Wondering what to wear to the gala as a plus-size lady? I’ve got you covered!
When it comes to an oh-so-glamourous gala, need I say more, dressing up is definitely a big part of the fun!
From tuxedos to maxi dresses, you will expect an elegant scene for sure.
And guess what, to fully enjoy the grand night, dressing accordingly is key.
Most of cases, black tie attire will be the gala dinner dress code.
Think an evening gown, high heels, and a dainty clutch for ladies and a tuxedo and bowtie for men.
Ahead, I’ve gathered 10 failproof plus size gala outfit ideas together with some styling tricks, enjoy my loves!
1. Velvet dress for a gala
Ladies, to dress for the gala dinner, think of two words – “Show-stopping”.
There’s nothing more glamorous than a velvet dress. The thicker weave and rich texture of velvet just ooze glamour effortlessly and make it perfect for this formal occasion.
Get this ruched velvet dress on Amazon
Since velvet is a thick fabric, it can easily add volume to our frames.
To balance out the heaviness, I’ve handpicked this glamorous velvet dress with a big sleek V-neck.
Also, the inverted V hemline allows you to show a peek at the ankle area, helping you shed down the heaviness of the lower body.
One more tip in picking the velvet dress.
If you want to appear to be taller and slimmer, ALWAYS pick the one with a 3/4 sleeve rather than the full sleeve.
Showing the front arm (which is the thinnest part of the arm), just helps to create the illusion and elongate your figure in the best way.
DISCLAIMER:
The truth is, we are all perfect imperfections.
You want to learn these outfit hacks ONLY if you feel like it but are not pressured by others. Remember, we never have the need to “fix” our bodies!
You don’t have to be pretty like HER, you can be pretty like YOU.
And believe it or not, there’s still NOT ENOUGH plus-size content around Pinterest and other places on the internet …at all.
So ladies, before reading the tips, please help pin the pin below & support plus-size ladies ♥!
2. Plus size formal dress with sleeves
For my feminine ladies out there, a floor-length bodycon dress is your best bet for the gala.
Get this feminine fishtail gown on Amazon
That said, I will highly recommend you go for the fishtail bodycon gown as this particular design work wonders on curvy ladies.
The fishtail just crafts the hourglass shape in the most effortless way. Also, the flamboyant fishtail design also makes your waist appear to be smaller by comparison.
Together with a nice hair up-do and jewelry to elevate the style, this look is a 10/10.
3. Silk & satin dress for gala dinner
If the eternal charm can only be pinned to one look, I’d say the silk and satin dresses.
Featuring the butter-soft hand feel and shimmering texture, throw on a silk dress just to make you feel the most womanly.
Get this satin side slit gown on Amazon
Again, I am picking the satin dress in a strategic way.
I know some ladies are insecure about the thighs, by hey, let’s not forget you can showcase your legs in a lowkey way when you are wearing a side-slit dress.
If you have a chubby face like me, I’d suggest going for the off-shoulder or big V-neckline.
Pin this post and go to my LTK for the dresses later! ❤️
It just makes your face appear to be smaller by comparison – that’s universally flattering.
4. Peplum dress to feel the best
Insecure about the tummy area? Well, you’re definitely not alone.
Yeah we all know going to the gym and clean eating helps but if you want a quick fix for the coming Friday’s gala, a peplum dress is your godsend.
Featuring the extra stripe of fabric gathered around the waist, it just camouflages the belly in the most flattering way.
If you want to look extra forgiving, wearing a statement headband can help draw your eyes upward and make you look taller visually.
5. Embrace the glitter
Who said plus-size ladies can’t wear sequin? Well, think again.
To handle sequin dresses with ease, there are three ways.
First, wear a sparkly dress and high heels with a side slit to shed down the heaviness.
Second, instead of wearing all-over sequins, go for the subtle design. It’s best to have a high waist design instead of a bodycon for better body proportion.
Third, wear a sequin dress with a big neckline – again, it helps to make your face appear to be smaller and shed down the heaviness.
6. Plus size Tuxedo for dapper style
For the ladies who gravitate towards pants, guess what, embrace the dapper style and wear the women’s tuxedo to exude the most confident self!
Need I say more? You’re sure to turn heads babe.
7. Classy cape dress for a gala
For a sophisticated and high-fashion look, consider wearing a flowy cape dress.
Get the cape dress on Amazon
While a cape dress can easily look bulky, this sheer one just works wonders.
The sheer cape camouflages the upper arms in the most elegant way.
And the asymmetrical poncho just draws eyes vertically – making the dress super forgiving.
Together with a dainty clutch, this gala look is perfect.
8. Bolero jacket for formal events
If you are wearing a sleeveless dress and you’re concerned about the upper arms area, throw on a bolero jacket!
As for me, I always prefer wearing a bolero jacket as it’s so lightweight and classy for formal occasions.
As a petite girl, I am obsessed with the cropped bolero jacket. It just makes me feel so much more pulled together.
9. What bag to wear to a gala
So you’ve settled on the right dress, it’s time to pick the right bag!
For a formal occasion like a gala, I highly suggest you only bring the essentials and go for a red-carpet-worthy clutch to finish off the look.
While a designer shoulder bag can look amazing as well, I feel like a clutch will be a more appropriate choice with the gown.
PRO TIP:
When you are wearing a bright hue dress, always bring a neutral shade clutch (say black or royal blue) and vice versa.
This is so random… BUT
hey ladies, why not quickly do an affirmation and feel instantly better?
This new year, I’m trying not only to share fashion tips but come up with ways to instill body positivity in all women who are reading my articles – aka YOU!
Instead of just reading it, say it loud or murmur the quotes (if you are in public) to maximize the effect.
Ready? Here we go.
I love my body. She is my forever home and sanctuary.
Sassy isn’t a shape, it’s an attitude.
Work out because I love my body – not because I hate it.
I can love myself and change my body at the same time. No guilt about that.
It is completely normal to have tummy rolls. I come to realize that social media isn’t showing the reality… at all.
My happiest moments in life had nothing to do with the way my body looked.
I don’t have to be pretty like her, I can be pretty like …ME.
I AM perfect imperfection.
What are your thoughts on that? I hope that makes you feel better (as you deserved).
Please help me pass the body positivity message in your community. #womenhelpwomen
Alright, now keep on reading!
10. Hairstyle for the gala event
Last but not least, the hairstyle for the gala event.
As the saying goes “The right hairstyle can make a plain woman beautiful & a beautiful woman unforgettable.”
Invest a good 20 minutes for a nice hair updo ladies – it’s so worth it.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
So there you go – the 10 outfit ideas if you are wondering what to wear to the gala as a plus size.
What are your thoughts on that? I hope you’ve pinned down the right dress! Seriously, when in doubt, OVERDRESS!
Going to the gala is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime moment so make the most out of it and have fun!
Looking for more outfit ideas? Check out my other styling below!
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