Plus Size Formal Wedding Gowns

Shop Sydney’s Closet for our extensive collection of stunning plus-size formal wedding dresses and bridal gowns designed exclusively to fit and flatter curvy brides sizes 14 to 40 . Fall in love with elegant styles that are picture-perfect if... Read More

Shop Sydney’s Closet for our extensive collection of stunning plus-size formal wedding dresses and bridal gowns designed exclusively to fit and flatter curvy brides sizes 14 to 40 . Fall in love with elegant styles that are picture-perfect if you’re a bride planning a fancy, formal wedding.  

What makes plus-size wedding dresses and bridal gowns formal?

Bridal designer Phyllis Brasch Librach, creator of the curvy plus Sydney’s Closet and Michelle Bridal Collections, says length, fabric and embellishments distinguish a formal wedding gown from an informal wedding dress. 

What length is a formal plus size bridal gown?

A formal plus-size wedding gown will always be nothing short of a floor-length style with a train that extends from the back of the skirt. The length of the train can vary.  A  sweep train that barely brushes the floor gives you the shortest, and least formal, option.  A court train extends about 12 inches for a basic and chic train.  A fancier and traditional option is a dress with a chapel train that extends about three feet. For the ultimate drama be the bride who goes down the aisle in an elaborate Cathedral style that stretches about six feet long from the hemline.

What fabrics are best for formal wedding dresses plus size?

Formal wedding dresses in plus size earn their elegant look by being designed in rich, luxurious fabrics. Phyllis Brasch Librach, who designs bridal gowns exclusively for curvy brides, elevates formal bridal gowns by working in a  variety of fancy fabrics. Among her favorite fabrics: smooth satin, polished taffeta soft tulle net, wispy organza, smooth silks, and delicate romantic lace. 

What details make curvy plus formal wedding dresses look fancy? 

A formal wedding dress plus size stands out with unique design details that delight and even surprise. Intricate beading, ornate rhinestones and sparkling sequins add a touch of glamor to any wedding day look. Embroidery, especially in different or contrasting colors, can magically make an ordinary dress look whimsical or enchanting. Embellishments like bows and ribbons bring romantic touches that instantly dress up any style wedding dress. For a very updated look, designer Phyllis Brasch Librach loves to layer 3D floral appliques on a design. 

What styles are best for plus-size formal wedding gowns?

Great news for curvy brides. You can find almost any style of formal wedding dress in plus size silhouettes.  An A-line  wedding dress is one of the most popular for plus size brides because it flatters almost every body type. Brides with hourglass figures favor a fitted Mermaid, Trumpet or sheath to show off their well-proportined curves.  The voluminous ball gown wedding dress makes an ideal choice for a plus-size formal bridal gown because it’s the fullest, fanciest skirt.

Remember, as you shop, that there is never a wrong style of formal wedding dress to wear on your special day. The best dress is the one that puts the biggest smile on your face and  showcases your personality and unique fashion style. 

Can a bride wear a formal curvy plus gown for her casual wedding?

Traditionally, brides wore formal wedding dresses and bridal gowns when the ceremony and reception took place in elegant venues like churches, country clubs and mansions.  The invitation, almost always, read Black-Tie attire. Today, times have changed. So have wedding attire traditions.  Designer PBL says brides should select the wedding day attire that best reflects her unique personality and fashion style. 

So go ahead with an elaborate  formal plus-size gown if that is the dream dress that makes you the happiest on your wedding day.  The style works wherever you tie the knot even if it’s a more informal setting like a winery, barn, backyard, beach or wooded forest. You’ll be a beautiful bride in a fancy dress even if the venue for the ceremony and reception represents a more relaxed one. Plus, you’ll look sensational in the photos and earn tons of compliments from your partner and guests!

Maybe your wedding day vision is less formal. Then shop our super selection of casual plus size wedding dresses perfect for intimate, destination and informal weddings.