As a stylist specialising in plus-size fashion, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find the perfect plus-size wedding guest outfit. But worry not, I’m here to guide you through the process and ensure you feel confident and fabulous on the big day. Let's explore some stylish outfit ideas to help you shine.
Understanding Wedding Dress Codes
Interpreting the dress code is the first step to choosing the right wedding guest outfit. Here are some common dress codes and how you can nail them:
- Formal: Think long dresses, sophisticated silhouettes, and elegant fabrics. A floor-length navy gown with lace details can be a perfect choice. Alternatively, a black off-the-shoulder mermaid dress with sequins is a great option for a formal evening wedding.
- Semi-Formal: A bit more relaxed, but still chic. Consider a knee-length chiffon dress in a pastel shade, paired with elegant heels. Another option is a wrap dress with ruffle details in a soft colour like blush or lavender.
- Casual: For laid-back weddings, a cute dress or a chic skirt and top combo is ideal. A floral midi dress with comfortable sandals works great. Or try a casual maxi dress with a fun print paired with flat sandals.
Seasonal Wedding Guest Outfits Suggestions
Spring Wedding
Spring weddings call for light, floral, and fresh looks. Consider wearing a plus-size yellow maxi dress such as the Riviere dress, and mix it with delicate jewellery and a light shawl. Another great option is a pastel pink knee-length dress with lace details, paired with nude heels. For a more casual spring wedding, a floral wrap dress with wedges is a lovely choice. These outfits embrace the essence of spring while ensuring you feel comfortable and stylish.
Summer Wedding
Summer weddings can be hot, so breathable fabrics are key. Opt for a bright, cheerful colour like coral. A sleeveless A-line summer dress with a flowy skirt can keep you cool and stylish. Pair it with strappy sandals and a wide-brimmed hat. Another option is an elegant black-and-white halter-neck maxi dress with wedge sandals, such as the Embody Women’s Coco Halter Maxi Dress, featuring a twist tie bust/neckline with a multiway tie to style in different ways. For a beach wedding, a flowy chiffon dress in turquoise with flat sandals works wonderfully.
Autumn Wedding
Autumn is all about rich colours and layering. Think deep reds, burnt oranges, and layers. Try a burgundy wrap dress with three-quarter sleeves, paired with a statement necklace and ankle boots. Another option is an emerald green maxi dress with functional buttons and a tie bust, paired with heeled ankle boots, such as the Angelika Dress. This dress has a two-way tie bust design so you can cover up or create a deeper V neckline with a bow at the front. For a more casual look, a mustard yellow dress with a denim jacket and ankle boots is perfect for autumn.
Winter Wedding
Stay warm and stylish with heavier fabrics and elegant layers. A long-sleeved emerald green dress with a faux fur stole and heeled boots will ensure you stay cosy and chic. Another option is a velvet wrap dress in deep blue with a statement necklace and black tights. For an outdoor winter wedding, a midi dress in a rich colour like plum, paired with a stylish coat and heeled boots, is a great choice.
Venue-Specific Wedding Guest Outfit Suggestions
Beach Wedding
For a beach wedding, go for something flowy and lightweight. A light blue maxi dress with a ruffled neckline and sandals is perfect. Add a wide-brimmed hat to complete the look. Another option is a white and blue striped sundress with espadrilles and a sunhat. For a more elegant beach wedding, try a coral wrap dress with flat sandals and delicate jewellery.
Garden Wedding:
Garden weddings are perfect for nature-inspired prints and comfortable fits. A floral wrap dress with flutter sleeves, paired with wedge sandals, makes for a great choice. Another option is a knee-length dress with a botanical print, paired with nude heels and a clutch. For a more casual garden wedding, a maxi dress with a floral print and flat sandals is ideal.
Formal Wedding:
For a formal wedding, opt for something elegant and sophisticated. A black off-the-shoulder gown with a statement clutch and sparkling earrings will ensure you make a stylish statement. Another option is a navy blue evening gown with flounce frills and silver accessories. For a black-tie wedding, a floor-length sequin dress in a deep colour like emerald or ruby paired with classic heels is perfect.
Accessorising Your Outfit
Accessories can make or break your outfit. Here are some tips:
- Shoes: Choose comfortable yet stylish shoes. Wedges or block heels are great for outdoor weddings. For formal weddings, opt for classic pumps or strappy heels.
- Jewellery: Keep it elegant and not too overpowering. Simple earrings and a bracelet can complement your look. For a touch of glamour, add a statement necklace.
- Bags: A small clutch or a stylish handbag will complete your outfit. Choose a colour that compliments your dress and shoes.
Common Mix and Match Mistakes
When mixing and matching, there are a few pitfalls to avoid to ensure your outfit looks polished and cohesive:
- Clashing Patterns: While mixing patterns can be stylish, clashing patterns can make an outfit look busy and uncoordinated. Stick to complementary patterns, like a floral skirt with a solid-colour top.
- Mismatched Formality Levels: Ensure that all pieces of your outfit are appropriate for the event’s dress code. Pairing a casual top with a formal skirt can look out of place.
- Over-accessorising: While accessories add flair, too many can overwhelm your outfit. Choose a few key pieces that enhance your look without overshadowing it.
- Ignoring Fit: The fit of each piece matters. Ensure that each item fits well and flatters your shape. An ill-fitting top can throw off the entire outfit.
FAQs
1. What colours are appropriate for a wedding guest outfit?
Stick to non-white shades unless specified. Pastels, jewel tones, and floral prints are usually safe bets. Avoid wearing the same colour as the bridal party if you know it.
2. How can I ensure my outfit is both comfortable and stylish?
Choose breathable fabrics and a fit that allows you to move freely. Comfort is key to confidence. Look for dresses with some stretch or adjustable elements like wrap dresses.
3. Are there specific fabrics I should look for or avoid?
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are breathable and comfortable. Avoid heavy fabrics for summer weddings. For winter weddings, velvet and heavier knit fabrics are great options.
4. Can I wear jeans to a wedding?
For casual weddings, yes. Opt for stylish, well-fitted jeans paired with a dressy top. Make sure the overall look is polished and appropriate for the venue.
5. What dress is most flattering for a plus size?
The most flattering dress for a plus-size figure often depends on personal preference and body shape, but generally, wrap dresses, A-line dresses, and fit-and-flare dresses are considered very flattering. Wrap dresses cinch at the waist and create a beautiful silhouette, A-line dresses gently flare out from the waist, balancing the proportions, and fit-and-flare dresses highlight the waist and flow over the hips and thighs, creating an elegant and balanced look. Look for dresses with some stretch in the fabric for added comfort and fit.
Finding the perfect wedding guest outfit as a plus-size woman doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right guidance and outfit ideas, you can look fabulous and feel confident at any wedding. As the stylist working with Embody Women, the amazing size-inclusive women's designer brand in Australia, I have helped countless plus-size customers dress up for weddings and other special events and seen how the right outfit can transform not just their look, but their confidence too. Whether it's a beach wedding or a formal event, our pieces are designed to make you look and feel amazing. Embrace these tips, explore our collections, and enjoy the joy of looking and feeling your best. And if you need stylish options for other events, don't forget to check out Embody's collection of plus size going out outfits for more fabulous fashion ideas.
About the author: Bridget Bell is a Celebrity and Personal Stylist based in Melbourne, Australia. She has been working as a stylist since 2006, her main focus is on mid-size and plus-size fashion. https://styleambition.com.au/