The Wedding Guest Edit

Holiday Wedding Guest Dresses That Work For Both the Ceremony and Christmas Parties (Plus Size Edition)

When you’re curvy or plus size, finding the right wedding guest outfit can feel like walking a tightrope. You want something elegant and appropriate for the ceremony, but also fun and festive enough to carry you straight into the holiday party season. The key is choosing silhouettes and fabrics that flatter your shape, celebrate your curves, and feel versatile enough to be restyled again for Christmas gatherings.

Below, I’ve rounded up 10 gorgeous outfits designed specifically with curvy and plus size wedding guests in mind. Each one highlights what makes it flattering, how you can transition it from wedding to holiday, and tips to restyle so you’ll never feel like you’re buying a “wear once” look.


1. Velvet Wrap Maxi Dress in Deep Jewel Tones

Why It Works:
A wrap silhouette is universally flattering for plus size bodies, and in a rich velvet fabric it instantly feels luxurious and special. The adjustable tie waist creates definition while skimming over the tummy and hips, making it both comfortable and curve-enhancing. Jewel tones like sapphire blue, emerald green, or amethyst purple feel seasonal but sophisticated.

Picture This:
At the wedding, you’re seated among glowing candles, your emerald velvet wrap gown catching the warm light as you toast the happy couple. A week later, the same dress makes an entrance at a Christmas cocktail party, paired with a sequined clutch and red lipstick that transforms the look into something bold and festive.

How to Recreate This Look:
Look for plus size velvet wrap gowns that come in full-length or ankle-grazing lengths. Long sleeves or flutter sleeves both work beautifully. Pair with metallic heels and statement earrings for the ceremony. For Christmas, switch to sparkly heels, add a sequined or metallic belt for contrast, and style with a bold holiday clutch.

Love velvet? Shop this gorgeous wrap gown I found that also comes in plus sizes and multiple jewel shades.

Plus size Black woman in emerald velvet wrap dress near a Christmas tree at a holiday wedding.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/01/2025 11:01 pm GMT

Our Christmas Pick
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
10/01/2025 11:01 pm GMT


2. Sequin Fit-and-Flare Midi

Why It Works:
Sequins are holiday perfection, but the trick for plus size is balance. A fit-and-flare cut means the sequins hug just enough through the bodice while the skirt flows away for movement. A V-neckline elongates the neck and flatters the bust without being too revealing. It’s festive, photogenic, and comfortable enough to dance in all night.

Picture This:
At the wedding, you sparkle under twinkling fairy lights, your sequin dress shimmering just enough to feel celebratory without stealing the bride’s spotlight. At a Christmas party, the same dress glitters against the glow of a tree and fireplace, instantly reading “holiday glamour.”

How to Recreate This Look:
Choose sequins in deep jewel tones like burgundy, navy, or forest green. Keep accessories minimal for weddings (nude pumps and a neutral clutch) so the sequins shine. For Christmas, add a faux fur jacket and metallic heels for a bold, party-ready twist.

Obsessed with sparkle? Here’s a similar plus size sequin midi I found that works for both wedding receptions and holiday nights.

Plus size Latina woman in burgundy sequin midi dress under holiday string lights.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/01/2025 11:01 pm GMT


3. Structured Jumpsuit with Wide Legs

Why It Works:
A jumpsuit is the ultimate modern alternative to a dress. Structured versions with wide-leg trousers balance proportions beautifully for curvier bodies. A cinched waist or built-in belt defines your middle, while wide legs elongate your frame. In fabrics like satin or crepe, it feels polished enough for a wedding but can be easily dressed up for Christmas parties.

Picture This:
At the wedding, you glide into the reception in a midnight navy jumpsuit, your heels just peeking from under the wide legs, giving you statuesque confidence. At a holiday cocktail party, you throw on a sparkly blazer, swap your clutch for something metallic, and suddenly it’s a festive showstopper.

