Month: November 2024

Stepping into the spotlight for those special moments calls for a dress that fits flawlessly and exudes confidence and style. Plus size special occasion dresses celebrate the beauty of diversity, designed to complement every curve with elegance. From stunning evening gowns to chic cocktail dresses, these garments redefine fashion, proving that style has no size.

Our Top 10 Plus Size Special Occasion Dresses

1. Romanced by Moonlight Glitter A-Line Jersey Gown from Nordstrom – This gown is designed with a fitted bodice and an asymmetrical gathered detail shaping a beautifully draped skirt. Easy to slip on, it highlights a surplice V-neck, three-quarter sleeves, and is lined for comfort.
2. Lena V-Neck High-Low Midi Dress from Lane Bryant – The Lena dress is a curve-loving masterpiece known for its tailored bodice, comfortable woven crepe fabric with forgiving stretch, and flattering flare.
3. Convertible Shoulder Belted Peplum Midi Dress from Nordstrom – This midi dress offers a blend of classy and comfortable style. With stretchy fabric that beautifully drapes, it can be styled on or off the shoulder. The dress features a deep V-neck, long sleeves, and a removable sash for added versatility.
4. Convertible Shoulder Belted Peplum Midi Dress from Nordstrom – This midi dress offers a blend of classy and comfortable style. With stretchy fabric that beautifully drapes, it can be styled on or off the shoulder. The dress features a deep V-neck, long sleeves, and a removable sash for added versatility.
5. Romanced by Moonlight Glitter A-Line Jersey Gown from Nordstrom – This gown is designed with a fitted bodice and an asymmetrical gathered detail shaping a beautifully draped skirt. Easy to slip on, it highlights a surplice V-neck, three-quarter sleeves, and is lined for comfort.
6. Lena V-Neck High-Low Midi Dress from Lane Bryant – The Lena dress is a curve-loving masterpiece known for its tailored bodice, comfortable woven crepe fabric with forgiving stretch, and flattering flare.

Continue reading for more plus-size formal dresses for mature women.

Choosing the perfect plus-size special occasion dress involves a thoughtful approach to accentuate your unique style and enhance your confidence. Read on to discover a simple guide that will help you make the right choice.

How to Choose a Plus Size Special Occasion Dress

Know Your Body Shape

Understand your body shape to highlight your best features. Whether you’re an hourglass, pear, apple, or rectangle, different dress styles complement various body shapes. Choose a silhouette that flatters your curves and makes you feel comfortable.

Consider Neckline and Sleeve Options

Pay attention to neckline and sleeve styles. V-necks and scoop necks elongate the neck, while cap sleeves or three-quarter sleeves can provide extra coverage if desired. Experiment with different options to find what suits you best.

Choose the Right Fabric

Opt for fabrics that not only look stunning but also feel comfortable. Flowy fabrics like chiffon and jersey can be both elegant and forgiving, while structured fabrics like satin can add a touch of sophistication.

Embrace Colors and Prints

Don’t shy away from colors and prints. Dark colors can have a slimming effect, but vibrant hues and prints can also be flattering. Choose patterns that complement your style and the occasion.

Focus on Fit and Tailoring

The right fit is crucial. Look for dresses that cinch at the waist to create definition. Consider alterations if needed to ensure the dress hugs your curves in all the right places.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

Experiment with belts, statement jewelry, or a chic clutch to add a personal touch. Balance is key – don’t overpower the dress with too many accessories.

Prioritize Comfort

Feeling comfortable is essential for confidence. Consider factors like the length of the dress, the ease of movement, and any potential areas of discomfort. A comfortable dress allows you to enjoy the occasion without distractions.

Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Before making a purchase, read reviews from other buyers or seek recommendations. Real experiences can provide insights into the fit, quality, and overall satisfaction with the dress.

Confidence Is Key

Ultimately, choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Your comfort and self-assurance will shine through, making any dress the perfect choice for your special occasion.

15 Plus Size Special Occasion Dresses for Women Over 60

We have curated a collection of plus-size special event dresses that hopefully cater to a wide array of personal tastes.

Alex Evenings Plus Size Surplice Rosettes Dress

The Alex Evenings Plus Size Surplice Rosettes Dress is an elegant option for formal events. This beautiful dress features a surplice bodice that flatters the figure with its wrap-style design, creating a sophisticated silhouette. 

The fabric is adorned with delicate rosettes, adding texture and a romantic touch to the overall look. Its elbow-length sleeves provide just the right amount of coverage, while the fit-and-flare shape enhances curves. 

Perfect for weddings, galas, or special occasions, this dress combines timeless charm with modern comfort, making it a standout choice for plus-size women looking to feel polished and refined. 

