In general, there are a few features you should always look for in a wedding guest outfit: the silhouette, neckline, and material. For example, slightly heavier fabrics with statement sleeves work well for those slightly chillier spring affairs, while mini dresses with bright colours and lightweight fabrics are ideal for casual summer weddings.
Below, Karen Millen has picked out six plus sized different looks to suit every occasion, style and dress code - from maxi dresses to trouser suits - so that you can re-focus on what matters across wedding season: celebrating love.
The structured midi
It can be tempting when picking out a plus-size wedding guest outfit to go for something looser, however, opting for a more structured look leaves you in control of which parts of your figure to accentuate, and can create a flattering, on-trend overall feel.
The Structured Crepe Pleated Midi Dress for example, in a refreshing light blue colourway, features a flattering belted waist and pleated skirt, and can be easily paired with a variety of layering pieces, or worn alone with a pair of stiletto heels for an elevated look.
The high-neck classic
Though we are firm believers that you don’t need to wear black in order to feel elevated and comfortable at an event, sometimes, the classics just work best. Opting for a classic, floaty shape for wedding season is a style trick as old as time, though pairing it in a darker colourway - such as black - adds a modern, more masculine edge to the look. Adding in a high-neck helps to create flow and feature, meaning you can keep accessories to a minimum - we recommend statement gold earrings - and go bold on the shoe.
This Soft Tailored High Low Midi Dress is timeless, flattering and will work hard in your wardrobe for years to come. Simply add a belt to change up the look if you’re planning on wearing it across a string of weddings this season, and, as summer hits, pair with a floral peep-toe shoe to play into the floral trend.
The maxi
If you prefer to keep your legs and arms covered, a maxi dress is always an option for weddings. Not only does it create length through the body and feel ‘complete’ with or without accessories, it also twirls beautifully across the dancefloor and flutters enticingly in a balmy breeze during a champagne reception. Opt for lighter fabrics and colours so as not to swamp your figure, or create a look that feels heavy, and think about patterns and textures running through the maxi that will help draw the eye and create focus.
Our Applique Organdie Buttoned Woven Maxi feels delicate, on-trend and flattering, while allowing for comfort and movement during the day. The blue, floral detail draws the eye to the finer detailing of the piece, while the neckline draws the eyes down the body to the flattering hemline.
The jumpsuit
The beauty of one-piece wedding guest outfits like jumpsuits is that looking put-together is effortless — pick one, and your outfit is complete. Initially designed for parachuters, the style not only embraces practicality and convenience but also adds a playful, modern twist to proceedings. Plus, they allow for unrestricted movement and, with the right material, can feel breezy and keep you cool, without compromising on comfort.
Showcasing a tailored wide-leg silhouette, this Soft Tailored Wide Leg Jumpsuit is panelled at the bodice and features a self-tie belt to further define the waist. The design features alluring cut-outs and a twisted-detail back for a unique touch.
The detailed look
Beading, embroidery and sequins are in, and they’re all trends that are showing no sign of dwindling anytime soon. Focusing on pieces that go all-in on the detailing, rather than looking for a specific colour, fit or form - like a jumpsuit or a midi dress - really open up your options, while still ensuring that your final look will make a statement.
If a dress made entirely out of sequins or a full-beaded jumpsuit feels too far out of your sartorial comfort zone, opt for pieces that play with the textured trend in-part. Think: a beaded waistband, a sequin hem or embroidered sleeves, our Beaded And Embroidery Woven Midi Dress, for example, uses beading to create shape and delicate embroidery to add a feminine feel to the bodice. The material plays with autumnal colours while the gold beading will catch the sunlight and create brightness across your body while framing the face.
The bold mini
As a plus size woman, it’s easy to shy away from mini dresses, and particularly bolder-hued versions. However, a well-chosen midi can help elongate your figure and create a flattering line down the body to give your wedding guest outfit a feeling of fun. And while you’re not playing it safe, consciously opting for a bolder colour will give the look real flair and focus, again, meaning that you can cut back on accessories and keep the whole feel lighter. Designs with belts or cinched waists work to define shape and curves (and conceal the midriff area, if that is something you're looking for, of course).
Our Boucle Double Breasted Long Sleeve Blazer Mini Dress plays into several spring/summer trends, as well as creating structure around the shoulders and waist to create a striking silhouette.
