Updated on July 10th, 2023 at 04:30 pm

Often women with fuller figures are left with more than unappealing options when it comes to dresses. Curvy women should opt for materials with more structure to hold the shape of the dress and to flatter their curves. So, what is the most flattering dress for plus size? 

From more structured materials to an empire line bust, there is a whole world of dresses for you to choose from in a range of clothing styles. You can find a dress that helps you feel your best. Ensure to emphasize your natural shape, find the right neckline, and choose the correct skirt and you have the makings of the perfect dress!

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How to choose plus-size dresses

  • Enhance Your Shape: You can easily enhance your natural shape by finding the smallest part of your waist and drawing attention to it. Use a chunky belt or other accessories to create the illusion of an hourglass figure to enhance your other assets. 
  • Find The Right Neckline:  Plus-size body shapes often have a more ample chest. A V-shape or square neckline will help draw the eye to your chest and keep attention off other areas. For those with a smaller chest, you may want to try out a scoop or high neckline. This will flatter the chest and allow other areas to come to the forefront.
  • Flowing Or Structured Skirt: While the bust of a dress can have a profound impact on the way a dress looks, the skirt is just as important. A loose, flowing skirt will help camouflage a larger tummy and wider hips. A structured skirt will show off more of the tummy but will help accentuate the bottom and define the waist. A bodycon fit is perfect for this type of style.

What should plus-size women wear to look slimmer?

When shopping for clothing to help minimize your curvaceous figure, there are a few things to consider. Clothes with vertical stripes and chevron patterns will help you appear slimmer. Anything that conceals your stomach will aid in minimizing your tummy as long as it isn’t too tight or too form-fitting in other areas.

As a plus-size woman, you may be tempted to style yourself in loose, ill-fitting clothes in larger sizes to help cover up. This is not a good idea. Finding a dress style that fits you well will help flatter your figure without having to have your body on display.

Plus-size clothing is now being produced in extended sizes, meaning there is a wide range of sizes for everyone. Avoid clothing such as slouchy mom jeans and opt for more of a straight jean fit.

Once you have determined your correct size and are able to find clothing that fits you comfortably, you want to consider the materials.  Due to the fact that they are made from natural fibers, cotton, linen, and polyester are all excellent materials for clothing. You can easily use bright colors and floral prints to add some flare or use dark colors for a slimmer look.

What style of dress suits a big tummy?

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When using your clothing to conceal a big tummy, whether you are trying to figure out how to dress an hour glass figure with a tummy or if you are just a bit larger, an empire line dress is your best friend. No matter the neckline, that cinched-in line under the bust provides the illusion of a higher waistline and highlights your bust size. Allowing the rest of the dress to flow over your tummy. 

Opting for an A-line or fit and flare dress with an empire hem will keep you looking put together while remaining comfortable and relaxed. Wearing a dress with a flowing or skater-style skirt is perfect for a night on the town or as a casual dress to run errands during the day. 

An A-line dress with an empire bust hem is going to look slightly more structured. However, the shape of the skirt will smooth out your curves and glide over your stomach. Perfect for formal events such as casual weddings or even the office. 

How can plus-size women dress professionally?

Although you shouldn’t create a fashion statement when getting dressed for work, you should try. Using neutral hues and avoiding dramatic patterns helps give clothing a polished appearance. The ideal style for the office is the midi dress. You can layer your attire with a cardigan, and you have the ideal look!

Midi dresses are perfect as their hemline is neither too long nor too short. You can easily style them up or down. Keep it simple with a cardigan and casual shoes for a more comfortable feel. A-line or pencil skirts are perfect for the office.

Or dress it up with a well-fitting blazer or denim jacket and nude heels. Keeping your color scheme neutral and sticking to more subtle patterns will give you an air of confidence. Add a pop of color with your accessories and a black dress. Simple and professional. As you will be wearing this outfit all day, ensure it has a looser fit to keep you comfortable. A Wrap dress is an excellent alternative. 

How can I make my stomach look flatter in a dress?

It can be challenging to alter your body’s shape. Always choosing a vertical design is the best course of action. Horizontal patterns create the appearance that your shoulders, stomach, or hips are wider. While vertical designs can give the impression that you are taller and slimmer than you actually are.

Vertical patterns, whether it be a striped or floral dress draws the eye downwards. So long as the bold print goes up and down rather than across, the attention is going to be on the cute pattern and your legs. 

You also want the pattern to be close together. Patterns that are placed further apart can provide the same illusion as a horizontal pattern. Narrower patterns will help draw the eye inwards while keeping it vertical keeps the attention away from your tummy and more on your height. 

Flattering plus-size dress – Conclusion

Finding a dress as a plus-size woman with a curvy figure can seem impossible. From not having your perfect size to the design being rather unappealing and not suiting women’s body shapes. It can seem like the world wants you to stay hidden. We are here to show you that that is not the case. It is time to show off your curves and embrace our curvy bodies. Be sure to check out Extra Large Living for more information!