tall plus size evening dress inspiration

Next in my series of dresses we’ll look at some brands creating standout options when it comes to plus size formal dresses for tall women. I’ve gone with mostly boutique brands here because when it comes to evening dresses, quality is everything and you deserve a high-quality dress that will fit.

I’ve put together a basic chart for tall, plus size women to help them choose a maxi dress that takes into account things like bigger boobs, belly, and hips when looking for the minimum length you’d want, but the same measurements can apply as a rough guide to a long formal dress. For reference, I’m 6 feet tall, size 18/20 with a 34 inch inseam and I look for a minimum length of 53 inches to get the proper “flow” and drape to your ankle that you want in a maxi dress.

If you’re an infinifat, you may want to add a few inches. Likewise, if you’re more on the slender side of plus size, you could get away with going slightly shorter. Based on other tall plus women I’ve spoken to, and my own experiences, this is a rough guide regarding what lengths to look for:

This collection of tall plus size evening dresses is a combination of boutique and well-known brands, and takes into account reviews as well as my own personal experience to give a balanced account.

red rose floor-length formal dress (etsy)

Sizes up to: 5X
Length: 61”
Shop it: Here

The Etsy seller describes this dress as “extremely long” and the reviewers back this up. It goes to the ground on a woman who’s 5’10”. A super plus woman wearing a 5X said the dress fully covered her chest and belly while still maintaining that flow you look for in an evening dress. This is an absolutely standout option for me.

sanctuarie silver night dress w/shawl

Sizes up to: 6X
Length: 60”
Shop it: Here

I recently stumbled upon this traditional ball gown and thought it stood out as an affordable smart option. The extra long goes up to 60 inches, and they go up to 6X in sizing which makes this one of the more inclusive dresses I’ve seen yet, period.

simply dresses la femme formal mermaid dress

Sizes up to: 22
Length: 60”
Shop it: Here

I’m getting major Disney Princess vibes from this elegant long dress and if you’re like me that’s only a good thing. A dress that will truly fit any tall girl up to a size 22, the contrasting shades of blue on the lace patterns are super glam while the hang of the dress simply states: elegance.

One of my pet peeves about finding dresses is getting them to cover/conceal my bra straps. I particularly love the bra-friendly shoulder straps on this dress in this regard. And A+ for the naming of this one!

Simply Dresses have a number of cute, genuinely tall, plus size formal dresses to choose from here.

city chic leopard maxi dress

Sizes up to: 24
Length: 58″
Shop it: Sold out as of Jan ’23 (will update if this comes back)

As far as evening dresses go, this is a relatively mid-priced option for a more casual dress that is going to feel comfy due to the elasticated cuffs and waistband. I thought the impressive length made it worth including.

The model here is 5’9″ and this dress goes comfortably to her ankle in a size 14/16. I think anyone up to 6 feet tall would find this to be a true maxi fit.

Below, I’ve included a few options that will fit a little shorter than they should, just because they are still dazzling and available in extended sizes.

torrid square-neck skater dress

Sizes up to: 6X
Length: 49”
Shop it: Here

As I mentioned in my round-up of maxi dresses, I’ve worn Torrid dresses for years and at 6 feet tall have never had a problem with their lengths. As you can see in the product picture, the model herself is 5’11” and this dress falls around the mid-calf. One reviewer actually says she wishes this dress was shorter.

The standout feature has to be the square neckline; I love straight or angular stylings on women with curves because the contrast is just awesome. Style with white sneakers or black flats/sandals to complete the edgy skater look.

grace karin sequin glitter v-neck lace dress

Sizes up to: 2X
Length: 43.2”
Shop it: Here

Add some glam to your wedding or formal dress without breaking the bank. There are tons of reviews and photos of this one on the product page. The sequins add just the right amount of glam without being tacky.

This would be suitable for anyone up to 5’10”ish depending on your size, but if you’re taller it will fall well above your knee.

jessica london linen blend v-neck shift dress

Sizes up to: 36
Length: 42” hits mid-knee
Shop it: Here

For a more casual and cool evening dress, slip into this loose v-neck design by Ellos from Jessica London. 42 inches to the mid-knee is going to be more than enough for anyone up to 6 feet tall. I’d style with pale heels or sandals for a summer party.