23 Plus Size Dresses Formal That Are Trending Right Now

23 Plus Size Dresses Formal That Are Trending Right Now

Let’s be honest — finding a formal dress that actually fits well, feels comfortable, and looks like it was made for your body (not just resized from a smaller pattern) can feel like a scavenger hunt. But the plus size formal dress game has leveled up in a big way this year, and I’m genuinely excited about what’s out there right now.

Whether you’ve got a wedding, a gala, a work event, or you just want something ready for whenever the occasion calls, this list covers 23 plus size dresses formal enough for anything on your calendar. From bold colors to classic silhouettes, there’s something here for every taste and every budget.

The Emerald Green Wrap Dress

There’s a reason wrap dresses never go out of style — they cinch in all the right places and flatter pretty much every body type. In a deep emerald green, this style feels rich and formal without trying too hard. It’s the kind of dress that works for a fall wedding or a holiday party equally well.

Pair it with gold jewelry and strappy heels, and you’re done. Brands like Eloquii and Anthropologie have gorgeous versions in this exact colorway right now.

The Classic Black Mermaid Gown

If you want something that photographs beautifully and makes an entrance, a mermaid silhouette in black is timeless. It hugs your curves through the waist and hips before flaring out dramatically at the knee.

This is a splurge-worthy pick, but it’s the kind of dress you’ll rewear for years. Save it for black-tie events or anything where you want to feel like the main character.

The Burgundy Off-Shoulder Midi

Burgundy is having a real moment in formal wear this season, and the off-shoulder neckline adds just enough drama. This midi length is great if you want formal but not floor-length — think engagement parties or rehearsal dinners.

Style it with statement earrings since the neckline draws the eye upward anyway. A pair of ankle strap heels keeps the whole look polished.

The Cobalt Blue Ball Gown

Cobalt blue is bold, and honestly, that’s the point. A ball gown silhouette with a fitted bodice and full skirt is dramatic in the best way, and it’s a color that photographs incredibly well under event lighting.

This one is perfect for a gala or a formal wedding where you want to stand out (in a good way). Nordstrom and ASOS both carry stunning options in this shade.

The Sequin Cocktail Dress

Sequins instantly say “formal,” and a cocktail-length sequin dress is a shortcut to looking put-together with zero extra effort. Go for a champagne or rose gold tone if you want something a little softer, or classic black for maximum versatility.

Keep accessories minimal here — the dress is doing all the talking. A simple clutch and nude heels are all you need.

The Floral Print Maxi Gown

Not every formal dress has to be solid and moody. A floral maxi in rich jewel tones works beautifully for garden weddings or spring formal events. It feels romantic without being overly sweet.

This is a great option if you lean toward softer, more feminine silhouettes. Look for one with a defined waist so it doesn’t read as shapeless.

The One-Shoulder Bodycon Dress

For a more modern, editorial feel, a one-shoulder bodycon dress is a great pick. It’s fitted through the body, which some people love for formal events since it creates a sleek, streamlined silhouette.

This style works especially well in solid jewel tones like sapphire or ruby red. Add hoop earrings and you’re set for a cocktail hour or upscale dinner party.

The Rust Colored A-Line Dress

Rust is one of those colors that just feels warm and flattering on almost everyone. An A-line cut skims over the midsection while still looking structured and formal, making it a genuinely comfortable option for events where you’ll be standing or dancing a lot.

This is a solid pick for fall weddings specifically. Pair it with chunky gold jewelry for a look that feels current.

The Navy Lace Overlay Dress

Lace adds texture and formality without needing sequins or beading. A navy lace overlay dress feels sophisticated and works for pretty much any formal event, from a work gala to a milestone birthday party.

The dark color is also genuinely practical since it hides everything and photographs well in dim lighting. Silver jewelry pairs beautifully with navy tones.

The Camel Satin Slip Dress

Satin slip dresses have become a formal wear staple, and camel is a refreshing alternative to the usual black or navy. It has an effortless, almost old-Hollywood vibe.

This one works best layered under a blazer for cooler weather, or worn alone for warmer formal events. Free People has some beautiful satin options in this tone right now.

The Forest Green Velvet Gown

Velvet screams winter formal wear, and forest green is a gorgeous alternative to the typical burgundy or black options everyone else is wearing. It has a luxe, cozy feel that’s perfect for holiday parties.

This gown works especially well for evening events since velvet photographs richly under low light. Add statement drop earrings to complete the look.