MSK Plus Size Sheer-Sleeve Fit & Flare Dress

The MSK Plus Size Sheer-Sleeve Fit & Flare Dress is a chic and versatile piece perfect for various occasions. The dress features a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette that accentuates the waist and creates a graceful, flowing shape. Its sheer long sleeves add a touch of sophistication and subtle elegance while providing lightweight coverage. The simple round neckline and knee-length hem keep the look polished and easy to wear. 

This dress works beautifully for daytime events, evening parties, or even a stylish office look, offering a blend of comfort and effortless style for plus-size women.

CITY CHIC Plus Size Ivanna Maxi Dress

Make a bold statement in the Ivanna Maxi Dress, featuring a captivating V-neckline with a bust tie and cutout detail for a modern twist. 

The full-length puff sleeves bring a touch of vintage charm, adding a soft yet dramatic flair to the design. With a sleek side zip closure, this dress combines contemporary style with timeless elegance, making it the perfect choice for any special occasion.

Convertible Shoulder Belted Peplum Midi Dress from Nordstrom

This midi dress is a perfect blend of classy and comfortable style. Whether worn on or off the shoulder, it features stretchy fabric that beautifully drapes for an elegant look.

The dress slips on easily over the head and showcases a deep V-neck, long sleeves, and a removable sash, adding versatility to its chic design.

Romanced by Moonlight Glitter A-Line Jersey Gown from Nordstrom

This gown features a fitted bodice and an asymmetrical gathered detail that shapes a beautifully draped skirt. It’s easy to slip on over the head and has a surplice V-neck and three-quarter sleeves.

The gown is lined for added comfort and is made from a blend of 96% polyester and 4% spandex, ensuring a glamorous and flattering fit.

Lena V-Neck High-Low Midi Dress from Lane Bryant

Meet the Lena, the dress that earns a million compliments with its iconic tailored bodice, comfortable fabric, and flattering flare. This stylish dress is designed with a V-neck, short sleeves, and convenient pockets. It comes complete with a covered elastic waist, matching self-tie belt, high-low hem, princess seams, and a hidden back zipper.

Made from a soft, comfy woven crepe fabric, the Lena feels like a knit with super-flattering stretch – forgiving in all the right places.

Faux-Wrap Jersey Dress at Lane Bryant

The Faux-Wrap Dress from Lane Bryant is made from soft, stretchy jersey fabric. This dress features a faux-wrap design that creates a slimming silhouette while offering all-day comfort. The V-neckline and waist-defining tie detail enhance the figure, while the knee-length hem keeps the look polished and appropriate for both casual and semi-formal events. 

With its short sleeves and easy-to-wear style, this dress is perfect for everything from workdays to weekend outings, offering a blend of both style and comfort for plus-size women.

Lurex Shimmer V-Neck Maxi Dress at Lane Bryant

With layers of shimmery chiffon, this dress is made for your party circuit this season. Just slip on your favorite heels, and you’re ready to dazzle.

You’ll love the V-neckline, long sleeves with covered elastic, and the tiered skirt that adds a playful touch. The covered elastic waist keeps you comfortable, while the breathable chiffon with Lurex shimmer gives you that perfect glow. Plus, the back zipper with hook-and-eye closure makes it easy to wear. Fully lined for extra comfort and confidence.

Maya Brooke Womens Plus Jacket Dress at JCPenny

The Maya Brooke Women’s Plus Jacket Dress from JCPenney is a sophisticated and versatile option for both formal and semi-formal events. 

This two-piece set features a sleeveless dress paired with a coordinating jacket, offering a polished and put-together look. The dress has a flattering scoop neckline and knee-length hem, while the open-front jacket provides light coverage with 3/4 sleeves and a chic tailored fit. Perfect for weddings, business events, or evening outings, this set combines style and comfort, making it a great wardrobe staple for plus-size women looking for an elegant yet practical ensemble.

R & M Richards Plus Jacket Dress With Removable Necklace

The R & M Richards Plus Jacket Dress with Removable Necklace from JCPenney is a great option for formal occasions. This two-piece set includes a sleeveless dress and a matching jacket, creating a polished and sophisticated look. 

The dress features a flattering knee-length hem and a smooth silhouette, while the coordinating jacket offers light coverage with its 3/4 sleeves and open-front design. 

The included removable necklace adds a touch of sparkle, making accessorizing effortless.

Viva Glam Dress at Avenue

The Viva Glam Dress from Avenue is a show-stopping piece perfect for special occasions. This striking dress features a curve-hugging silhouette with an eye-catching metallic sheen that adds a bold, glamorous touch. 

The V-neckline and fitted bodice create a flattering look, while the asymmetrical hemline adds a modern, fashion-forward twist. Whether for a night out, a party, or any event where you want to stand out, this dress offers a mix of sophistication and drama, designed to make you feel confident and chic.

