Forgot to add, size 16-18! ETA: I can’t edit the original post, and there’s too many to reply all to, but THANK YOU! I read every comment & bookmarked some new sites & put some things in my cart to decide on. Answer from sluttychurros on reddit.com
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David's Bridal
davidsbridal.com › collections › plus size cocktail dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses | David's Bridal | David's Bridal
Find plus size cocktail dresses in a variety of styles, including dresses with sleeves in red, black & white perfect for a wedding or cocktail attire. S...
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Nordstrom
nordstrom.com › browse › women › clothing › plus-size › dresses
Women's Cocktail & Party Plus-Size Dresses
Find a great selection of Women's Clothing at Nordstrom.com. Shop dresses, tops, jackets, jeans, sweaters and more from a variety of top brands and designers.
People also ask

What is the most flattering cocktail dress style for plus size women?
Wrap and fit-and-flare styles are universally flattering, offering waist definition and flow that balances proportions.
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adriannapapell.com
adriannapapell.com › home › inspiration › your complete guide to plus-size cocktail dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses & Style Ideas - Adrianna Papell
What Should You Look for in a Plus Size Wedding Guest Cocktail Dress?
When shopping for plus size cocktail dresses, prioritize structured fabrics with slight stretch like crepe, ponte, or jersey blends that skim rather than cling.

Look for thoughtful details like ruching, strategically placed seams, and built-in support.

Focus on fit through the shoulders and bust—these anchor points make everything else drape properly. Choose styles with defined waistlines (even subtle ones) to create shape.

Remember that V-necks, wrap styles, and A-line silhouettes flatter most body types while offering comfort for seated events and dancing.
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thegoodpositive.com
thegoodpositive.com › plus-size-wedding-guest-cocktail-dresses
21 Plus Size Wedding Guest Cocktail Dresses You'll Love
How Do You Choose the Right Length for a Plus Size Wedding Cocktail Dress?
The most universally flattering cocktail dress length hits just at or slightly below the knee—this showcases legs while maintaining elegance.

For formal weddings, midi-length (mid-calf) offers sophistication while eliminating hosiery concerns.

If you love your legs, a hem that hits just above the knee elongates them, especially when paired with nude-to-you heels.

Always sit down when trying dresses to ensure the hemline doesn't ride up uncomfortably.

Remember that asymmetrical hems (higher in front, lower in back) create visual interest while offering adjustable coverage.
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thegoodpositive.com
thegoodpositive.com › plus-size-wedding-guest-cocktail-dresses
21 Plus Size Wedding Guest Cocktail Dresses You'll Love
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Adrianna Papell
adriannapapell.com › home › inspiration › your complete guide to plus-size cocktail dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses & Style Ideas - Adrianna Papell
For effortlessly elegant options, Adrianna Papell’s blouson dress collection offers sophisticated silhouettes crafted to flatter plus-size curves that are ideal for weddings, cocktail hours, and formal gatherings.
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Azazie
azazie.com › plus size cocktail dresses for women | azazie
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses for Women | Azazie
Explore elegant plus size cocktail dresses at Azazie. Chic mini, midi, and maxi styles perfect for weddings, parties, evening events, and any special occasion.
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Aldvin Gomes
thegoodpositive.com › plus-size-wedding-guest-cocktail-dresses
21 Plus Size Wedding Guest Cocktail Dresses You'll Love
August 17, 2025 - Monochromatic dressing (one color head-to-toe) creates an elongating vertical line. For spring/summer weddings, dusty blues and blush pinks photograph gorgeously. If you love prints, choose ones where the pattern size is proportionate to your frame—too tiny can look busy. The most universally flattering cocktail dress length hits just at or slightly below the knee—this showcases legs while maintaining elegance.
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LaneBryant
lanebryant.com › clothing › dresses › occasion
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses & Party Dresses | Lane Bryant
We have a wide selection of party dresses for whatever you might celebrate. You can even pair a plus size cocktail dress with some fun sandals for a more casual, warmer-weather look. In the spring season, you'll want a stylish new plus size dress for events like weddings and parties.
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Reddit
reddit.com › r/bitcheswithtaste › bwt who are plus size, where are you shopping for cocktail dresses?
r/bitcheswithtaste on Reddit: BWT who are plus size, where are you shopping for cocktail dresses?
August 15, 2024 -

I have a couple of things I’m going to at the end of Sept and am looking for an outfit or two that isn’t 1) matronly or 2) formal wedding guest attire. I’d love something like the dress in the link, but can’t find anything like it for a plus size woman. Where do you guys shop, besides Macy’s/Nordstrom/Torrid/JC Penny? Please no Shein, I refuse to give them my money. Not thrilled with buying clothes from Amazon either.

