Since opening our Curve store in Islington in 2021, the Angelica Bridal team has assisted many dozens of brides seeking modern and feminine wedding gowns in sample sizes from 16 to 28+. We have spent many years listening to brides of different shapes and sizes, providing gowns matched to our customers’ needs and personal styles.

For the voluptuous bride, we often recommend A-Line, Empire Waist, and Mermaid-style dresses. Here are six stunning dresses in these categories.

A-Line Gowns

A-line dresses cinch at the waist and flare out, creating a balanced silhouette that accentuates the waistline, providing a flattering shape for voluptuous brides while offering comfort and elegance.

Here are two of our favourites.

Justin Alexander – Style C900018

Justin Alexander offers a diverse range of styles, silhouettes, and sizes, featuring an array of stunning plus size wedding gowns such as this A-line style dress.

View more dresses by Justin Alexander here.

Stella York – Style C610003

Stella York wedding dresses provide a perfect fit, exceptional quality, and comfort, all while aligning with your distinct style. We love this A-line dress by this label.

View more dresses by Stella York here.

Empire Waist Gowns

Empire waist gowns emphasise the bust with a high waistline just below it, drawing attention upwards while offering a flowing skirt that gracefully drapes over curves, accentuating the upper body and providing a flattering fit for brides of all sizes.

Here are two dresses in this style that we love.

Hera Couture – Style C710001

Each Hera Couture gown is exquisitely crafted to accentuate and flatter, empowering every woman to feel like her most radiant self, regardless of her size. This is very much the case with this stunning empire waist style dress.

View more dresses by Hera Couture here.

Elbeth Gillis – Style C400103

Elbeth Gillis’ Curve Collection presents impeccably contoured gowns that celebrate a woman’s curves, enhancing the bride’s natural radiance. We love this empire waist style dress by this label.

View more dresses by Elbeth Gillis here.

Mermaid Style Gowns

Mermaid dresses hug the body and flare at the knee, accentuating an hourglass figure, celebrating curves, and highlighting the beauty of a plus-size bride’s silhouette, providing both elegance and confidence.

Here are two stunning mermaid-style gowns from our boutique.

Karen Willis Holmes – Style C700001

The Karen Willis Holmes Curve Collection is founded on the belief that every woman’s uniqueness deserves celebration. This mermaid-style wedding gown fully embraces this philosophy.

View more dresses by Karen Willis Holmes.

Madi Lane – Style C300108

Madi Lane gowns are created for those looking for that modern and contemporary feel, combined with timeless sophistication. This beautiful mermaid dress embodies this and is a great choice for the style-conscious voluptuous bride.

View more dresses by Madi Lane.

Inspiration for voluptuous brides

The Angelica Bridal team assists voluptuous brides from across the UK in seeking the perfect gown for their big day. Arrange an appointment at our boutique in London or call to discuss your requirements.

The short wedding dress has surged in popularity again recently, with many brides now considering one or two additional dresses for use outside of the main ceremony, such as their engagement party and the reception part of the wedding day.

Here we answer some of the common questions we are asked in relation to short wedding dresses.

What is a short wedding dress?

A short wedding dress is a dress that typically falls above the knees and is often chosen by brides who wish to have a more relaxed, playful, or modern look for their post-ceremony celebrations. While traditional wedding gowns are typically long and can be cumbersome for dancing and mingling, a shorter dress offers ease of movement and a fun twist to their ceremony dress. These dresses can range from simple and elegant to sparkly and festive, depending on the bride’s personal style.

What styles of short dress are suitable for the engagement party?

For engagement parties, dress styles encompass a variety of looks, ranging from classic to contemporary. A-line dresses provide a universally flattering silhouette, while shift or sheath dresses offer a sleeker, modern vibe. Wrap dresses can give a romantic, feminine touch, while off-shoulder or skater styles add a youthful flair. Lace, floral patterns, or delicate embellishments can lend a celebratory feel. Ultimately, it depends on the formality of your engagement party – cocktail dresses are ideal for semi-formal events, while more casual gatherings might call for simpler, laid-back styles.

What style of short wedding dress is best suited to the reception?