The Animal Print Formal Dress

If you want to push your formal wear a little further, animal print is unexpectedly having a moment in the dressy category. A leopard print maxi or midi dress reads as bold and confident rather than costume-y when the cut is sophisticated.

This works great for cocktail parties or events where the dress code says “formal” but you still want your personality to show. Keep jewelry simple so the print stays the star.

The Hot Pink Statement Dress

Sometimes you want to be the person in the room everyone remembers, and a hot pink formal dress does exactly that. This color is having a serious resurgence in formal wear, especially for spring and summer events.

Go for a fitted silhouette with some structure through the bodice. Silver or gold jewelry both work — it really comes down to personal preference here.

The Plaid Taffeta Dress

Plaid isn’t just for fall flannels anymore. A plaid taffeta formal dress feels unexpected and fashion-forward, especially in a fit-and-flare or ball gown silhouette. The rustling texture of taffeta also just feels inherently fancy.

This is a great pick if your formal event leans a little more fun and less traditional. Think milestone birthdays or New Year’s Eve parties.

The Houndstooth Formal Dress

Houndstooth print has crossed over from workwear into formal territory this year, and it’s such a chic option if you want pattern without going full animal print or plaid. A midi length in houndstooth feels polished and a little editorial.

Pair it with classic black heels and gold hoop earrings for a look that feels intentional. This works well for semi-formal work events too.

The Chrome Metallic Slip Dress

Metallics are everywhere right now, and a chrome or silver slip dress is a striking option for evening formal events. It catches the light beautifully on the dance floor, which is honestly half the appeal.

This style pairs well with minimal jewelry since the fabric itself is already a statement. Strappy silver heels complete the look without competing with it.

The Deep Plum Corset Dress

Corset-style bodices have made their way into formal dresses in a big way, and deep plum is a gorgeous, moody color choice. The structured top gives definition while the skirt (often A-line or trumpet style) balances it out.

This works beautifully for evening weddings or upscale dinner events. It’s fitted but not restrictive if you find the right size and brand.

The Champagne Beaded Gown

For events where you want maximum glamour, a champagne beaded gown delivers every time. The soft neutral tone is universally flattering, and the beading catches light in a way that feels genuinely special-occasion-worthy.

This is a splurge pick, but worth it for something like a milestone anniversary party or black-tie wedding. Nude or gold heels complete the look seamlessly.

The Cold-Shoulder Fit-and-Flare Dress

Cold-shoulder cutouts add a little edge to an otherwise classic fit-and-flare silhouette. This style is flattering through the waist and gives movement through the skirt, which makes it comfortable for events with dancing.

Try it in a jewel tone like sapphire or emerald for a formal feel. Layered necklaces work nicely with the shoulder cutouts here.

The Draped Jersey Maxi Dress

Not every formal dress needs structure — a draped jersey maxi is soft, comfortable, and still totally appropriate for formal settings when done in the right fabric and color. Look for one with ruching through the waist for definition.

This is a genuinely comfortable option if you’re standing for hours at an event. Deep colors like wine or navy elevate it instantly.

The Two-Piece Formal Set

Skirt-and-top formal sets have become a popular alternative to traditional dresses, and they’re worth considering if you like mixing pieces. A fitted crop top paired with a long, flowy skirt in a matching fabric reads as formal while giving you more styling flexibility.

This is a fun pick if you want to rewear the pieces separately down the line. ASOS and Lulus both have great options in this category right now.

The Cape Sleeve Gown

Cape sleeves are a subtle way to add drama to a formal look without going overboard. They flow beautifully when you walk and photograph incredibly well from every angle.

This detail works on almost any silhouette, from A-line to mermaid. It’s an especially good choice if you want extra coverage on the arms while still looking dressed up.

The Blush Tulle Ball Gown

Ending on something dreamy — a blush tulle ball gown is about as formal as it gets. The soft pink tone and voluminous skirt make it a standout choice for proms, quinceañeras, or any event where you want a true fairytale moment.

This one is definitely a statement piece, so keep accessories minimal and let the dress do the work. It’s the kind of gown people remember.

However you’re dressing for your next formal event, the options out there right now genuinely make it easier to find something that fits your style, your body, and your budget. From bold jewel tones to soft neutrals, this list of 23 plus size dresses formal enough for any occasion proves there’s no shortage of gorgeous choices this season.