Plus Size Wedding Dresses Cape Town: Top Trends for 2026 Brides

Plus size wedding dresses can be a challenge to find. However, finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, but for many curvy brides it can also feel daunting. The bridal fashion world hasn’t always been inclusive, and it can sometimes feel like the most beautiful designs aren’t made with real women’s bodies in mind. At Molteno Couture in Cape Town, we believe every bride deserves to feel radiant, confident, and celebrated on her wedding day—no matter her size or shape.

Looking ahead to 2026, bridal fashion is becoming more inclusive than ever, with trends that flatter, support, and celebrate plus size brides. Here’s a look at the top wedding dress trends for curvier women and why they’re especially suited for Cape Town weddings.

1. Structured Corsetry & Sculpted Silhouettes

In 2026, corsetry is making a big comeback. For plus size brides, this trend is a gift: structured bodices provide excellent support, define the waist, and create a sculpted silhouette without sacrificing comfort. Modern corsetry uses lightweight boning and flexible fabrics, so brides can move and dance with ease—perfect for Cape Town’s lively wedding celebrations.

2. Flowing A-Line & Empire Waists

A-line and empire waist gowns remain timeless favourites for curvy brides. They skim beautifully over the hips, enhance the bust, and create balance in the figure. In 2026, designers are reimagining these classics with airy chiffons, layered tulle, and Cape-inspired embellishments like floral appliqués that echo the region’s natural beauty. These gowns are ideal for vineyard weddings in Stellenbosch or seaside ceremonies in Camps Bay, as the fabrics move effortlessly in the Cape breeze.

3. Off-the-Shoulder & Statement Sleeves

Romantic off-the-shoulder styles are continuing strong into 2026, and they are especially flattering for fuller busts and curvier frames. They highlight the décolletage while providing coverage on the arms, giving a balanced, feminine look. Paired with dramatic puffed sleeves or soft bishop sleeves, this trend allows brides to express personality and style without feeling overexposed—wonderful for both formal cathedral weddings and relaxed garden ceremonies in Cape Town.

4. High-Quality Stretch Fabrics

Gone are the days of stiff fabrics that restrict movement. Bridal designers are embracing luxurious stretch satins and crepes that mold beautifully to curves while allowing complete freedom to move. These fabrics are ideal for plus size brides who want a figure-hugging silhouette without discomfort. In Cape Town, where weddings often include hours of dancing and celebration, these fabrics ensure brides look glamorous and feel comfortable all day.

5. Colour Play: Ivory, Champagne & Soft Pastels

In 2026, brides are moving away from stark white and embracing softer, more flattering tones. Shades like champagne, blush, and soft gold are particularly gorgeous on curvier women, as they warm the complexion and highlight natural radiance. For Cape Town brides, these tones also complement the city’s golden sunsets, wine country backdrops, and earthy coastal palettes.

6. Customisation & Inclusivity

Perhaps the biggest “trend” for 2026 is not a look but an approach: personalisation. Every bride’s body is different, and the most flattering gown is the one that is made for you. At Molteno Couture, we specialise in designing custom plus size wedding dresses that reflect your unique style and celebrate your body. From Islamic bridal wear with modest detailing to dramatic modern gowns, our inclusive philosophy ensures every Cape Town bride feels seen and beautiful.

Why These Trends Work for Cape Town Brides

Cape Town weddings are unique—they often combine breathtaking scenery with a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. The trends for 2026—flowing fabrics, breathable silhouettes, and supportive structures—are perfectly suited for long days of celebration under the South African sun. Whether you’re saying “I do” on the beach, in a vineyard, or in the heart of the city, these designs will ensure you feel confident, comfortable, and unforgettable.

At Molteno Couture, our mission is to provide plus size wedding dresses in Cape Town that go beyond fashion. We create gowns that empower women, embrace individuality, and make every bride shine. If you’re planning your 2026 wedding, we’d love to welcome you into our studio to begin your journey toward the dress of your dreams.

