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Itโs Plus Size Bridal Week at The Curvy Fashionista, and weโre rolling out the proverbial pink carpet for all our bold, beautiful, and style-savvy brides-to-be! Whether youโre planning a mountaintop elopement, a courthouse ceremony, or an epic themed bash, thereโs no rulebook saying you have to wear white, lace, or anything traditional at all.
In fact, this week is all about celebrating the brides who are doing things their wayโespecially when it comes to fashion. So letโs talk non-traditional plus size wedding dress ideas: the unexpected silhouettes, the vibrant hues, the edgy embellishments, and the โOMG where did you get that?!โ moments.
Before we dive into the looks, letโs talk about a few styling and shopping tips to help you say yes to the not-so-typical dress.
Style Tips for Choosing a Non-Traditional Plus Size Wedding Dress
1. Prioritize YOUR Vision (Not Their Expectations)
Your mom, your cousin, your well-meaning bestie may have ideas. But remember: you are the moment. The magic happens when you feel like the truest version of yourself. If that means a glittering jumpsuit or a black lace mermaid gown, go all in.
2. Consider Custom or Indie Designers
Yes, you can absolutely find stunning non-traditional gowns at major retailers (and weโll link a few faves below), but donโt sleep on custom designers. From Etsy creators to indie labels like Christian Omeshun, Nerecina, or Lorenza James by Elle Dove, there are creators who get plus bodies and are ready to collaborate on your dream look.
3. Go Dramatic with the Details
Whatโs a non-traditional plus size wedding dress without the Statement sleeves, dramatic trains, detachable overskirts, or sheer corsetry? Non-traditional doesnโt mean simple. Play up your personal style! Got a tattoo you love? Frame it with illusion lace. Want two looks in one? Try a removable cape or tulle topper for the ceremony-to-reception switch.
4. Accessorize Like a Maximalist
A non-traditional plus size wedding dress calls for equally fab extras. Think: crystal-encrusted boots, bold floral crowns, oversized earrings, or a celestial veil. This is your red carpet moment, and we say go big or go home.
5. Inspiration Is Everywhere (Especially Our Pinterest)
Weโve curated some of the best non-traditional plus size wedding dress ideas across Pinterest to keep your mood board thriving. Be sure to follow us hereโyou never know when youโll stumble across the one.
The Shift Toward Non-Traditional Bridal Fashion
The desire to wear something uniquely you is more than a passing trendโitโs a movement. According to a 2024 report from The Knot, 1 in 5 brides now opts for a non-white wedding dress, and nearly 30% of brides say they chose a โnon-traditionalโ look to reflect their personal style.
โTodayโs bride isnโt afraid to break the rulesโsheโs rewriting them. Weโre seeing a powerful shift where individuality, comfort, and cultural expression are front and center,โ
โ Andrea Pitter, designer and founder of Pantora Bridal
And the plus size bridal space? Weโre seeing even more innovation and celebration of individualityโbecause why fit in, when you were born to stand out?
2025 Non-Traditional Wedding Dress Trends to Watch
If youโre still exploring your perfect non-traditional look, here are the biggest bridal trends for 2025โeach with a link so you can dive deeper:
Bold Colors & Black Gowns
Brides are saying no to white and yes to stunning color! Black, red, blush, and gold are leading the way. Check out unique options at Olivia Bottega.
Jumpsuits & Two-Piece Ensembles
Perfect for fashion-forward, comfort-loving brides. Eloquii has options that feel modern, fresh, and unforgettable.
Vintage & Boho-Inspired Vibes
Lace, off-the-shoulder silhouettes, and 70s flair are having a moment. See the trend in action at Bittner Bridal.
Detachable Details
Convertible dresses with removable sleeves, skirts, or capes give you two (or more!) looks in one. Maggie Sottero has amazing options to explore.
Sustainable & Upcycled Gowns
Eco-chic brides are loving upcycled vintage looks and sustainable materials. Designers like Samantha Sleeper are leading the way.
Non-Traditional Plus Size Wedding Dress Ideas Weโre Obsessed With:
From black ball gowns and bridal jumpsuits to metallic minis and floral-embroidered tulle masterpiecesโthereโs so much more to the plus size bridal world than strapless A-lines.
"Nobody brings the drama better than Ursula, and this jaw-dropping beaded and appliqued tulle gown โ available in black as well as ivory โ features gorgeous tonal sparkle, trailing to a soft mermaid silhouetted skirt."
Up to a size 30
For those having smaller weddings, a vow renewal, or in need of a reception outfit, this champagne set needs to be in your cart!
Up to a size 28
"Beautiful embroidered wedding dress made with soft champagne tulle base and exquisite floral embroideries."
Up to a size 28. Custom sizing available.
You know we love Melissa Mercedes! This plus size wedding gown is just groovy!
Available up to size 28
"The Cora Gown is a colorful, ethereal one-shoulder gown with gorgeous floral details! Floral embroidery throughout features shades of blush, peach, burgundy, dark teal, vibrant green, emerald green, and hunter green."
Completely custom sizing
"Introducing Evie, a unique plus-size floral wedding dress if you're the modern bride who wants a non-traditional look when she says "I do". This ultra-feminine A-line gown is designed overall in soft, sweet organza fabric that features pretty blooms in barely-there shades of pink petals on an ivory background"
Available up to size 32
"Theย breathtaking Sea of Clouds wedding dress is the perfect choice for a fairytale day. Featuring an ostrich feather top and a full tulle skirt with a long train, this dress is sure to make a statement. Its lightweight design is perfect for a romanticย ceremony, and its classic style ensures it will be timeless. Make your special day one to remember with theย beautiful Sea of Clouds wedding dress."
Custom sizing only
"Here's a romantic fabric for your "something old" and a showstopper silhouette for your "something new," combined in one draped Mikado bridal gown to complete your perfect black-tie soiree."
Up to a size 28
Some standout styles to consider:
- Black velvet gowns for winter weddings
- Gold sequin dresses for the ultra-glam bride
- Romantic floral appliquรฉ tulle gowns
- Jumpsuits with capes (yes, capes!)
- Sheer and corseted looks that channel vintage burlesque
And yes, weโve got links and designer recommendations in the roundup, so donโt worryโweโve done the fashion homework for you.
Donโt Forget to Finish the Look:
Looking for the perfect accessories to elevate your fit? Or maybe the plus size engagement ring of your dreams? Weโve got you covered on all fronts.
Be sure to explore the rest of our Plus Size Bridal Week contentโweโre spotlighting indie designers, showcasing real bride inspiration, and serving all the glam and guidance you need for your big day.
Weโre here to help you walk down the aisle in style, confidence, and full-on fabulousness. ๐
I actually wore the Lilac Printed gown by Jibri! It was spectacular!