20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (2024)

  • Wedding Dresses

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Rachel Varina

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (1)

Rachel Varina

Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured inCosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.

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Updated on 04/25/23 01:28PM

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20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (2)

Whether you're after a glam wedding gown or something more understated, choosing the perfect bridal look is one of the biggest day-of decisions a bride-to-be can make. While some to-be-weds prefer a more traditional aesthetic, others want something a little more playful and contemporary. That's why more and more brides are opting for frocks with shorter hemlines that feel youthful and modern, yet still completely wedding-worthy. And if you're on the hunt for plus-size short wedding dresses, you've come to the right place!

While shopping for a plus-size wedding dress might feel daunting, the good news is that there are now plenty of options for any budget, style, and season. If you're looking for a shorter dress—whether it's for your ceremony, reception, or both—you have an even broader range to choose from, as most white co*cktail or midi dresses can double as a wedding gown.

To help narrow down your options, we've researched and rounded up the best short wedding dresses. We considered the style, size range, cost, materials, and overall quality of each design—from embellished midi dresses to sleek and modern minis.

Whether you're after a bold party look or a classically romantic design, read on for the best plus-size short wedding dresses for every style and season.

17 Stunning Plus-Size Wedding Dresses for Every Style and Budget

Best With Cape

Bridal by ELOQUII Mini Dress With Puff Sleeve Cape

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (3)

Size: 14-28 | Materials: Crepe, organza | Length: Mini

A little bit sexy and a little bit decorous, Bridal by Eloquii marries the two aesthetics in one magnificent mini dress. While the crepe dress draws the eyes in, it's the removable organza cape and sleeves that conveniently add coverage and make this special bridal look one to remember.

Price at time of publish: $159

Understated Favorite

DB Studio Chiffon Flutter Sleeve Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (4)

Size: 16W-30W | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Midi-length

From backyard weddings to courthouse elopements and casual celebrations, this DB Studio mini is modern and refined with an empire waist, flutter sleeves, and an open keyhole back. We especially love how versatile this chiffon design is, so much so that it can easily be incorporated into your wardrobe after the big day.

Price at time of publish: $140

For Gold Lovers

Lulus Light Up the Night Champagne Sequin Shift Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (5)

Size: XS-3X | Materials: Polyester, sequin | Length: Mini

You're already putting your own spin on tradition with a short wedding dress, so go another step further by skipping the white style and opting for something with a little more shine. Covered in champagne-hued sequins, this shift mini from Lulus wows beyond the fabric with a V-neckline and flattering short sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $67

Best Lace

DB Studio Allover Lace Flounce Hem Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (6)

Size: 16W-26W | Materials: Polyester, lace | Length: Knee-length

A twist on your typical lace wedding gown, this DB Studio original gives the traditional material a bit of sass with a fun flounce design. When you pair the modern high neckline and form-grazing silhouette with the classic all-over lace detailing, you'll quickly see why this style is beloved for all bridal occasions.

Price at time of publish: $180

Most Glamorous

ASOS Luxe Wedding Curve Embellished Mini Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (7)

Size: 12-26 | Materials: Sequin, faux feather | Length: Mini, train

Just because your hemline is shorter, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on the glitz and glam. This celebration-worthy dress from ASOS Luxe features it all, from shimmering sequins to a faux feather trim and a floor-length train that'll make you scream, "I do."

Price at time of publish: $126

For a Spring Wedding

Reformation Juliette Dress ES

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (8)

Size: 14-24 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Midi-length

Whether it's a bridal shower, a rehearsal, a garden party, or a backyard wedding, Reformation's Juliette dress is a favorite for spring brides. The fitted bodice gives way to a relaxed-fitting skirt that balances the look with an alluring thigh-high side slit. Bonus: Select from multiple floral print options to best suit your day-of vision.

Price at time of publish: $248

Best Beading

Adrianna Papell Plus Size Art Deco co*cktail Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (9)

Size: 14-26 | Materials: Polyester, sequin | Length: Mini

Giving major Gatsby vibes, this art deco dress from Adrianna Papell will make you feel like the star you are. Between the flattering halter neckline, blouson bodice, and sheath silhouette—not to mention rows of glittering sequins—this design is sure to dazzle all night long.

