Best Plus Size Budget Wedding Dresses for Curvy Brides

Let’s be real for a moment. Searching for plus-size budget wedding dresses used to feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. That’s because the wedding industry hasn’t always been the most inclusive when it comes to body types.

But times are changing. 

Designers have finally realized that beautiful brides come in all shapes and sizes. Gone are the days of limited options and sky-high prices for curvy brides. Now, it’s all about celebrating your gorgeous curves and finding a bridal gown that makes you feel like the queen you are – without emptying your entire wedding budget on a single item.

Ready to strut down the aisle with confidence? Use the tips and tricks in this style guide to find the most flattering bridal dress styles in fabrics that hug your curves in all the right places at prices you can afford. 

What are the most flattering silhouettes for plus-size brides?

Choosing the right silhouette can make all the difference with a plus-size budget wedding dress. There’s a perfect cut for every curvy bride that’s designed to accentuate your best features, create a balanced look, and boost your confidence on your big day. 

Check out some of these options for flattering your figure. While these styles are the most recommended for fuller figures, the most important factor in choosing a dress is how it makes you feel. 

A-line bridal dresses

A-line bridal dresses are a popular choice for plus-size brides for a reason. This silhouette is characterized by a fitted bodice that flares out gently from the waist, creating an “A” shape. 

For curvier brides, A-line dresses work because:

• They cinch at the smallest part of your waist, creating an hourglass effect. 
• The flared skirt skims over your hips and thighs, providing a smooth, elongated look.
• They offer a balance between comfort and elegance.
• Their versatility suits casual and formal wedding ceremonies. 

Empire waist bridal gowns

Empire waist gowns feature a high waistline that sits just below your bust. The skirt flows down from there, drawing attention to the smallest part of your torso to create a slimming effect. 

Other reasons this dress works for plus-size brides:

• The flowing skirt camouflages the midsection, hips, and thighs. 
• It creates an illusion of length for shorter, curvier brides.
• It boasts a comfortable fit that allows for easy movement. 

Mermaid and trumpet styles

If you’ve got ‘em, flaunt ‘em (curves, that is). Contrary to popular belief, mermaid and trumpet styles are stunning on curvy brides. These figure-hugging bridal gowns are fitted through the bodice, hips, and thighs, then flare out below the knee (trumpet) or at the knee (mermaid). 

This style works well because:

• It celebrates and accentuates curves rather than hiding them.
• The flared bottom balances out fuller hips and thighs.
• It creates a dramatic, red-carpet-worthy silhouette.

Ball gown style wedding dresses

Ball gown style wedding dresses feature a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt that starts at the waist. This princess-like silhouette is an excellent choice for curvy brides because it creates a balanced look, particularly for brides with fuller busts. 

Some other reasons to consider this style:

• It cinches at the natural waistline, creating an hourglass shape. 
• Its voluminous skirt allows for comfortable movement and sitting.
• It offers a timeless, romantic look. 

How can plus-size budget wedding dresses accentuate your curves?

Embracing and accentuating your curves is all about choosing the right design elements in your bridal gown. The beauty of today’s plus-size budget wedding dresses is that they offer various features to enhance your natural shape. 

Don’t be afraid to mix and match these features to create your perfect plus-size budget wedding dress. The right combination can celebrate your curves while boosting your confidence. 

Corset-style bodices

Corset-style bodices are a fantastic option for curvy brides because they provide structure and support, especially for brides with fuller busts. The lacing – sometimes called boning – creates a more defined waistline, giving an attractive hourglass shape. 

Don’t be afraid of corsets. They’re not the torture devices of yesteryear. Modern corsets are adjustable to provide comfortable support throughout your wedding day. 

V-necklines and sweetheart necklines

The right neckline significantly impacts the way your dress flatters your fuller figure. V-necklines create a vertical lime, elongating your torso and creating a slimming effect. They do this by drawing the eye upward, and balancing out fuller hips and thighs. 

Sweetheart necklines complement and enhance your curves, especially if you have an ample bust. 

Both styles can make your neck appear longer to showcase your decolletage beautifully. 

Off-the-shoulder and cap sleeve options

Off-the-shoulder styles draw attention to your collarbone and shoulders, creating a romantic and feminine look. They can help balance out fuller hips by adding visual interest to your upper body. 

Cap sleeves provide arm coverage while keeping the look of your bridal gown light and airy. 

Both options make your waist appear smaller by broadening the shoulder line. 

What fabrics work best for plus-size budget wedding dresses?

Fabric choice for your bridal gown is just as important as the style and other features. The right material affects how the dress drapes on your body and impacts your comfort. While you want to look breathtaking on your wedding day, you don’t want to be miserable because you look – but don’t feel – good in your bridal gown. 

Check out some of these fabrics that work wonders for your curves without straining your budget. 

Stretch fabrics for comfort 

Stretchy fabrics like crepe, jersey, lace, mesh, Mikado (polyester and spandex blend), and power mesh are a game-changer for curvy brides. They offer flexibility and ease of movement to provide nonstop comfort. 

Stretch crepe and jersey hug your curves without feeling restrictive. They’re more forgiving in fit, meaning fewer alterations. 

Surprisingly affordable, stretch fabrics are perfect for budget-conscious brides. 

Lace overlays for elegance

Lace is a timeless choice that works beautifully for fuller-figure brides. It adds texture and visual interest to your bridal gown without adding bulk that feels heavy and traps heat. You can strategically place lace on your dress to highlight certain areas. 

Many budget-friendly dresses use lace appliques rather than all-over lace to keep costs down. 

Chiffon for flow and movement 

Chiffon is adored for its lightweight and flowing characteristics that add romance to any bridal gown. It drapes beautifully on curvy figures, skimming over – rather than clinging to – your body in all the right places. 

Chiffon moves as you walk, drawing attention to you as you walk down the aisle or glide across the floor during your first dance. Because it’s so light and airy, it’s perfect for outdoor or summer weddings. 

Many plus-size budget wedding dresses use chiffon for overlays or skirts, adding elegance without expense. 

Satin for a classic look

Satin is a classic wedding gown choice for a good reason. It’s supportive and smoothing while at the same time, luxurious. From sleek sheaths to full ball gowns, satin is versatile enough for use in any wedding dress style. 

Some budget-friendly bridal gowns use polyester satin, which mimics the look of silk at a fraction of the cost. 

Finding the perfect plus-size budget wedding dress 

Your perfect plus-size budget wedding dress is out there, just waiting for you to find it. Don’t be discouraged if it takes trying on a few gowns to find the one. 

Remember that confidence is your best accessory. It doesn’t matter whether you choose a ballgown fit for a princess or a sleek sheath that hugs every curve. Wear it with pride. 

Need help choosing the right bridal gown to flatter your figure? Stop by our showroom to explore your options today.