How to Recreate This Look:
Go for a solid-color jumpsuit in jewel or neutral tones (navy, plum, emerald, black). Make sure the fabric has structure so it skims rather than clings. Pair with metallic block heels and chandelier earrings for weddings. For Christmas, layer with a sequin jacket or metallic wrap and swap for bolder accessories.

Love a dress alternative? Shop this tailored plus size jumpsuit I found that’s flattering and rewearable.

Plus size South Asian woman in navy wide-leg jumpsuit at holiday wedding reception.


4. Metallic Pleated Midi Skirt with Satin Blouse

Why It Works:
Separates are a great way to maximize your wardrobe. A metallic pleated skirt adds festive drama while the flowy shape flatters curvy hips. Pairing it with a satin blouse (tucked in for waist definition) creates a chic yet comfortable look. Plus, you can wear each piece again and again with different pairings.

Picture This:
At the wedding, your silver pleated skirt shimmers as you move across the dance floor, the satin blouse adding softness and elegance. At Christmas, you restyle the same skirt with a cozy knit sweater or sequined top, proving its versatility.

How to Recreate This Look:
Look for plus size pleated skirts in metallics like silver, gold, or bronze. Balance with a silky blouse tucked in to define your waist. Neutral heels for weddings keep the look polished. For Christmas, pair with ankle boots or sparkly pumps and a bold red lip.

Love separates? Shop this pleated skirt I found that pairs perfectly with blouses or sweaters for endless holiday outfits.

: Plus size Middle Eastern woman in metallic pleated skirt and satin blouse at winter wedding.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/02/2025 12:06 am GMT


5. Off-the-Shoulder A-Line Gown in Navy or Plum

Why It Works:
An off-the-shoulder neckline shows just enough skin while keeping the look elegant. The A-line cut is flattering for plus size, balancing the bust and hips with a defined waist and flowing skirt. Navy and plum are universally flattering colors that feel formal enough for weddings and holiday chic for Christmas.

Picture This:

At the ceremony, you look regal in a plum A-line gown, the off-the-shoulder neckline framing your collarbone perfectly. At Christmas, you add a glittering wrap and sparkling clutch, and suddenly the gown feels like holiday magic.

How to Recreate This Look:
Choose an A-line with supportive bodice structure so it flatters without digging in. Pair with strappy heels and delicate jewelry for the wedding. For Christmas, style with bold earrings, a metallic belt, and maybe even a faux fur stole for a winter wonderland vibe.

Want drama? Shop this stunning off-the-shoulder plus size gown I found that comes in deep jewel tones.

Plus size white woman in plum off-the-shoulder gown at holiday wedding dance floor.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/02/2025 12:08 am GMT


6. High-Neck Emerald Satin Midi with Waist Detail

Why It Works:
A high neckline elongates your figure, while a cinched waist detail creates structure and balance. Satin feels elevated for weddings but also effortlessly festive. Emerald is especially flattering on plus size women with warm or neutral undertones and instantly says “holiday season.”

Picture This:
At the wedding, your emerald satin dress drapes beautifully as you take photos in front of the venue’s twinkling lights. For Christmas, you pair it with bold gold earrings, red lipstick, and a sparkly heel that makes the green pop even more.

How to Recreate This Look:
Opt for midi lengths that allow for heels or ankle boots. Look for ruching or tie details at the waist. At weddings, go for neutral or metallic shoes and understated jewelry. At Christmas, layer with bold statement accessories to elevate the look.

Craving emerald? Shop this satin midi I found that flatters curves and transitions effortlessly.

Plus size Black woman in emerald satin midi dress at a festive holiday wedding reception.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/02/2025 12:08 am GMT


7. Velvet Suit in Burgundy or Black

Why It Works:
A velvet suit is powerful, fashion-forward, and incredibly flattering on curvy women. The structured blazer nips in at the waist, while wide-leg trousers elongate. Burgundy or black in plush velvet makes it feel both timeless and holiday-ready. It’s also one of the most versatile options—you can wear the pieces separately long after the season.