2-Piece Beaded Jacket Dress at Avenue

The 2-Piece Beaded Jacket Dress from Avenue is a timeless option for formal events or special occasions. This set includes a sleeveless dress with a flattering, flowy silhouette and a matching jacket adorned with delicate beading for a touch of sparkle. 

The open-front jacket features 3/4 sleeves, providing both style and light coverage. Ideal for weddings, galas, or evening events, this ensemble offers a graceful balance of comfort and refined beauty for plus-size women.

Belted Striped Midaxi Shirtdress from Ashley Stewart

This dress from Ashley Stewart is a chic and trendy piece perfect for the fashionista. The shirtdress features a classic button-down front with bold vertical stripes that elongate the figure for a flattering look. The removable belt cinches the waist, accentuating your curves, while the midaxi length adds a modern twist, offering coverage with a sophisticated edge. 

The collared neckline and long sleeves give it a polished, put-together feel. Pair it with your favorite heels or flats for a stylish and confident look.

Mesh Printed Midi Dress with Asymmetrical Hem – Addition Elle

This dress from Addition Elle at Penningtons is a stylish and contemporary choice for various occasions. It features a lightweight mesh fabric with an all-over floral print, offering both comfort and a unique design. 

The asymmetrical hemline adds a modern, flowing element, while the midi length keeps the look versatile and flattering. Its sleeveless design and crew neckline make it perfect for layering or wearing on its own. This dress blends edgy style with elegance, making it an excellent option for both casual and semi-formal events.

Monáe Zebra Print Pocket Flare Dress from Pennington’s

Let your wild side shine in this zebra print flare dress! With elegant bishop sleeves, a stylish neck ribbon, and convenient pockets, this dress is a bold and daring choice.

The dress falls below the knee and is made from 95% polyester and 5% spandex, which is a soft and stretchy fabric that ensures comfort.

Also read, 10 PLUS SIZE DRESSES FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Where do you like to shop for your special occasion plus-size dresses? What style do you prefer? Which one is your favorite on our list? Tell us about it in the comments below.

10 minutes well-spent.

Language profoundly influences how we view aging. The words we use don’t just describe our reality – they shape it. This is particularly true when it comes to how we think about personal development, aging, and our capacity for change. Research increasingly shows that our linguistic choices can profoundly influence our mindset, affecting everything from our cognitive performance to our physical health.

The Language-Mindset Connection

Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck’s groundbreaking research introduced us to the concept of growth and fixed mindsets. Those with a growth mindset believe their abilities can be developed through dedication, learning, and persistence. In contrast, those with a fixed mindset believe their qualities are carved in stone – either you have them, or you don’t. The language patterns associated with each mindset are distinct:

Empowering Language Can Change Your Mindset

The good news is that you can change. The first step is changing your language to change your thoughts. Do away with all or nothing language. Even simply adding “yet” to an otherwise all or nothing statement implies you will accomplish your goal in the future. For example, “I don’t understand technology, so I can’t build a website – yet.” We can cultivate a growth mindset that sees aging as a journey of continuous development and possibility by consciously choosing empowering language.

From Limiting Language to Growth-Oriented Terms

When we use phrases like “over the hill” or “past your prime,” we’re not just describing age; we’re reinforcing a fixed mindset that limits our potential for growth and fulfillment. Even phrases like “aging gracefully” or “well-preserved” can diminish the richness of growing older. Instead of seeing aging as a decline, reframe it as a journey of growth, strength, and vitality.

Seemingly minor language shifts that reflect a more positive, dynamic description of aging can make a big difference in our viewpoint and the viewpoints of others. For example:

• Replace “aging” with “growing older.”
• Swap “slowing down” for “evolving.”
• Instead of “stuck in the past,” use “keepers of wisdom.”
• Instead of “senior citizen,” use “mature adult.”

The Science Behind Language and Aging

Research shows that our words become our reality. Our language and the language of others has a powerful impact on our mindset and how we age.

Positive Perception

Compelling research conducted by Yale gerontologist, Dr. Becca Levy, as detailed in her book Breaking the Age Code, found that people who identify as being younger are physiologically younger than their chronological age. Levy’s work has demonstrated that individuals with more positive age beliefs live on average 7.5 years longer than those with more negative beliefs about aging. Her studies have found that people with positive age perceptions are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, have better cardiovascular function, and experience less cognitive decline as they get older.

Healthier Brains

A study published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that MRI scans of individuals who viewed themselves as younger had healthier brains, with less age-related decline compared to those who felt older. This research underscores the power of mindset in influencing not just how we feel but also how our bodies age at a cellular and neurological level.

