Hello my gorgeous friends, Emily here! As the air turns crisp and the holiday season approaches, our social calendars begin to fill with special occasions that call for something beyond our everyday wear.
There’s something truly magical about dressing up for fall whether it’s a wedding, a gala, a fancy dinner party, or simply because you deserve to feel extraordinary.
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For curvy women, finding dressy outfits that combine elegance, comfort, and impeccable fit can feel challenging, but I’m here to tell you: you absolutely can look and feel spectacular. This season is all about embracing luxurious fabrics, sophisticated silhouettes, and details that make you feel like the best version of yourself.
I’ve curated 15 plus size dressy fall outfits that celebrate your curves while ensuring you shine at every special event. Let’s create some show-stopping moments together!
Why Fall is the Perfect Season for Dressy Occasions
Fall provides the ideal backdrop for dressing up with its rich color palette and opulent textures that naturally flatter curvy figures:
- Luxe Fabrics: Velvet, satin, sequins, and heavy crepe drape beautifully over curves, offering both comfort and elegance
- Jewel Tones: Deep emerald, royal blue, burgundy, and plum complement all skin tones while creating a sophisticated appearance
- Strategic Coverage: Long sleeves, higher necklines, and longer hemlines provide more coverage while maintaining glamour
- Layer-Friendly: The cooler weather allows for stunning wraps, capes, and jackets that add drama to your look
Your Dressy Fall Style Guide: 15 Elegant Ensembles
These outfits are designed for various formal occasions, from black-tie events to fancy holiday parties.
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I. Evening Glamour
For those nights when you want to make a grand entrance.
1. Velvet Wrap Gown
A floor-length velvet wrap gown in emerald or burgundy is the epitome of fall elegance. The wrap style naturally accentuates your waist while the luxurious fabric drapes beautifully over curves. Pair with statement earrings and sleek heels.
2. Sequin Midi Dress
A fully sequined midi dress catches the light beautifully at evening events. Look for styles with stretch lining for comfort and ruching at the waist for flattering definition. This is your go-to for holiday parties and galas.
3. Off-the-Shouldler Gown
An off-the-shoulder gown with a fit-and-flare silhouette creates a beautiful hourglass shape. The neckline is both romantic and sophisticated, perfect for black-tie weddings or formal dinners.
II. Polished Separates
For creating versatile, rewearable dressy outfits.
4. Silk Blouse & Palazzo Pants
Pair a luxe silk blouse with flowing palazzo pants in a complementary color. The combination of fitted top and wide-leg bottoms creates an elegant, balanced silhouette that’s both comfortable and chic.
5. Beaded Top & Velvet Skirt
A intricately beaded or embroidered top paired with a simple velvet midi skirt allows you to showcase statement details while keeping the look cohesive. This is perfect for cocktail parties and fancy dinners.
6. Tailored Jumpsuit
A wide-leg tailored jumpsuit in a rich fabric like crepe or satin-back crepe offers a modern alternative to dresses. Look for styles with a defined waist and flattering neckline.
III. Cocktail Party Ready
For events that call for something between casual and black-tie.
7. Lace Fit-and-Flare Dress
A lace fit-and-flare dress with three-quarter length sleeves is both festive and appropriate for various fall events. The structured skirt provides beautiful shape while the lace adds texture and romance.
8. Metallic Midi Dress
A metallic jersey or knit midi dress in gold, bronze, or silver offers glamour with comfortable stretch. The fabric moves with you while creating a beautiful shimmer effect.
9. Statement Sleeve Dress
A dress with dramatic sleeves whether bell, bishop, or puff style makes an impact while keeping the rest of the silhouette simple and elegant.
IV. Holiday Party Elegance
For those festive gatherings that call for extra sparkle.
10. Velvet Blazer Dress
A velvet blazer dress combines sophistication with a modern edge. The structured tailoring flatters your figure while the luxurious fabric feels special and seasonal.
11. Sparkly Wrap Dress
A sequin or beaded wrap dress offers the perfect combination of sparkle and figure-flattering design. The V-neckline is universally becoming and adjustable for the perfect fit.
12. Cape Gown
A gown with a detachable cape or built-in capelet adds drama and elegance while providing a bit of warmth for cooler evenings.
V. Sophisticated Dinners & Events
For occasions that call for understated elegance.
13. Crepe Sheath Dress
A structured crepe sheath dress in a jewel tone offers polished sophistication. The fabric has beautiful drape while maintaining its shape, creating a sleek silhouette.
14. Brocade or Jacquard Dress
A dress in rich brocade or jacquard fabric features beautiful texture and pattern that stands out subtly. These fabrics often have enough structure to provide flattering support.
15. Two-Piece Ensemble
A coordinated two-piece set with a fancy top and skirt or pants allows for mixing sizes and creates a custom-fit look that’s both fashionable and comfortable.
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Emily’s Pro Tips for Dressy Fall Style Success
Focus on Fabric Quality
Invest in the best fabrics you can afford. Quality materials like real silk, velvet, and well-made sequined fabrics not only look more expensive but also drape better on curvy figures.
Prioritize Proper Fit
Consider tailoring for your most important pieces. A few adjustments can transform an off-the-rack dress into something that looks custom-made for your body.
Choose the Right Undergarments
The right foundation garments are crucial for creating smooth lines under dressy clothing. Invest in quality shapewear that provides support without discomfort.
Balance Your Proportions
If you’re wearing a voluminous skirt or wide-leg pants, pair it with a more fitted top, and vice versa. This balance creates a more polished and intentional look.
Consider Versatility
Look for pieces you can dress up or down with different accessories and layers. A velvet dress can be worn with boots and a leather jacket for a different occasion, extending its wearability.
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You Deserve to Feel Extraordinary
Remember, beautiful, dressing up isn’t just about the event it’s about honoring yourself and celebrating the incredible woman you are. When you feel confident and radiant in what you’re wearing, that energy shines through and touches everyone around you.
Your turn! Which of these dressy fall outfits made your heart skip a beat? Share your own formal wear tips and favorite special occasion finds with our community over on Pinterest tag us @chicseasonstyle. Let’s inspire each other to shine brightly at every event this season!
