Every woman deserves to feel spectacular at formal events, regardless of size. Yet for too long, plus-size women have been underserved by the formal fashion industry, offered limited choices often lacking in style and quality. The good news? This is changing, and there are more beautiful options than ever for curvy women to shine.
This guide is dedicated to helping plus-size women navigate formal fashion with confidence, offering practical advice on flattering styles, shopping strategies, and the mindset shifts that transform how you approach dressing for special occasions.
Challenging Outdated Thinking
Before discussing styles and strategies, let's address some pervasive myths about plus-size dressing:
Myth: You Should Hide Your Body
Reality: The goal isn't to hide or minimise—it's to present yourself in a way that makes you feel confident. Some plus-size women love form-fitting dresses; others prefer relaxed silhouettes. Both are valid choices.
Myth: Certain Styles Are "Off-Limits"
Reality: There are no rules about what plus-size women can't wear. If you love it and it fits well, wear it. Confidence is the most flattering thing you can put on.
Myth: Black Is Most Slimming
Reality: While black is universally elegant, colour isn't the enemy. Rich jewel tones, bold prints, and even white can be incredibly flattering when the cut and fit are right.
Key Mindset
The goal of dressing well isn't to look smaller—it's to look like your best self. Embrace styles that bring you joy rather than trying to disappear.
Understanding What Works
While personal preference should always guide your choices, certain design elements tend to be universally flattering for curvier figures:
Silhouettes That Flatter
A-Line: Perhaps the most universally flattering silhouette, A-line dresses skim over the hips and thighs while defining the waist. They work for virtually every body shape and are comfortable for all-day wear.
Wrap Dresses: The adjustable nature of wrap styles means they can be customised to your exact proportions. The diagonal lines across the body are inherently flattering, and the defined waist creates beautiful curves.
Empire Waist: Sitting just below the bust and flowing loosely from there, empire waist dresses are comfortable and elegant. They're particularly flattering if you carry weight in your midsection.
Fit-and-Flare: Similar to A-line but with a more defined waist, fit-and-flare dresses celebrate curves while allowing movement and comfort in the skirt.
Necklines That Work
- V-Neck: Creates a lengthening effect and is flattering for larger busts
- Sweetheart: Feminine and supportive, highlighting the décolletage
- Square: Modern and flattering, works well with statement necklaces
- Scoop: Softly flattering without being too revealing
If you have a larger bust, look for dresses with built-in support or structure. Many formal dresses now include boning, cups, or reinforced bodices that provide support without requiring a separate bra.
The Importance of Fit
This cannot be overstated: fit is everything. A well-fitted dress in any size looks infinitely better than an ill-fitted expensive designer piece.
Signs of Good Fit
- Seams sit where they're designed to (shoulder seams at shoulders, waist at natural waist)
- Nothing pulls, strains, or gapes
- You can move comfortably—sit, walk, raise your arms
- The fabric lies smoothly without creating unwanted lines or lumps
- You feel confident and comfortable
Common Fit Issues and Solutions
Bust too tight, waist fits: Size up and have the waist taken in, or look for styles with forgiving waistlines.
Waist fits, hips tight: A-line styles are your friend; they naturally accommodate different hip sizes.
Length issues: Always factor in hemming costs; most dresses assume a taller height.
Armholes too tight: A common problem in plus sizes; look for sleeveless or flutter sleeve styles, or have armholes altered.
Budget for alterations. Very few dresses fit perfectly off the rack, regardless of size. A skilled seamstress can transform a good dress into a perfect one. Allow 2-3 weeks before your event for alterations.
Shopping Strategies
Where to Shop
The plus-size formal market has expanded significantly. Options include:
- Dedicated plus-size retailers: Often offer the best selection and fit expertise
- Mainstream retailers with extended sizes: More brands now offer sizes up to AU 26+
- Online specialists: Wider selection, often with detailed sizing guides
- Department stores: Good for trying multiple brands in one location
- Dress hire services: Many now stock extended sizes; great for one-time occasions
Shopping Tips
- Know your measurements: Not just dress size—bust, waist, hips, and height
- Read size guides: Sizing varies significantly between brands
- Check return policies: Essential when buying online
- Read reviews: Other plus-size shoppers often share sizing insights
- Don't shop by size number: Focus on fit, not the tag
Supportive Undergarments
The right foundation garments can dramatically improve how a dress looks and feels:
Essential Pieces
- Supportive bras: Invest in properly fitted bras for different necklines (strapless, plunge, convertible)
- Shapewear: Optional, but can smooth lines if desired. Choose based on comfort—you'll be wearing it for hours
- Slip: Prevents dresses from clinging and adds a smooth layer
- Dress tape: Keeps necklines in place and prevents unwanted reveals
Shapewear Considerations
Shapewear is a personal choice, not a requirement. If you choose to wear it:
- Try it with your dress before the event
- Ensure you can sit, breathe, and move comfortably
- Choose the right level—too restrictive leads to discomfort
- Consider shapewear with comfortable bands that don't roll
Styling Confidence
Colour and Print
Don't limit yourself to dark colours:
- Jewel tones: Emerald, sapphire, ruby—rich and universally flattering
- Bold colours: If you love red, wear red. Confidence makes any colour work
- Prints: Medium-scale prints often work best; very small prints can look busy, very large can overwhelm
- Metallics: Gold and silver can be stunning on curves
Accessories
- Statement jewellery draws the eye and adds personality
- A gorgeous clutch elevates any outfit
- Beautiful shoes matter—comfort and style aren't mutually exclusive
- A stunning hairstyle frames your face and completes your look
Confidence: The Best Accessory
Ultimately, how you carry yourself matters more than what you wear. Here's how to cultivate event-day confidence:
- Practice: Wear your outfit around the house beforehand
- Prepare: Have hair, makeup, and accessories planned in advance
- Pamper: Take time for self-care before the event
- Perspective: Remember that most people are focused on themselves, not scrutinising you
- Posture: Stand tall—it instantly improves how any outfit looks
Final Thoughts
You deserve to feel beautiful at every special occasion. The fashion industry has work to do in serving plus-size women better, but in the meantime, don't let limited options diminish your joy in getting dressed up.
The perfect dress for you is one that makes you feel like the best version of yourself—confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy whatever celebration awaits. Don't settle for "good enough" when you deserve to feel extraordinary.
Your body is worthy of beautiful clothes. Full stop.