Price at time of publish: $147

For the Romantic Bride

ASOS Design Curve Blouson Midi Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (10)

Size: 12-26 | Material: Woven polyester, bead, sequin | Length: Midi-length

From the flutter sleeves to the floral embellishments, this dreamy ASOS design exudes true romance. The kick slit and curve-skimming silhouette add subtle sexiness, while the sequin detailing gives your shorter style an extra touch of shimmer.

Price at time of publish: $162

Contemporary Favorite

Revelry Millie Mini Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (11)

Size: 0-32 | Materials: Crepe | Length: Mini

Measuring 27 inches from neckline to hem, the Millie dress from Revelry is a favorite for modern brides who want a look that's current, modest, and adaptable. The sweet mini features a scoop neckline, fitted waist, and built-in cups for support, plus the bows on the straps are detachable, giving you two looks in one!

Price at time of publish: $165

Best High-Low

DB Studio Mikado High-Low Wedding Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (12)

Size: 16W-30W | Materials: Polyester, mikado | Length: High-low

Effortlessly elegant, this DB Studio dress is simple yet sublime with a structured, strapless bodice and a high-low skirt that falls from the waist (plus side pockets for holding the essentials). Pair the design with a sparkling belt and statement heels to really elevate your look.

Price at time of publish: $100

13 High-Low Wedding Dresses We Love

Most Sophisticated

Tadashi Shoji Sabine Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (13)

Size: 1X-4X | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini

We love a suit-inspired look for sophisticated brides, and Tadashi Shoji's Sabine dress does it all with a twist bodice detail and plunging neckline. Perfect for a rehearsal dinner, ceremony, or reception, pair the look with classic accessories to tie the entire ensemble together.

Price at time of publish: $425

Satin Favorite

Show Me Your Mumu Samantha Ruffle Wrap Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (14)

Size: XXS-3X | Materials: Satin | Length: High-low

Coming in 13 different hues, the Samantha dress from Show Me Your Mumu is an unexpected take on your standard satin frock. Flirty ruffle straps and a high-low hem nod to the contemporary, while the mock wrap design and bra-friendly cut make the gown sensible in a way other satin gowns could only dream of.

Price at time of publish: $168

17 Satin Wedding Dresses for a Classic Bridal Look

Best Strapless

Azazie Gelsey Wedding Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (15)

Size: 0-30, custom sizing | Materials: Tulle, mikado| Length: Knee-length

Made from luscious tulle and silky mikado, this strapless number from Azazie is truly hard to top. The combination of a sweetheart neckline, fit-and-flare silhouette, and floaty tulle skirt make this dress an easy choice for any bride. Add some accessories to showcase your personal style and play up the design's effortless grace.

Price at time of publish: $279

Chicest

Revelry Steph Mini Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (16)

Size: 0-32 | Materials: Crepe | Length: Mini

Say hello to the chicest short wedding dress of the year! Revelry's Steph mini—made from luxurious semi-stretch crepe—checks off all the style boxes with a square neckline, body-skimming silhouette, and an open back. Don't forget the oversized bow that gives a train-like appearance that's both simple and stunning.

Price at time of publish: $215

For the Feminine Bride

Revelry Maeve Mini Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (17)

Size: 0-32 | Materials: Tulle | Length: Mini

Delicate Swiss dot tulle, a square neckline, and a sweet, twirly skirt—Revelry's Maeve was clearly made for brides who want to lean into their girly side. The double lining and built-in cups offer plenty of support, while the sheer puff sleeves can be worn up or off-the-shoulder depending on your style preference.

Price at time of publish: $120

For a Winter Wedding

Azazie Opal Wedding Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (18)

Size: 0-30, custom sizing | Materials: Crepe| Length: Knee-length

Long sleeves and winter weddings go hand-in-hand, but there's more to love about Azazie's Opal dress than just its bewitching balloon sleeves. A modern square neckline and a row of back buttons touch upon traditional bridal gown elements that, when paired with seasonal staples like a faux fur shrug, create a captivating cold-weather look.

