Finding a formal gown as a curvy girl is no easy task.
So many dresses are either too tight in all the wrong places, awkwardly oversized, or just don’t have the right structure to complement a fuller figure. The struggle is real! But looking and feeling amazing in a formal dress shouldn’t be this hard. I’ve rounded up some of the most flattering, well-fitted gowns that actually work for curvy bodies—whether you’re heading to a black-tie wedding, a gala, or any event that calls for something special.
Disclaimer: All images featured in this post are sourced from the respective retailers’ websites. I do not own the rights to these photos—they are used for reference and inspiration to help you find the perfect dress. Be sure to check the original sites for availability, sizing, and more details!
One Shoulder Gown
A sleek and sophisticated choice for a formal wedding—extra points for being black tie appropriate! The silhouette is ultra-flattering for a curvy girly, accentuating all the right places.
Pink Ruffle Dress
How fun is this color? If you’re a brunette, this shade will make your hair pop! A stunning formal plus-size gown, perfect for a variety of wedding styles.
Whimsical Sleeve Number
This dress has it all—a flattering one-shoulder neckline and a forgiving pattern. A standout curvy gown that works beautifully for formal wedding occasions.
Scalloped Edgey Maxi
This might be my favorite on the list! The mix of textures and that dreamy silhouette make this an instant five-star dress. Perfect for a black-tie affair or a romantic garden wedding.
Sleeved & Chic Gown
Being curvy means sometimes I don’t want to show my arms, and that’s totally okay—especially with dresses like this! A classic, flattering gown available in so many colors. A true win for the plus-size girlies!
Red Statement Dress
Va va vooooom! This fiery red number is playful, bold, and made for twirling on the dance floor. Plus, the silhouette is super forgiving—win-win!
Floral One-Shoulder Beauty
Hello, gorgeous! Another stunning one-shoulder moment, but this time with the dreamiest floral print. Perfect for a garden wedding or a romantic outdoor soirée.
Bold & Effortless Gown
Want that cool-girl, effortless vibe? This dress is the ultimate statement piece. Pair it with layers of gold jewelry for a seriously chic look.
Pleated Sleeved Black Dress
You can never go wrong with a classic black dress. The pleated sleeves add the perfect touch of drama—style this with silver accessories for a glam, polished look.
Floral Goddess Gown
This dress is pure magic. The colors, the pattern, the flowy shape—it’s giving ‘goddess at a black-tie event’ in the best way possible.
Floral Accent Dress
A modern take on the classic black dress. The structured floral appliqué and cutout detail add a bold, fashion-forward touch—perfect for a sleek, contemporary wedding guest look.
Abstract Satin Gown
A total statement piece! The rich bronze and navy pattern, silky fabric, and ruched waist make this dress a showstopper. Perfect for a luxe fall or winter wedding.
Off-Shoulder Corset Gown
Old Hollywood glam meets modern elegance. The draped off-the-shoulder neckline and corset-style bodice give this dress a regal touch, making it a stunning choice for a formal event.
Bronze Slip Dress
Understated yet striking, this bronze slip dress is effortlessly luxurious. The draped side detail and high slit make it a sultry yet sophisticated option for any formal event.
Halter Print Maxi
Bohemian yet polished, this halter-neck maxi brings movement and personality. The gathered waist makes it ultra-flattering, and the pattern is perfect for an outdoor or destination wedding.
One-Shoulder Floral Navy Gown
This floral number is giving romance and sophistication. The structured one-shoulder bow detail elevates the look, making it perfect for a formal wedding or spring soirée.
Vibrant Red & Pink Maxi
The mix of bold red and hot pink is playful and eye-catching, while the cinched waist and flowy skirt give major goddess energy.
Cold-Shoulder Pleated Black Dress
Chic, timeless, and effortlessly elegant. The pleated skirt adds movement, while the cold-shoulder cut keeps it modern. Perfect for a black-tie event or an evening wedding.
Colorful Wrap Dress
A vibrant, artsy dream. The fun color palette and wrap silhouette make this the perfect mix of playful and polished—great for a garden party or daytime wedding.
Emerald One-Shoulder Gown
A bold color moment! The structured fit and one-shoulder neckline make this dress both modern and timeless. That high slit adds the perfect amount of drama—stunning for a black-tie wedding.
Botanical Mesh Maxi
Black Tie Gown
Classic, polished, and effortlessly chic. The structured square neckline and waist tie make this dress timelessly elegant. Perfect for a formal event or a sophisticated wedding guest look.
Navy Wrap Gown
The ultimate timeless wrap dress—flattering for every body type with an effortlessly elegant flow. Perfect for weddings, galas, or any event where you want to feel like royalty.
Black Velvet Deep V Gown
This dress is drama in the best way. The plush velvet, deep V neckline, and flutter sleeves make it a sophisticated showstopper for a winter wedding or gala.