Picture This:
At the wedding, you stride into the reception in your velvet suit, pairing it with a silk camisole and pointed heels. At Christmas, you swap the cami for a sequined top, slip on glittery pumps, and instantly turn it into party glam.

How to Recreate This Look:
Go for a tailored velvet blazer with a single-button closure and wide-leg trousers that drape rather than cling. Pair with heels for added height. For weddings, keep the cami and jewelry understated. For Christmas, add sequins or metallic touches to glam it up.

Love a strong look? Shop this plus size velvet suit I found that you can mix and match all season.

Plus size Latina woman in burgundy velvet suit at a holiday wedding.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/02/2025 01:02 am GMT


8. Shimmering Wrap Top with Black Wide-Leg Trousers

Why It Works:
Not every plus size guest wants a dress. A shimmering wrap top highlights the waist while flattering the bust, and wide-leg trousers balance proportions. It’s chic, comfortable, and perfect for re-styling.

Picture This:
At the wedding, your shimmer top catches the candlelight during dinner, giving you an understated glow. At the Christmas party, the same outfit feels effortless but sparkly enough to match the festive energy.

How to Recreate This Look:
Look for wrap tops in fabrics like lurex, sequins, or satin. Pair with structured black trousers and heeled sandals. For weddings, add pearl earrings and a clutch. For Christmas, switch to bold statement earrings and a sequined bag.

Prefer separates? Shop this plus size shimmer top I found that pairs perfectly with wide-leg trousers.

Plus size Asian woman in shimmer wrap top and wide-leg trousers at holiday wedding.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/02/2025 03:00 pm GMT


9. Tea-Length Tulle Skirt with Sequined Bodice Top

Tulle brings whimsy without being too sweet, and in a tea-length cut it’s flattering and wearable. Pairing it with a sequined bodice-style top makes it festive and balanced for curvier frames. It feels romantic at a wedding and playful for Christmas.

Picture This:
At the wedding, you twirl across the dance floor, your tulle skirt flowing effortlessly. At Christmas, the same look feels like a festive fairy tale under the glow of the tree lights.

How to Recreate This Look:
Opt for a tulle skirt in black, navy, or champagne to keep it versatile. Pair with a sequined or embellished top tucked in for definition. Add strappy heels for weddings. For Christmas, throw on a cropped jacket and metallic pumps.

Want whimsy? Shop this plus size tulle skirt I found that pairs perfectly with sequined tops.

Plus size white woman in navy tulle skirt with sequined top twirling at holiday wedding.

Our Christmas Pick
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10/02/2025 03:01 pm GMT


10. Gold Metallic Kaftan-Inspired Gown with Waist Tie

Why It Works:
Kaftan-style gowns are effortlessly comfortable while still looking glamorous. The waist tie creates shape, while the flowing fabric flatters without clinging. In a gold metallic, it feels luxurious and perfect for both weddings and holiday parties.

Picture This:
At the wedding, your gown glimmers as you float across the reception hall, comfortable but radiant. At Christmas, you restyle with bold red earrings, a clutch, and metallic heels for instant festive magic.

How to Recreate This Look:
Choose a kaftan gown with a cinched waist or belt to avoid a boxy silhouette. Keep shoes simple (gold or nude heels). For Christmas, add a pop of red in your accessories to lean into the holiday spirit.

Want glam without fuss? Shop this plus size metallic gown I found that’s perfect for weddings and parties alike.

plus size Black woman in gold metallic kaftan gown at festive holiday wedding.

Our Christmas Pick
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
10/02/2025 03:01 pm GMT

Final Thoughts

Holiday weddings are the perfect excuse to embrace glamour, and being plus size means you have so many silhouettes, fabrics, and festive details that were made to flatter your curves. From velvet wrap gowns to sequined midis and kaftan-inspired metallics, the key is choosing looks that make you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to celebrate. The best part? Each of these outfits transitions seamlessly from the romance of a wedding ceremony to the sparkle of a Christmas party. So whether you lean toward timeless elegance or bold festive flair, you’ll be stepping into the season looking radiant, stylish, and completely unforgettable.

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