Longer Lifespan

Research from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health demonstrates that individuals with a positive outlook on aging tend to live longer, healthier lives.

These findings underscore how our language-influenced mindset can have tangible effects on our aging experience.

The Power of Cultivating a Growth Mindset Through Language

Adopting growth-oriented language can lead to:

• Increased resilience in facing age-related challenges.
• Greater openness to new experiences and learning.
• Improved cognitive function and mental well-being.
• Enhanced physical health through positive lifestyle choices.

My Journey of Language and Mindset Transformation

In my 60s, I chose to reframe my own aging narrative. Instead of saying, “I’m too old to begin a new career,” I embraced the phrase, “I’m excited to go back to school and to apply my life experience to my passion to help women add life to their years.” This shift in language opened the door to:

• Going back to school to learn new skills and information.
• Obtaining Board certification as a health and wellness coach.
• Learning new technology skills (building a website).
• Starting a blog to share knowledge.
• Transitioning from a 40-year legal career to becoming a Board-certified health and wellness coach guiding women in enhancing their wellness and healthspan so they can live their best lives after 55.

By consciously changing my language, I transformed my mindset and, consequently, my life’s trajectory. This personal transformation exemplifies what research has long suggested: our words have the power to either constrain or expand our perceived possibilities.

How You Can Flip Your Aging Script

Journal Your Language

Spend a week noting the age-related language you use. Are your words empowering or limiting?

Create New Narratives

Develop alternative phrases that support growth and possibility rather than limitation.

Community Impact

Notice how age-related language is used in your community and by your friends and family. Initiate conversations about more empowering alternatives.

Embracing Growth-Oriented Language at Any Age

It’s never too late to flip the script on aging. The language we use about aging and growth isn’t just semantic window dressing – it’s a powerful tool that can influence our health outcomes and determine our potential for growth and development. By consciously choosing growth-oriented language – particularly around aging – we can create more empowering narratives that support our continued development throughout life. The words we choose today literally help create the reality we’ll live tomorrow.

Reflection Questions:

What phrases do you commonly use to describe aging? How might these influence your mindset? What growth-oriented alternatives can you identify? How might adopting more empowering language change your approach to new challenges or opportunities?

Hurry! That’s a 90 percent discount.

There is something quite special about falling in love when you are a little older, maybe because we didn’t see it coming! Some of my friends use internet dating to find ‘the one’, but I am not so sure I would ever try it. I find it a little black-and-white and somewhat contrived. As a writer, I love observing people’s subtle nuances, and how they interact with others. However, I have heard of success stories, so perhaps don’t knock it till you try it :).

Body Language

I much prefer to physically be with someone. I like seeing their mannerisms, the way they move their body, the look in their eyes, how they react to situations. Hearing the pitch and tone of their voice, as well as the words they use is important to me. Even in this day of feminism, I love a man to open doors for me and make me feel I am the only one in the room. Is that outdated? 

The Bit in the Middle

For me the best bit is the bit in the middle. When you first find yourself thinking about someone, without really knowing why. You are not too sure of your feelings… or theirs. It could all be over in an instant, but they may become the love of your life! You want to hurry up and find out, but, in a way, you love the long, drawn-out, will-it-won’t-it. I love the butterflies that fly around in my tummy when I see the person in question, and the daydreaming that seems to take over my life!

Would You Want to Fall in Love Again?

For me, I am not sure if I even want to fall in love again, although I am not sure if we have that option. Yes, it is a wonderful feeling, something like no other, but even after a 35-year relationship, I can’t help feeling a bit of a failure that it ended, or worry I would take forward my trust issues into any other relationship.

I have also built a wonderful life for myself where I am free to be me, and I have to say, I really like it. I do pretty much what I want, when I want. It doesn’t matter if dinner is at 6.00pm, or midnight. No-one cares if I am up all night, lay in bed all morning or write an article at 3.00 am. I guess it would have to be a very special person for me to fall in love with, but an even more special one to fall in love with me!

Companionship or Passion?

Some people are looking for companionship and would be happy to find someone to spend time with and share life together. And I truly get this. One of the things I have missed while travelling is having someone with whom to share special moments.

But for me it would have to be true passion, someone to laugh and cry with. Someone to hold my hand and make me feel safe and special. A person I looked forward to seeing as soon as I opened my eyes each morning, after spending the night snuggled up together. I love that feeling of intimacy between two people, that is yours and yours alone.

Looking for Love?

So, I won’t be internet dating or walking down the food aisles anytime soon. I am loving my life just the way it is. But ‘sliding doors’ moments can happen at any time in our lives, and we never know when love might be hiding behind one of them.

I guess, in a way, that is the exciting bit!

Please Join the Conversation:

Would you like to fall in love again? Have you? What’s more important to you: companionship or passion?