Last Updated: October 22, 2026
- Quick comparison of online dress stores
- Best for formal and wedding guest dresses: Lulus
- Best for trend variety: ASOS
- Best for plus size dresses: Eloquii and Torrid
- Best for breadth and easy returns: Nordstrom and Macy’s
- Best for everyday value: Old Navy and Target
- Best for timeless basics: Quince and Everlane
- How to choose a dress store
- What to check before you order
- Common mistakes
- Example: comparing two dress orders
- Fabric guide for online dress shopping
- Lengths and hemlines explained
- Frequently Asked Questions
The best online dress stores are the ones that pair a wide size range with clear measurements and easy returns: Lulus and ASOS for event and trend dresses, Eloquii and Torrid for plus sizing, Nordstrom and Macy’s for breadth and free exchanges, Old Navy and Target for everyday value, and Quince and Everlane for simple basics. Choose by occasion and size range first, then by return policy.
Quick comparison of online dress stores
| Store | Best for | Size range (approximate, confirm current chart) | Typical style | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lulus | Weddings, formal, cocktail | XXS to 3X in many styles | Trend-driven event dresses | Some styles sell out of extended sizes |
| ASOS | Trendy and wide variety, including Curve, Petite, Tall | Small to 4X, plus Curve ranges | Fast fashion, mix of brands | Sizing differs by brand; read the fit notes |
| Eloquii | Statement and workwear dresses for plus sizes | 14 to 28 | Bold prints, structured fits | No sizes below 14 |
| Torrid | Plus size casual, party, retro | 10 to 30 | Fit-and-flare, knits, sweater dresses | Frequent sales can make fit comparisons harder |
| Nordstrom | Premium range, designer and brand mix | Wide, varies by brand | Office, event, occasion | Cost varies widely; compare brands |
| Old Navy | Casual dresses, family shopping | XS to 4X and petite or tall | Casual cotton and jersey | Basic fabrics; fewer formal options |
| Quince | Linen, silk and knit basics | Typically XS to XL, some styles larger | Minimal, timeless | Limited event wear |
| Anthropologie | Boho, bridesmaid, vacation | XXS to 3X in many styles | Print-heavy, textured | Cost tends to be higher |
Best for formal and wedding guest dresses: Lulus
Lulus is built around event dressing: cocktail, bridesmaid, formal gowns and wedding-guest looks in a range of lengths. It also tends to publish measurements by size and shows models in several sizes. The trade-off is that the fast turnover of styles means the exact dress you see may not return, so order early for a specific event and confirm the return window.
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View on AmazonBest for trend variety: ASOS
ASOS has a large range, including Curve, Petite, Tall and Maternity, which is helpful if you need a dress in a particular proportion. Since the site carries both its own labels and third-party brands, sizing is not consistent. Read the size guide on each product and check the model’s size and height listed in the description.
Best for plus size dresses: Eloquii and Torrid
Eloquii designs for sizes 14 to 28 with a focus on trend-forward dresses, with bold prints and workwear that works for professional settings. Torrid covers a slightly broader range, usually listed as sizes 10 to 30, and leans into casual, retro, and party styles. Both publish detailed size charts, and their dresses are often cut with plus proportions in mind rather than scaled up from straight sizes. Always compare your bust, waist and hip with the chart, and check whether the dress uses stretch fabric.
Best for breadth and easy returns: Nordstrom and Macy’s
These department stores combine many brands in one cart, with returns that are simple to manage. They are useful when you want to compare brand fit side by side, or if you need an event dress and want options in contemporary, plus, petite and tall departments. Prices vary a lot, so use filters by size and occasion.
Best for everyday value: Old Navy and Target
Old Navy covers casual dresses with a size range commonly reaching 4X, and Target carries house brands with extended sizing. Fabrics are simpler, and fit can differ between lines, but the lower barrier makes them useful for building a wardrobe or trying a new silhouette before spending more.
Best for timeless basics: Quince and Everlane
Quince and Everlane focus on minimal silhouettes in natural or blended fabrics such as linen, cotton and silk-like weaves. They suit someone who wants fewer, longer-lasting pieces instead of trend-led designs. Size ranges are narrower than at plus-focused stores, so confirm the chart before ordering.
How to choose a dress store
| Your situation | Start with | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Wedding guest in 3 weeks | Lulus, Nordstrom | Fast shipping options and a wide event selection |
| Plus size workwear | Eloquii, Torrid | Structured cuts, plus-first sizing |
| Petite or tall | ASOS, Old Navy, Nordstrom | Dedicated fit filters |
| Basics and linen | Quince, Everlane | Simple designs that last |
| Trying many brands in one return | Nordstrom, Macy’s | One cart, one return process |
What to check before you order
- Compare your bust, waist, hip and desired length against the store’s size chart, not just the size label.
- Check fabric content: 3 to 5 percent spandex adds comfort, while pure woven fabric needs a more accurate fit.
- Look for the model’s height and size, which gives a sense of hem length.
- Read the return policy: window length, whether returns are free and whether sale items count.
- Check delivery dates against your event, leaving time for returns or alterations.
Common mistakes
- Ordering one size for an event with no return time.
- Assuming a size in one brand matches another; sizing varies by 1 or 2 sizes.
- Ignoring lining and undergarment needs, especially for light-colored or sheer fabrics.
- Buying final-sale items that need alterations.
Example: comparing two dress orders
Suppose you need a midi dress for a wedding in four weeks. Store A lists a bust of 44 inches and a waist of 38 inches for your size, with free returns within 30 days, while Store B lists a bust of 42 inches with a 14-day window and a return fee. With a 44-inch bust, Store A fits directly, and the longer window leaves room for a second size or tailoring. Store B would require ordering up and might force a rushed alteration. Return terms are part of the real price of a dress, so factor them into the decision alongside the listed price tier.
Fabric guide for online dress shopping
- Jersey and ponte: forgiving, comfortable and wrinkle-resistant, good for work and travel.
- Chiffon and georgette: light and flowy for weddings and warm weather; usually lined, so check for a lining.
- Satin and crepe: elegant and structured, but they show seams and need careful sizing.
- Linen and cotton poplin: breathable, with natural creasing; best for summer.
- Lace: often has stretch panels but can itch; check the lining.
Lengths and hemlines explained
Mini dresses end above the knee, midi dresses sit between the knee and mid-calf, and maxi dresses reach the ankle. Model height matters: a midi on a 5 ft 10 in model may hit mid-calf on her but closer to the ankle if you are 5 ft 3 in. Where the store lists a petite or tall option, use it rather than hemming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which online store has the best dresses for weddings?
Lulus, Nordstrom and Anthropologie are strong starting points because they offer a wide selection for formal, cocktail and guest dresses in many colors and lengths. Always check delivery dates and returns before ordering.
Where can I buy dresses in plus sizes online?
Eloquii, Torrid, Lane Bryant, ASOS Curve, Old Navy and Nordstrom all carry extended sizes. Size ranges differ, so check each store’s current chart.
Are online dress stores good for petite or tall shoppers?
Many offer petite and tall filters, including ASOS, Old Navy and Nordstrom. Check the length measurements in the product details, since lengths vary across brands.
How do I avoid returns when buying a dress online?
Measure yourself, compare with the size chart, check fabric stretch and read customer fit notes. When between sizes, size up if the dress has structure or no stretch.
Do online dress stores offer free returns?
Policies vary. Some offer free returns, others charge a fee or only offer store credit. Read the return page before buying, especially for sale or formal items.
How early should I order a dress for an event?
Order at least three to four weeks before so you have time for shipping, a possible exchange and alterations.
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