For the wedding reception, the ideal short wedding dress is one that combines style with ease of movement, as you will need to mingle and dance the night away. Cocktail-length dresses, which fall just above the knee, are a popular choice due to their chic yet fun aesthetic. Fit-and-flare or A-line silhouettes can be especially flattering, allowing for movement without restriction. Brides might also consider dresses with less intricate detailing to ensure comfort throughout the evening. The key is selecting a dress that complements the reception’s vibe, whether it’s a glamorous soirée or a relaxed backyard gathering, while allowing you to move freely and confidently.

Short dress styles

Some example short wedding dress styles, available through Angelica Bridal.

Do short wedding dresses suit people of a certain height?

Short wedding dresses can suit individuals of any height. While it’s often believed that shorter dresses are ideal for taller brides, with the right design and fit, they can flatter brides of all statures. Petite brides might find that certain styles, like empire waists or vertical detailing, can elongate their appearance. Meanwhile, taller brides might gravitate toward dresses that emphasise their long legs. The key is in the dress’s proportions, silhouette, and where it hits on the leg. With proper tailoring and attention to detail, a short wedding dress can be a stunning choice for brides of any height.

What sort of accessories are best suited to short wedding dresses?

When accessorising a short wedding dress, the focus often shifts to shoes, as they are prominently displayed. Statement heels or embellished flats can elevate the outfit. Jewellery choices can vary based on the dress’s neckline and sleeve length; for example, a strapless dress might pair well with a bold necklace, while a higher neckline could be complemented by drop earrings. Hair accessories, such as tiaras, hairpins, or floral crowns, add a touch of romance. Depending on the dress’s style and the bride’s preference, a sash or a belt can accentuate the waist. The key is to balance statement pieces with subtler details to complement, not overshadow, the dress.

Can you help me find the perfect short wedding dress?

Absolutely, yes, we can! Whether you’re thinking of a short wedding dress for your engagement party, the reception, or the dance, we can help you find a style that’s perfect just for you. Get in touch with our friendly London team for further advice or to book an appointment at our bridal store.

Finding the perfect wedding dress can be a challenge for brides of all shapes and sizes. While finding the right dress is often about personal style and preference, the perfect gown should also highlight your unique body shape. For plus size brides, certain dress styles can enhance your curves and flaunt your figure beautifully. Here we take a closer look at the styles our team often recommend to customers at our Curve store in Islington.

Ballgown Style Wedding Dresses

Ballgown wedding dresses are characterised by a fitted bodice and a dramatically full skirt that flares out at the waist. This iconic style is perfect for brides who dream of a fairy tale wedding. For plus size brides, a ballgown style can be exceptionally flattering as it cinches in at the smallest part of the waist and cascades outwards, creating a beautiful hourglass silhouette. The voluminous skirt helps balance out the proportions of the body, and it also provides the option of choosing a gown with a dramatic train.

This stunning ballgown design is by Madi Lane.

View more gowns by this designer here.

A-Line Style Wedding Dresses

An A-line wedding dress, named for the shape it creates, is fitted at the top and gradually flares out from the waist, resembling the shape of the letter ‘A’. This style is universally flattering and is a superb choice for plus size brides. It cinches at the waist and flares gracefully to the ground, which creates a streamlined silhouette. A-line gowns can also be customised with various necklines, sleeves, and embellishments, allowing each bride to find a design that resonates with her personal style.

This beautiful A-line wedding dress is by Rembo Styling.

View more gowns by this designer here.

Mermaid Style Wedding Dresses

Mermaid wedding dresses, also known as fit-and-flare dresses, are fitted through the bodice and hips and flare out around or just below the knee. This style is ideal for plus size brides who want to highlight their curves. Mermaid gowns accentuate the bust, waist, and hips, which is perfect for those who want to flaunt their figure on their big day. This style is all about confidence and can be customised with different fabrics and embellishments to match the bride’s personal taste.

This sleek mermaid style wedding dress is by Justin Alexander.

View more gowns by this designer here.

Empire Style Wedding Dresses

Empire wedding dresses are defined by a raised waistline that sits just below the bust, from which the rest of the dress flows down to the hem. This style can help elongate the body’s appearance, making it an excellent choice for plus size brides. Empire wedding dresses also provide ample coverage and comfort, which can be a bonus for brides who prefer a more modest look. These dresses can be designed with various fabrics and detailing, from lacy sleeves to intricate beading, offering a multitude of options for customisation.

This pretty empire style wedding dress is by Essense of Australia.

View more gowns by this designer here.