Price at time of publish: $269

The 16 Best Winter Wedding Dresses of 2023

For a Fall Wedding

Revelry Skye Midi Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (19)

Size: 0-32 | Materials: Velvet | Length: Midi

Slip dresses might seem more like a springtime vibe, but Revelry changes the game with the Skye midi in velvet. The high-stretch fabric hugs in all the right places, while its medium weight keeps you secure and cozy through autumn evenings. Throw on a personalized jacket for added coverage and style.

Price at time of publish: $189

For the Classic Bride

Sachin & Babi Archie V-Neck Back-Bow Mini Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (20)

Size: 0-26W | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini

Classic brides will love this romantic pick, which gives off major Audrey Hepburn vibes. We love how the oversized bow adds an ultra-feminine flair, while the structured V-neckline keeps things simple and sleek. Pair this with pearl accessories and your favorite pair of pumps.

Price at time of publish: $395

For the Princess Bride

Azazie Dolores Gown

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (21)

Size: 0-30 | Materials: Satin | Length: Tea-length, tulle

You don't have to forgo your princess dreams just because you're opting for a shorter dress. With gorgeous beads and sequins, plus a tea-length tulle skirt and embellishment-covered illusion bodice, this gown feels utterly royal, even without a floor-length hem.

Price at time of publish: $349

For the Casual Bride

Torrid Mini Challis Eyelet Dress

20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (22)

Size: 10-30 | Materials: Challis woven fabric | Length: Knee-length

For intimate backyard ceremonies and casual courthouse weddings, we love this simple yet elegant pick from Torrid. The bell sleeves add a fun and feminine touch, while the subtle cut-out pattern adds a dynamic element. Pair this beauty with an up-do and strappy sandals to complete the look.

Price at time of publish: $90

22 Stunning Summer Wedding Dresses for Every Style and Budget

What to Look For in a Plus-Size Short Wedding Dress

Style and silhouette

No matter your size or the length of your gown, the most important consideration in a wedding dress is finding a style that makes you feel confident. Many plus-size brides gravitate toward universally flattering silhouettes like sheath, mermaid, and A-line, but that doesn't mean you're limited to just those styles. Don't be afraid to try on other cuts, as you never know what will speak to you!

Design and details

As far as design elements, V-necklines are known for their elongating quality, while off-the-shoulder necklines and halters draw the eyes up and compliment your arms/torso. Fabric-wise, you'll want to consider the season and formality of your event. Luxe materials like velvet and sequins are a favorite for fall and winter weddings, while chiffon and even cotton work well for warmer celebrations. In general, though, fabrics like satin, crepe, and chiffon are popular for all seasons. We especially love the Azazie Dolores Dress and the Show Me Your Mumu Samantha Ruffle Wrap Dress.

Budget

Lastly, don't forget your budget. While shorter wedding dresses are typically less expensive than longer gowns, the designer, embellishments, and details will play a role in the final price tag, as will the number of alterations needed and accessories you incorporate.

FAQ

  • Can I wear a short dress to my wedding?

    Absolutely! There's no rule that says you must wear a long gown to your celebration (unless, of course, that's what your venue/house of worship requires). While a short dress might make more sense for a casual wedding versus a formal one, it's your day! If you're torn between gown lengths, consider wearing a long wedding dress for your ceremony and slipping into something shorter and more dance-friendly for the reception.

  • How do I accessorize a short wedding dress?

    What's really great about short wedding dresses is they often give you more opportunities to showcase your style via accessories. Depending on your sleeve length and neckline, consider a statement neckline or earrings, and don't forget the fun wedding shoes! Since your kicks are able to be seen, choose some bridal sneakers or wedding heels that show off your personal style.

  • Where can I find a plus-size short wedding dress?

    Since most short white dresses can double as wedding dresses, you have a lot of options. Some of our favorite places to find plus-size short wedding dresses include Revelry, David's Bridal, BHLDN, Eloquii, and ASOS.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing Expert Writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and seven years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.

