimizes alterations (typically only hemming and bustle needed) and ensures the best fit for brides with proportions that don't match standard sizing.

What undergarments work best under plus size wedding dresses?

Invest in a high-quality strapless longline bra or corset-style bustier with silicone grip strips to prevent slipping. Seamless shapewear like Spanx or Skims in nude tones (not white) works under most gowns without creating visible lines. Bring these undergarments to all fittings as they affect how the dress fits. Avoid shapewear that's too tight, which creates bulges rather than smooth lines. Your alterations specialist can recommend specific styles for your dress design.

How far in advance should I order my plus size wedding dress?

Order your plus size wedding dress 8-10 months before your wedding date to allow 4-6 months for production plus 2-3 months for alterations. If ordering custom sizing, add an extra month to this timeline. Rush orders are available but cost 25-50% more and may limit your style options. Starting early provides the best selection and eliminates rush fees on both ordering and alterations.

Do plus size wedding dresses take longer to arrive?

No, plus size wedding dresses typically arrive within the same 4-6 month timeframe as standard sizes. Production time depends on the designer, style complexity, and production schedule rather than the size ordered. However, if you're ordering custom measurements or requesting specific modifications, add 2-4 weeks to the standard timeline. Always confirm expected delivery times when ordering and add buffer time for potential delays.

Sources and References