Sheath Style Wedding Dresses

Sheath wedding dresses are designed to fall straight down from the neckline to the hem, with little flare out. This style, also known as a column dress, closely follows the body’s natural shape and can create a longer, leaner look. For plus size brides, a sheath dress can be a great option to showcase your curves subtly. This style often features lightweight, flowing fabrics like silk and chiffon, which drape beautifully over the body without adding extra volume. It’s an ideal choice for brides seeking a simple yet elegant look.

This sheath style wedding dress is by Karen Willis Holmes.

View more gowns by this designer here.

Discover more beautiful plus size wedding dress designs

We love helping brides discover different styles of beautiful plus size wedding dresses that will make them feel beautiful and elegant as soon as they try them on. If you can’t see the style of dress you are looking for here, get in touch with our friendly London team for further advice or to book an appointment at our bridal store.

In 2021, Angelica Bridal opened the doors to our Liverpool Road Curve store in Islington, London. The team at Angelica are incredibly proud of this lovingly created boutique that currently boasts dozens of 5-star reviews on Google. The store features an eclectic collection of gowns made using the best silhouettes, modern luxury fabrics, and an inclusive range of sample sizes from size 16 to 26.

Are you currently searching for the perfect curvy wedding dress to make you feel special on your big day? If so, we’ve put together some answers to common questions that we get from brides-to-be. We hope this helps you in your journey to find the perfect, flattering dress.

What is a plus size wedding dress?

Plus-size bridal dresses are wedding dresses designed specifically for brides who wear larger sizes, typically starting at size 16 in the UK (or 12 in the US) and going up. These dresses are designed to fit and flatter curvy women. They come in a variety of styles and designs to suit different tastes and preferences.

What types of wedding dresses are best suited to plus size brides?

There are many different styles of wedding dress that are flattering to plus size women. Whilst it generally depends on your body shape and personal preference, here are some of the popular styles that we frequently recommend:

• A-line wedding dresses – A-line dresses have a fitted bodice and a skirt that gradually flares out, resembling the shape of the letter “A”. This style is universally flattering and can help balance out wider hips.
• Ballgown wedding dresses – Ballgown style dresses have a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt that falls to the floor. This style can help create an hourglass shape and is ideal for those who want a dramatic, fairytale-inspired look.
• Empire wedding dresses – These types of dresses have a high waistline that sits just below the bust, with a flowing, relaxed skirt that skims over the hips and thighs. This style can help elongate the body and is ideal for those who want a comfortable and relaxed fit.
• Mermaid wedding dresses – Mermaid dresses are fitted through the bodice and hips and flare out at the bottom, creating a dramatic, hourglass silhouette. This style is ideal for those who want to show off their curves and create a statement look.
• Sheath wedding dresses – Sheath wedding dresses are fitted through the entire body, with a straight or slightly flared skirt that falls to the floor. This style can help elongate the body and is ideal for those who want a sleek and elegant look.

These are just a few of the styles of dress that we often recommend at Angelica Bridal Curve. Ultimately, it’s important to choose a dress that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful on your special day.

Are there any styles of wedding dress that plus size brides should avoid?

It’s important to note that every bride is different and what might not be suitable for one bride may work perfectly for another. However, here are some general tips on wedding dress styles that may not be as flattering for some plus size brides:

• Extremely fitted dresses – Dresses that are extremely fitted or have a lot of boning may not be as comfortable or flattering for some brides, as they can highlight areas that the bride may not want to draw attention to.
• High-necked dresses – Dresses with high necklines may not be as flattering for some plus size brides, as they can create the appearance of a shorter neck and a wider upper body.
• Dresses with a lot of volume – Dresses with a lot of volume, including some types of ballgown dresses with a lot of layers, may not be as flattering for some curvy brides, as they can add extra bulk to the body and make the bride appear larger.
• Short dresses – Short wedding dresses may not be as flattering for some brides, as they can create the appearance of shorter legs and a wider lower body.

Again, it’s important to state that these are just general tips. Every bride is unique and personal style always plays an important role when choosing a dress.

How can I make sure I don’t look frumpy in my wedding dress?

The Angelica Bridal Curve team take great care in helping you to find a wedding dress that is flattering, comfortable, and makes you look fabulous. However, here are some tips for making sure you don’t look frumpy on your special day.