Plus size wedding
dresses

Designed to Flatter, Empower, and Inspire

At Molteno Couture, we believe that every bride deserves to feel like the most beautiful version of herself on her wedding day—regardless of size. Our carefully designed plus size wedding dresses celebrate curves, enhance natural beauty, and provide the perfect balance of structure, comfort, and romance. From the first fitting to the final twirl on the dance floor, our gowns are created to make you feel confident, glamorous, and unforgettable.

Inclusive Bridal Fashion for Every Body

We know that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and our commitment to inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. Our brides are wonderfully diverse, each with unique style preferences and body shapes. That’s why our plus size wedding dresses are thoughtfully designed to suit every curve—whether you dream of a sleek modern silhouette, a whimsical bohemian gown, or a dramatic ball gown fit for royalty.

At Molteno Couture, we don’t simply scale up smaller patterns to create plus size gowns. We design each piece with the fuller figure in mind from the very beginning, ensuring the perfect proportions, flattering lines, and supportive structure that makes all the difference.

Couture Corsetry for Unmatched Support

The key to the flawless fit of our plus size wedding dresses is our expertly engineered corsetry. Every gown in this range includes carefully constructed internal support to cinch the waist, enhance curves, and give exceptional bust lift and shape—without feeling restrictive. Our boundary-breaking approach allows you to move with ease, whether you’re walking down the aisle, sitting for dinner, or dancing the night away.

Our goal is to create dresses that feel as good as they look. That’s why we use breathable, high-quality fabrics and comfortable linings, so your gown feels soft against your skin while maintaining its beautiful structure throughout your wedding day.

Designed to Highlight Your Best Features

We believe the dress should work for the bride, not the other way around. Our plus size wedding dresses are designed to highlight your favourite features—whether that’s your neckline, your waist, or your shoulders—while creating a balanced, harmonious silhouette. Clever tailoring, strategic seam placement, and luxurious fabrics all work together to enhance your natural beauty and bring out your inner goddess.

Experience You Can Trust

Molteno Couture’s founder and lead designer, Rose, has years of experience creating couture gowns for women of all shapes and sizes. She and her talented team understand the nuances of designing for curves, from choosing the right fabrics to ensuring perfect proportions. With this expertise, our plus size wedding dresses are not only stunning to look at but also incredibly comfortable to wear.

Customisation to Match Your Vision

Your wedding dress should be as unique as your love story. That’s why we offer customisation options for our plus size wedding dresses, allowing you to personalise everything from the neckline and sleeve style to the train length and embellishments. Whether you envision intricate lace detailing, sparkling beadwork, or a minimalist modern design, we’ll work closely with you to bring your vision to life.

A Warm, Supportive Fitting Experience

Shopping for a wedding dress can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re worried about sizing or fit. At Molteno Couture, we’ve created a welcoming and private space where you can try on our plus size wedding dresses with complete comfort and confidence. Our fittings are relaxed, enjoyable, and focused entirely on helping you find the dress that makes you feel radiant.

Begin Your Journey

Your perfect gown is waiting for you. Book your private consultation at Molteno Couture and experience the difference of a dress designed for your shape, style, and personality. With our collection of expertly tailored plus size wedding dresses, you’ll walk down the aisle feeling confident, comfortable, and absolutely unforgettable.

Phenobe

Penelope

Chloe

Cora

molteno couture plus size wedding gown cape town

Pheobe Wedding Dress

Pheobe is a deep V-neck dress with inner structure for bust support. There is an illusion mesh insert in the center front and the sides. The back is open and has a small satin belt.

The skirt is soft and flowing, made using chiffon.

Plus size satin wedding dress | Molteno Couture

Penelope Weddin Dress

Penelope is a stunning corseted wedding dress suitable for all size brides. The corset is draped with satin chiffon and has a soft off the shoulder detail that is elegant and flattering on the arms.

The skirt has a slit and draped to the left.