Trending Plus Size Formal Dresses for 2025: What’s Hot, What’s Fresh, and What You Need to Try

Hey gorgeous! If you’ve got a formal event on the horizon—or you just love staying on top of what’s hot—then you’re in the right place. We’ve been keeping my eye on the 2025 fashion runways, scrolling through designer drops (and yes, stalking every plus-size red carpet moment), and let us tell you… this is the year for curve-loving, statement-making, seriously stunning plus size formal dresses.

Gone are the days of boring basics and shapeless silhouettes. The plus-size fashion scene is thriving in 2025—and it’s all about bold fabrics, fresh cuts, and celebrating your body in all the best ways. Let’s break down the trends that are absolutely everywhere right now.

💫 1. Satin, Velvet & Sheer—Oh My!

First things first: fabrics are getting the luxe treatment. Fabrics like satin with high shine, lush velvet and sheer fabrics that bring some drama are here.

Especially flattering, yet comfortable are sheer mesh sleeves and illusion necklines—super romantic and just a touch of edgy. Bonus: they let you feel sexy without showing too much.

Style tip: Pair a satin gown with simple, metallic accessories and let the sheen on the fabric shine.

✨ 2. Wrap Dresses Get a Formal Upgrade

Wrap dresses have been our ride-or-die for years—and it’s still just as hot in 2025. Complement the flattering wrap neckline with floor-length, exaggerated sleeves, and sexy thigh-high slits. The best part? That adjustable waist tie is still doing the most to snatch and flatter every curve. Not sure what to choose for that night gala? Trust us and pick plus size evening dresses with a wrap neckline.

Why we love it: It’s timeless, comfy, and serves body-ody-ody every single time.

💥 3. Statement Sleeves & Asymmetric Vibes

Sleeves are officially having a main character moment. From puffed and pleated to bell-shaped and off-the-shoulder, the sleeve game this year is giving fashion drama in the best way. One-shoulder gowns are also making waves—very Grecian goddess meets modern runway.

Pro tip: Let your sleeves shine—keep your accessories minimal and your hair pulled back for full impact.

🎨 4. The 2025 Color Palette is Chef’s Kiss

Sure, we’ll always love a classic black gown—but 2025 is inviting us to step into color. Metallics (especially silver and rose gold) are having a serious moment. Earthy tones like burnt sienna, deep olive, and clay? Also huge. But the real surprise? Soft, dreamy pastels—lavender, sky blue, butter yellow—are being reimagined for eveningwear.

Personal fave: A lavender satin dress with silver heels and a slick bun = effortless ethereal queen.

🔥 5. Cut-Outs & High Slits—Because Confidence is Always On-Trend

This year, plus-size formalwear isn’t just playing it safe—it’s playing to win. Cut-outs around the waist or neckline, open backs, and leg-baring slits are showing up on dresses designed to make you feel amazing. Try a cheongsam dress with sexy thigh high slit for a tradition meets modern look.

Friendly reminder: You don’t have to “earn” the right to wear bold cuts. If you love it, wear it. Period.

🌱 6. Custom, Sustainable, and Curve-Friendly? Yes Please.

One of the most exciting shifts? More brands are embracing made-to-order and extended sizing—not just as an afterthought, but as the main event. Look for indie designers and sustainable labels that offer real sizing variety and made-for-you fits.

Brands we’re watching: 11 Honoré, Hello Curve, Loud Bodies, Selkie (hello, whimsical gowns!), and tons of emerging names bringing real fashion to real bodies.

💖 Final Thoughts

If you take anything from this post, let it be this: 2025 formalwear is all about you—your style, your shape, your moment. Whether you’re into old Hollywood glam, modern minimalist, or romantic and flowy, there’s something out there that’s going to make you feel like the main character (because you are).

So go ahead—book that event, pick that dress, and twirl like no one’s watching (but let’s be real, they definitely are).

Have a fave trend or want help picking a look for an upcoming event? Drop a comment or slide into our DMs—We love playing stylist! 💌

💃 Until next time—stay stylish, stay confident, and wear the dang dress.