• Making sure you have the right fit – The key to avoiding a frumpy look is to find a dress that fits well and flatters your body shape. Choose a dress that accentuates your best features and fits well in areas where you may feel less confident.
• Choose a style that suits your body shape – Different dress styles work better for different body shapes, so choose a style that flatters your figure. Our Curve team store can help you choose a style if you are not sure which is best suited to your body shape.
• Don’t be afraid to show some skin – You can still look elegant and modest while showing some skin. Consider dresses with illusion necklines, deep V-necklines, or backless designs that can add some interest and sex appeal without being too revealing.
• Choose the right fabric – Certain fabrics can make a dress look frumpy, so choose fabrics that drape nicely and move with your body, such as chiffon or silk. Again, our team can help you select the right fabrics for you.
• Accessorise strategically – Accessories can make or break an outfit, so choose accessories that complement your dress and flatter your body shape. Avoid oversized accessories that can overwhelm your look.
• Get alterations if necessary – Alterations can make a huge difference in how a dress looks and fits. Make sure to schedule fittings and alterations well in advance of your wedding day to ensure a perfect fit.

Who are the best plus size wedding dress designers?

This is a difficult question to answer as there are so many talented designers offering gowns in many different styles. Visit our plus size wedding dress gallery page to view the designers that we currently stock at our Liverpool Road store.

If you are stuck finding a particular style of dress that you like, or you have any further questions relating to our Curve store, please call our friendly bridal shop team on 020 7226 7823 for advice during our opening hours. We’d be delighted to help you!

In 2021, the Angelica Bridal team opened our Curve store on Liverpool Road in Islington, London. This dedicated plus size bridal gown boutique was created to offer an eclectic collection of gowns made using the best silhouettes, modern luxury fabrics, and an inclusive range of samples in sizes 16 to 26. We have always understood how frustrating it can be when you discover the perfect wedding dress online but realise it does not complement your figure when you try it on. At Curve, we set out to provide an abundance of flattering, curvy wedding dresses to suit every style and personality type. From minimalist and plain to bohemian and intricate lace styles; our flattering plus size dress collection features something for everyone.

To help inspire you, we’ve handpicked some of the most flattering dresses from across our designer collections. Click on the links or the photos below to find out more about the gown designer.

Elbeth Gillis

Elbeth Gillis is internationally known for her bridal creations that use opulent laces and silks sourced from the most prestigious fabric houses. Her gowns for plus size brides offer timeless design and an impeccable, flattering fit, as shown with the example dresses below. See more Elbeth Gillis dresses here.

Madi Lane

Madi Lane gowns are created for those looking for that modern and contemporary feel. This brand’s use of high-quality fabric, delicate appliques, and hand-crafted embellishments are particularly popular with brides looking for a sophisticated curvy wedding dress. See more Madi Lane dresses here.

Karen Willis Holmes

This renowned Australian gown designer provides style and sophistication for brides of all dress sizes, as you can see from the flattering curvy gown styles shown below. See more Karen Willis Holmes dresses here.

All Who Wander

The All Who Wander collection is perfect for any bride who dares to be different! These effortless bohemian silhouette wedding dresses look amazing on curvy brides, as shown in the images below. View more amazing curve dresses by All Who Wander here.

Rembo Styling

If you love the bohemian chic style, you will also love Rembo Styling. This is a brand for dynamic, fashionable women who are willing to take risks. As you can see with the example dresses below, these gowns are both elegant and flattering. See more Rembo Styling dresses here.

Essense of Australia

For brides with attitude, style and spirit, Essense of Australia may be the brand for you. Powerful, bold designs, ideal for curvy figures, characterise this designer’s gowns. See more Essense of Australia dresses here.

Watters

Watters bridal gowns are imaginative, raw, yet refined, and effortlessly stylish. They are a flattering choice for curvy brides, as you can see from the examples below. View more curvy dresses by Watters here.

Adore

Adore’s plus size wedding dresses are focused all enabling brides to be their beautiful selves! Take a look at other stunning curvy dresses by Adore here.

Ask us a question about our curvy wedding dresses

Are you currently searching for a flattering curvy wedding dress for your upcoming wedding? We help many hundreds of brides each year to find the perfect gown to suit their style and personality. If you’re a plus size bride and you’re having trouble finding a particular type of dress to suit your body shape, give our Curve team a call today on 020 7226 7823 or email info@angelicabridal.co.uk.