Whether you want to show off your curves or conceal them, there are as many styles of clothing for full-figured women as there are for slimmer ones. Gone are the big, boxy outfits. Full-figured women can wear it all.
There are plenty of flattering dresses for plus size women, for all occasions. You can find dresses for summer, for work, and for more formal functions. With the right dresses, you can accessorize and have variations of outfits that will serve you well and flatter your full figure.
Almost all women love wearing dresses, at least sometimes. They are breezy, and flowing and comfortable. let’s take a closer look at choosing flattering dresses for full figures.
Flattering Dresses for Plus Size Women
Finding dresses or any clothing that you like is challenging, finding pieces that flatter can be even tougher. Here are some styles to try.
A-Line Dress
So named for the shape of the dress, you can taper it at the waist or like a capital A, flaring out from the shoulders, down. For the larger woman, something with a waistline is best.
The A-Line usually doesn’t have pleats or slits, and this can be a skirt, dress, coat. The dress is flattering because it creates the hourglass look and is very feminine. Contour it at the top, pull in at the waist, and then flare out.
Most stiffer and sturdier fabrics work better, to retain the shape of the dress and won’t cling to the body, like softer fabrics.
Corset Style Dress
The corset dress usually refers to the bodice of the dress. This can also have a lace-up back, like a real corset. This type of dress is tight around the upper part of the body, to accentuate the waist and bustline.
These are nice for cinching in the waist, and accenting the hips while lifting the bosom. They may have a stiffer bodice or the shape of the corset. They can have an actual corset used in the top of the dress.
They flatter by giving the impression of a small waist and larger breast. However, they may not be comfortable for all occasions.
Empire Dress
The Empire dress, sometimes referred to as the Empire line, silhouette or waist. These dresses have a cinched waist but just above the waist and below the bustline. It shows off the upper body while it flows down over the waist and hips.
They are very comfortable and flattering, while perfect for those not wishing to draw a lot of attention to the lower part of their bodies. This style of perfect for work, the beach or even a cocktail or evening style dress.
Straight Dress
This style is simple, elegant and comfortable. It is perfect for women whose shoulders are the same measurements as their hips. There is no waistline in the dress, but you can add a belt if you want.
This dress falls straight down from the shoulders, to the waist and then over the hips in the same shape. It’s perfect for all occasions and works in longer or shorter styles.
Convertible Dress
These are perfect for all body types, sizes and all types of occasions. These are convertible because they are wearable in several different ways. They are also known as a wrap or twist dress, as they wrap around the body.
The beauty of these dresses is they are wearable in many different styles by making small adjustments. Off the shoulder, waist, no waist, move the straps or go strapless.
The versatility of these dresses is amazing, and they are perfect for any occasion, wedding or casual, work or the beach. Find more examples of this dress here.
Flare Dress
These dresses are fitted on top, with the skirt flaring out from the waist. It is a great way to emphasize the upper body, accent the waist and the flare keeps going. If the flare is large, it makes the rest of the body look more proportioned.
These also work well with an asymmetrical hemline, to give movement, the look of layers and they help cover and accent your legs. They are perfect for flowing fabrics and work well with casual or evening dresses.
Tips for Plus Size Dresses
There are do’s and don’t for all fashions, but plus-sized women need to be aware of certain aspects of the clothes they wear.
Comfort
Find clothes that are comfortable. This doesn’t mean you can wear sweatpants to work, but you want to find comfort first. These clothes need to be comfortable to sit in, walk in and not bunch up, bind or cut off your circulation.
Often, larger women opt for tighter clothing, thinking it hides their curves, but you need to be able to move and breath in the clothing. If your dress is too tight, your entire evening will be uncomfortable.
Get Dresses That Fit
Avoid the muumuu. They are fine for the beach or around the house, but swimming around inside a dress that is far too large can actually make you look larger. It gives you a ‘pajamas’ look and looks sloppy.
Too small of a dress doesn’t work either, it makes you and everyone else uncomfortable. Find a dress that fits you in the all the right places. A tighter dress will hold everything in, but it’s not for everyone. Women of a certain age should give them a miss.
Show Off your Assets
Buy dresses that accent the areas you want and that will draw attention away from the areas you are less pleased with. There are plenty of dress styles designed for the full-figured woman to flatter and conceal at the same time.
You can find dresses to highlight your best features, like your legs, or your shoulders. The styles of dresses mentioned will help you find the best one for your best assets.
Get The Dress Altered
No one can buy off the rack and have everything fit. It’s important that the dress fit and fit well. When you find a dress you want, have it altered to accent the places you want.
Even a few small adjustments, like taking in the shoulders or lifting the hem can make a world of difference.
Color
One of the biggest mistakes larger women make is with the wrong color. Actually, the wrong patterns. Avoid anything with cartoons, juvenile or infantile characters or depictions.
While black is more slimming, you should be brave with colors and patterns. Great colors are great on anyone, so get creative and dare to wear. A nice, subtle pattern can work well, but avoid dresses in loud patterns all over.
Something with a border or trim, a patterned belt of scarf works better than something loud and taking up too much space on the dress. If it’s too much, it overpowers you and it all people will see.
Accessories
The right pieces can bring an outfit together. Good accessories not only complete and flatter an outfit, but they can draw attention to certain areas. Necklaces, scarves, belts, hats all compliment a great dress.
Don’t forget the proper shoes. A great pair of heels can accent those great calves. Using accessories, like handbags and jewelry allows you to play with color, texture and adds layers to the whole package.
Often, a belt or sash to give yourself a waistline can make a difference. Even without cinching it in, the look of a waist can be slimming and more flattering. Something in a different color or texture will make a nice addition.
Great Fabrics
Find fabrics that will work with the style of dress you want. Some dresses work best with silky, smooth fabric that flows and moves. Other types of dresses need a bit of sturdiness to keep their shape and not cling or move around too much.
Underwear
Great underwear is so important with your great dress. You don’t want to go out in your party dress with your laundry-day bra underneath. Find great support underwear that will hold everything in.
A great foundation of underwear will allow the dress to fit much better and therefore, look better. If the dress is form-fitting, you don’t want unsightly bulges showing underneath.
As a rule of thumb, always wear your best underwear. Even when you do the laundry. Holes, runs, and shot elastic waistbands are never attractive. What are you saving them for?
Curves Ahead
Where you shop is just as important. Find a store that carries clothes for plus sized women. The staff will be knowledgeable and helpful. Always dress age-appropriate and wear your curves with pride.
There is no reason to hide behind ill-fitting, drab clothing. Find all the fabulous and flattering dresses for plus size women and wear them well.
For more on great dresses for summer, keep reading here. There are tips for weddings, accessories and so much more on all your fashion needs.