Find elsewhere
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Reddit
reddit.com › r/weddingattireapproval › help finding plus sized cocktail dress for sept wedding (guest) pacific nw
r/Weddingattireapproval on Reddit: Help finding plus sized cocktail dress for Sept wedding (guest) pacific NW
May 17, 2023 -

I am attending a small, intimate wedding in Sept. Cocktail dress. Need to avoid black (wedding party will be wearing) or emeral green (groom). I usually wear navy, but know the MOB is wearing navy (my sister/bestie). I've asked and she thinks it would be ok since I always wear it, but thinking I could branch out. I am a plump middle aged woman, so something that will not make me a parade float/no sequins.

Any ideas appreciated. Google doesn't understand "cocktail dress" and I am not super sure either. What to wear? I am not comfortable sleeveless, and am just under 6' so short would be too short on me. High waist will make me look pregnant.

ETA what defines cocktail? In my younger days, short, shiny, glittery, etc. Not what Google shows me (longer more casual)

Top answer
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Dia & Co has some lovely options, largely by Kiyonna. Lace Dress - This would be pretty in sapphire, pinot noir, or, if you want to go with a summery color, coral. (I feel like September is a month where you can go summer or fall, depending on when during the month the event happens.) Second Lace Option - In addition to the shades you're trying to avoid (black and navy), this one comes in a lighter blue and the same coral as the first one. Third Lace Option - These lace dresses are all similar, but with different necklines and details. This one is really pretty, too, and comes in coral, indigo blue, plum wine, and ruby. I think the plum wine is such a pretty color if you're looking to go with a fall color. Fourth Lace Option - I'm not sure if this waist is too high for you, but I think the berry bliss color is so pretty for fall! Lace and Satin Dress - This dress in burgundy is definitely appropriate for a cocktail wedding! Embroidered Floral - In my experience, dresses similar to this one have become very popular for wedding guests. If you're willing to do black with a print/embroidery, I think this one is really pretty! Portrait Neckline - If you're comfortable wearing a strapless bra, I love this dress with a portrait neckline. Ruched Dress - I have this in black and I love the fit! I know you're not looking to wear black, but it also comes in a lovely pink. City Chic also has some great options! Strapless Ruffle - The available sizes are limited, but, if you're willing to go strapless, I think this is so pretty in garnet. Floral Print - This is the same dress as above, but in floral. It does have a black base, but the print is a large bold floral, so, if the bridesmaid dresses are solid black, it would look nothing like the bridesmaid dresses. Another Floral Option - This looks very similar to the above dresses, but I think the material is slightly different. The print is lovely! Tie Dress - This is lovely in the lighter blue! It's kind of close to navy, but, since your sister has expressed that she doesn't mind you wearing navy, I don't think it's a big deal if you wear a color that's navy-adjacent. Jumpsuit - If you want to be bold, a jumpsuit could be fun, and, as long as it's the appropriate level of formality, is appropriate for a cocktail dress code. I know jumpsuits may be different for someone your height, though. Chain Belt - It's possible I'm too into purple, but I really love the color of this one, and I think the included belt is fun, too! Reformation and BooHoo also have some lovely plus size options, though, admittedly, Reformation's sizes are more limited - up to a 3X, but I have found that their pieces run small, especially if you have a larger chest, so their 3X likely fits like a 2X in some other brands.
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Check out Eloquii for plus size and not so matronly light blue satin love the basil color this one is my fave I like this one in hot pink or baby blue
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Walmart
walmart.com › clothing › womens plus › plus size dresses › plus size cocktail dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses in Plus Size Dresses - Walmart.com
a.JesdaniWomen's Plus Size Maxi Dress Boho Floral Butterfly Sleeve V Neck Flowy Maxi Dress Party Wedding Guest Dress L-4X ... 2025 Fall Fashion Women Dresses Sequin Saprkly Mini Dress Long Sleeve V Neck High Waist Dress Party Prom Cocktail Glitter Dress (Silver,M)
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Kiyonna
kiyonna.com › collections › plus-size-cocktail-dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses | Kiyonna Clothing
Shop Our Trendy Plus Size Cocktail Dresses If you're looking for the perfect plus size cocktail dresses for your next party or event, Kiyonna has just what you need to feel amazing for your special occasion. With trendy styles, beautiful patterns and elegant, yet comfortable fabrics, you’ll ...
