Every bride deserves to feel stunning on their wedding day. However, much of the wedding industry is behind the times when it comes to body positivity and inclusivity. As a result, many plus-size brides find the process of shopping for the perfect dress to be limiting and discouraging.
Where do you start looking for designs that suit your style, enhance your figure, and make you feel completely confident? Thankfully, many big names in the bridal industry have made strides in offering gorgeous gowns tailored to full-figured women.
If you're a plus-size bride searching for a dress that celebrates and flatters your curves, you've come to the right place. Below, we've rounded up eight of the top plus-size wedding dress designers you need to know about. These brands are leading the way in crafting stunning gowns that prioritize comfort, fit, and style for every body.
Maggie Sottero
Maggie Sottero has been a beloved name in bridal wear for years, and their plus-size collection bolsters this positive reputation. Their designs focus on romantic, timeless styles with impeccable attention to detail. Think dreamy lace appliqu s, shimmering beadwork, and flowing tulle skirts. However, they bring a modern edge to their styles with unique sleeves and detailing you won't see anywhere else.
What sets Maggie Sottero apart is their dedication to inclusivity. Many of their designs are available up to size 28, ensuring that every bride can find her perfect fit. Whether you're envisioning a sleek mermaid silhouette or a classic ball gown, Maggie Sottero offers something for every aesthetic.
Allure Bridals
Allure Bridals is a go-to for brides who love sophisticated elegance with a touch of fairytale charm. Their thoughtful plus-size designs highlight curves in all the right ways while remaining supremely comfortable and elegant.
They use materials like Mikado silk and stretch crepe to provide structure and grace, along with intricate crystal embellishments and illusion backs to make brides feel like princesses. Allure Bridals offers gowns that range up to size 32, catering to a wide spectrum of plus-size brides. If you want a storybook wedding, Allure Bridals is the designer for you.
Elysee
For brides dreaming of luxury-inspired gowns, Elysee delivers runway-worthy designs that make heads turn. Famed for their dramatic silhouettes, intricate lace, and delicate sparkle, Elysee focuses on blending European-inspired artisanship with contemporary trends.
Elysee's plus-size collection ensures the same level of elegance and detail for brides of sizes up to 30. With grandiose silhouettes, iconic, delicate capes, and even gowns of unconventional colors, Elysee will make you feel like the queen that you are on your wedding day.
Lillian West
If your wedding day vibes are more boho-chic than traditional, Lillian West is your match. Known for dreamy, free-spirited designs, this label combines lightweight fabrics, unique detailing, and relaxed silhouettes for a look that oozes effortless romance.
Plus-size brides will adore the comfort and variety Lillian West delivers, with dresses available up to size 30. Picture yourself walking down the aisle in a flowing A-line adorned with whimsical floral appliqu s or a sultry fit-and-flare with off-the-shoulder sleeves. Does that sound like you? If so, we definitely recommend checking out this brand's designs.
Essense of Australia
When it comes to classic bridal fashion, Essense of Australia often tops the list for plus-size brides. This label features a variety of jaw-dropping styles that range from modern and minimalist to dramatic and daring. All their styles, however, generally reflect the idea that less is more. The designs may be relatively simple compared to the other names on this list, but Essence of Australia does simple right.
Moreover, their gowns go up to size 34, and each design is crafted to highlight the beauty of every body type. If you want a meticulously designed, classic wedding dress, this brand could be your favorite.
Martina Liana
Martina Liana is the epitome of couture bridal design. Each gown is like a piece of art, featuring striking silhouettes, masterful beading, and luxurious fabrics that wow from every angle.
Their plus-size options include both traditional and contemporary styles, allowing you to choose a look that reflects your personality. Whether it's a sleek satin gown or an embellished ball gown, Martina Liana combines glamour with functionality.
Stella York
Stella York is under the Essense of Australia brand, offering slightly more budget-friendly and red carpet–inspired gowns. For the budget-conscious bride who doesn't want to compromise on style, Stella York is a fantastic choice. Their inclusive plus-size options highlight trendy details and modern finishes.
From flattering A-lines to sexy mermaid cuts, Stella York gowns are designed to suit a variety of tastes and shapes. Their dresses are available in sizes up to 36, making them a top choice for plus-size brides seeking comfort and style.
Justin Alexander Signature
Justin Alexander Signature specializes in unique, fashion-forward designs that stand out in a crowd. Their gowns feature bold architectural elements, chic necklines, and daring details like laser-cut flowers, making them perfect for the modern bride unafraid of making a statement.
Plus-size brides appreciate how Justin Alexander Signature balances high-fashion aesthetics with thoughtful construction, ensuring every gown fits many body types beautifully.
What Plus-Size Brides Need To Know Before Shopping
Now that you know about the top plus-size wedding dress designers, you can begin searching for your dream gown from inclusive brands. Just make sure to keep these tips in mind:
Do Your Research
Spend time looking through all the designs from the inclusive labels above (or branch out to find other plus-size labels). Once you know which designer best suits your vision, you can narrow down your search even further.
Focus on Fit, Not Size
Sizing is not consistent in the fashion world, especially when it comes to bridal sizes, which typically run larger. Don't let this sway your decision. What matters most is the fit and how you feel in the dress.
Be Open-Minded
Even if you've pictured yourself in one style for years, don't forget to try on a variety of silhouettes. You might be surprised by what flatters you most.
Share Your Vision
Be honest with your stylist about your preferences and comfort level. Their job is to help make your dream a reality!
Shop at Alexandra's Boutique
The easiest place to shop for a wedding gown is a boutique, which carries a variety of styles from many different designers. At Alexandra's Boutique, we're committed to carrying a wide range of full-figure wedding dresses. Our goal is always to help you find your dream gown and feel your most beautiful. Plus, we carry six of the eight innovative brands mentioned above! Make an appointment with us today to start trying on dresses that will celebrate the curvaceous, gorgeous you!