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20 Best Plus-Size Short Wedding Dresses for Every Season and Style (2024)

FAQs

What style of wedding dress is most flattering for plus size? ›

What are the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for plus-size brides? Some of the most flattering wedding dress silhouettes for plus-size brides are A-line, mermaid, ball gown, and sheath gown. That said, brides should always feel empowered to experiment with all different types of silhouettes.

What wedding dress is timeless? ›

Silk and satin have been used for centuries as wedding dress material and are never out of style. When it comes to timeless wedding dresses, long sleeves are a trademark. For fall and winter celebrations, dresses with sleeves produce an elegant and refined look.

Why wear a short wedding dress? ›

It can be more practical

it can be simply more practical to walk down the aisle in a short length gown. Many brides don't want to feel constrained by a fitted trumpet gown or cathedral trail. Others are simply in love with how flattering and complimentary a short dress is on their body type.

What should a curvy body wear to a wedding? ›

Curvy/plus size

Similarly, an A-line dress will add balance to those with a wider frame. A halter neck or scoop neckline will add definition and shape to your shoulders whilst flattering and enhancing the bust, and also pulling in the upper half of the bodice to define the waist.

How to look classy as a plus size woman? ›

10 Plus-Size Fashion Tips with a Body-Positive Attitude
  1. Give your body, psyche and wardrobe a boost.
  2. Dress to elongate your body.
  3. Show off your shape.
  4. Define your waist.
  5. Or wear dresses and tunics that flow.
  6. Work with your personal proportions.
  7. Opt for relaxed pieces.
  8. Add jackets and cardigans.
Sep 15, 2022

How to dress stylish when overweight? ›

10 Simple Style Tips To Dress Sexier When Overweight
  1. Wear simple clothes. If you want to look sexy instantly, don't overcomplicate things. ...
  2. Choose the right fit. ...
  3. Wear bright colors. ...
  4. Avoid trendy clothing. ...
  5. Show off your legs. ...
  6. Wear sexy shoes. ...
  7. Pick one fantastic accessory. ...
  8. Add layers to your outfits.

Who makes the prettiest wedding dresses? ›

The Best Wedding Dress Designers
  1. GAÂLA. ...
  2. Valentine Avoh. ...
  3. Christos Costarellos. ...
  4. Monique Lhuillier. ...
  5. Claire Pettibone. ...
  6. Odylyne The Ceremony. ...
  7. Pnina Tornei. ...
  8. Halfpenny London.
Jul 3, 2023

What type of wedding dress is most popular? ›

The A-line style is the most popular of wedding dresses as it tends to fit and flatter many different figure shapes. This design will look great whether you have an hourglass or pear shape. Aline refers to the ultimate form of the skirt. And as it says, it's shaped like the letter A.

What color wedding dress is most common? ›

What are the Most Popular Wedding Dress Colors? The most popular wedding dress colors are shades of off-white and ivory, which are more universally flattering. However, we've also noticed that many brides opt for a gown with a lining in a shade of blush or nude to allow the details on their dresses to pop!

How can I hide my belly pooch in my wedding dress? ›

Wear Control Top Tights and Other Shapewear Pieces

Start by wearing a pair of high-quality control top tights to tuck and smoothen your midsection, lift your buttocks, and slim down your hips and thighs. Then put on cami shapewear or a bodysuit for additional tummy-tucking support.

How do you look good in wedding photos plus size? ›

Flattering Angles and Poses for Plus-Size Bride Photographs
  1. Turn the subject's body away from the light source. ...
  2. Have the subject lean slightly toward the camera with their chest. ...
  3. Change your camera angle—a higher camera angle will minimize double chins. ...
  4. Bend a knee. ...
  5. Have the subject sit on the side of the thigh.
Sep 25, 2014

What color dress looks best on plus size? ›

Darker shades of colors like blue, purple and brown can also help to hide flaws and create a slimming illusion. On the other hand, lighter colors, like white and khaki, can add pounds and give the illusion of a larger frame. Don't wear a white blouse if you want to camouflage a large chest.

What is the best wedding dress style for plus size hourglass figure? ›

Fit-and-flare and mermaid wedding dresses are sure to look stunning. Gowns with plunging V-necklines, wrap dresses, and strapless gowns are also fabulous choices for hourglass figures.

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