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Torrid
torrid.com › home
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses | Torrid
From flirty plus size mini cocktail dresses to elegant plus size midi cocktail dress styles and playful plus size skater cocktail dress lengths, we’ve got a cocktail dress for every body and anybody . Our plus size cocktail dresses come in a variety of colors and patterns, including classic black and white, and feature flattering designs that will highlight your curves in all the right ways.
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Adrianna Papell
adriannapapell.com › collections › plus-size-wedding-guest-dresses
Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses & Gowns for Women - Adrianna Papell
Start with the dress code, then focus on silhouettes that flatter your figure like wrap, A-line, or empire waist styles. Soft and flowy fabrics like chiffon, jersey, crepe, and stretch lace work beautifully and offer comfort without clinging. Midi and maxi lengths are both flattering options, ...
Price   $$$
Address   12 W 37th St 10th floor, 10018, New York
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Pinterest
pinterest.com › sydneyscloset › plus-size-cocktail-dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses
Short and sexy, these Cocktail Dresses are perfect for a night out on the town!
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Adrianna Papell
adriannapapell.com › collections › plus-size-cocktail-dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses & Outfits for Women - Adrianna Papell
Choosing the right cocktail dress style is essential to ensure an elegant look. Here are some of our fave options: Wrap dresses are universally flattering, especially for plus size figures. They accentuate the waist and provide a customizable fit, making them ideal for curvy body types.
Price   $$$
Address   12 W 37th St 10th floor, 10018, New York
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Adrianna Papell
adriannapapell.com › home › wedding planning › elegant plus size styles for every wedding guest
Elegant Plus Size Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Event - Adrianna Papell
Plus size cocktail dresses for wedding celebrations can range from sophisticated sheath dresses to floaty midis with lace or embroidery. For a trendy yet timeless look, try a wrap-front midi in a bold, solid color or a subtle floral print. Look for something that defines your waist and skims ...
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Citychiconline
citychiconline.com › plus-size-dresses › cocktail-dresses
Women's Plus Size Cocktail Dresses | City Chic
Celebrate your gorgeous curves in our sleek & sexy cocktail dresses. Choose between flirty mini dresses, sleek & sophisticated midi dresses & flattering maxi dresses that bring your look to life.
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Ever-Pretty US
ever-pretty.com › home › plus size cocktail dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses for Women - Ever-Pretty US
Meet the dresses you’ll actually look forward to wearing. This collection focuses on curve-loving details—supportive bodices, bra-friendly necklines, smoothing linings, and silhouettes that skim (not squeeze). Explore mini and midi lengths for cocktail codes, with best-selling shapes like bodycon, A-line, and empire waist plus sleeve options for extra coverage. Shopping is simple: filter by length (short/midi), occasion (wedding guest, office party, night out), fabric (satin, sequin, chiffon), neckline/sleeve, color, and size.
Price   «$$$»
Address   16721 Noyes Avenue Irvine, 92606, California
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Amazon
amazon.ca › plus-size-cocktail-dress › s
Amazon.ca: Plus Size Cocktail Dress
Amazon's Choicefor "plus size cocktail dress" +9 · 4.34.3 out of 5 stars (12.8K) Black Friday Deal · Price, product page$41.33$41.33 Was: $52.99 · Was: $52.99$52.99 · FREE delivery Wed, Dec 3 · Or fastest delivery Sat, Nov 29 · Add to cart · +2 · 4.34.3 out of 5 stars (1.1K) Price, product page$49.99$49.99 ·
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Refinery29
refinery29.com › most wanted › best plus-size wedding dresses › fashion › the latest › plus-size
Dress Your Best In These 25 Plus-Size Cocktail Wedding Guest Dresses
February 26, 2024 - Cider's Curve & Plus shop has a host of everyday and elevated styles, including wedding-guest-appropriate dresses. But what makes this fun and festive mini dress even better? The fact that it comes in sizes up to 26 and costs just $38. Shop Cider ... ASOS' Curve line is also a great place to look for cocktail dresses. This flowy midi dress, available up to size 26, is so romantic, chic, and the waist belt is super flattering.
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Davidsbridal
davidsbridal.ca › dresses › plus-size-cocktail-dresses
Plus Size Cocktail Dresses
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