Whether you’re heading into the office, meeting friends or shopping for a special occasion, an age appropriate dress is a wardrobe must-have. However, shopping for a flattering frock can feel a little overwhelming – especially if you’re battling with a fluctuating body shape.
Our bodies change all of the time, so if you’re finding yourself feeling less self-conscious about your curves, you are not alone. Luckily, Yours Style Content Editor Cigdem Tanrioglu is on hand to help. “I spend my days styling women of all body shapes and sizes, and I must admit that many women complain about their stomach. It doesn’t matter if you have a pear body shape or an apple one, hormonal changes, bloating and certain health conditions can play havoc with your body and confidence. And while I’m a huge advocate for body positivity, our outfits can often boost our confidence or have the complete opposite effect” says Cigdem.
The best tummy-flattering dresses at a glance:
Best dress under £30: Blue Vanilla Curve Tie Neck Leopard Print Smock Dress –buy now at Wallis
Best dress with long sleeves: Whistles Alex Stripe Shirt Dress – buy now at John Lewis
Best curve-size dress: Quiz Curve Knot Front Midi Dress – buy now at Wallis
Want to know how to shop for dresses to camouflage your stomach? You’re in luck as Cigdem has given us the low-down on everything you need to remember when adding frocks to your shopping basket.
The best tummy-flattering dresses
Smock dresses
If you’re in need of a bloat-friendly frock then look no further than the humble smock dress. “A smock style is fitted at the top, and then will gently flow without a defined waistline. Not only does this create plenty of space around your waistline, but it also creates the illusion of long legs” advises Cigdem. “The downside of this floaty frock design, is they can feel a little shapeless so try opting for a fun print or bold colours to bring your outfit to life.”
Best denim dress
M&SMarks & Spencer
Denim is a huge trend right now and, thanks to this fabulous frock, it couldn’t be easier to wear. Featuring stylish puff sleeves, which are great for providing some upper arm coverage, this smock-style frock has been praised by shoppers for its versatility, with one stating it can be worn for all seasons.
Furthermore, shoppers have been loving the soft-to-touch denim fabric, which brings a little comfort to your casual look. And if all of that wasn’t enough, it even features pockets so you can keep your phone nearby at all times. Team with ankle boots and a trendy trench coat throughout autumn and swap to trainers next spring.
Pros
- Versatile design works all year round
- Features pockets
- Made with 100% Organic cotton
- Machine washable
Cons
- The tie detail back may be difficult for some to reach.
If you’re going to be seen in any print this autumn, it has got to be leopard print. This wild motif has had a huge comeback this year, and it couldn’t be easier to wear thanks to this floaty frock. Featuring ¾ length sleeves for coverage and warmth, this on-trend find offers a loose fit that we think is brilliant for weekends and evenings out. Featuring a V-neckline. it is suitable for those with a bigger bust, while the tie-up neck detail allows you to experiment with your look.
The knee-length design will also help to make legs look longer, while the tummy-skimming design will disguise any lumps and bumps you’re worried about. Pair with knee high boots, sheer tights and a colour pop bag for a truly stunning autumnal ensemble.
Pros
- Made with 100% viscose to keep you feeling cool
- Features ¾ sleeves for coverage
- Features adjustable necktie detailing which can be worn to your liking
- On-trend print
- Excellent price point
Cons
- Shorter length may not be suitable for everyone
- Print may feel a little daring for some women
Shirt Dresses
Loved by the likes of Alison Hammond, shirt dresses are brilliant for boosting your body confidence. ”A button-up shirt dress works because you can adjust the fit to suit your figure. For example, if you’ve got a larger bust then you may want to keep a couple of the top buttons undone, or if you want to create the illusion of an hourglass silhouette, you can add a waist-defining belt” advises Cigdem.
“Best of all, this smart style is seriously versatile. You can easily dress it up or down to suit the occasion," she adds. Now that is what we call a wardrobe winner!
Best printed dress
BodenBoden
If you’re looking for a style that will skim over your stomach, hips and thighs then look no further than Boden’s beautiful offering. Featuring a retro-inspired geometric print, this stunning style offers a fit and flare shape along with a detachable waist-cinching belt to create the illusion of a defined figure.
While shoppers have been raving about the quality of the dress, some have explained that is best suited to those with a smaller bust due to the tight chest area– so if you have larger breasts, try sizing up to get a better fit. Team this seventies style frock with trendy tan boots for a weekend lunch, or court shoes for a day in the office.
Pros
- Made with cotton and modal to keep you cool
- Features detachable belt
- Button up design can be adjusted to your needs
- Features sleeves for extra warmth and coverage
- Machine washable
- Available in petite, regular and tall fits.
Cons
- Buttons may feel fiddly for some
- Unlined so shoppers may require smoothing underwear
Best dress with long sleeves
John LewisJohn Lewis
Fancy a double whammy of figure flattering tricks? Look no further than this bargain buy from Whistles, which not only features a confidence boosting shirt design, but it also offers a vertical stripe pattern, which is known for its ability to create the illusion of a longer, leaner frame. And if all of this wasn’t enough, it comes complete with a waist-cinching belt which can be used to create a more defined waistline.
When we tried this dress, we were impressed with the soft-to-touch fabric and instantly knew it would be become a versatile wardrobe staple that can easily be worn throughout the season. We’re planning on wearing with loafers to the office, heeled sandals for a fancy dinner or even with trainers on the weekend.
Pros
- Designed with a figure flattering stripe pattern
- Features a waist-defining belt
- Currently has over 60% off
- On-trend burgundy colourway
- Features long sleeves
Cons
- Midi length may be too long for petite shoppers
Knot detail dresses
If you prefer something a little more form fitting, then try grabbing yourself a knot detail design. “Clever detailing like ruching and knots are perfect for creating definition where you may be lacking,” explains Cigdem. “Therefore, if these details are placed around the waist the it will create the illusion of a more defined waistline – which is exactly what you want if you’re trying to disguise your stomach.”
Best curve-size dress
WallisWallis
Get ready to wow at your next special occasion in this lush lilac gown. Crafted in a lightweight chiffon, this fancy frock feels oh-so-soft against your skin while it skims, rather than clings, over any lumps and bumps.
We found that the V-neckline was brilliant for both enhancing a smaller bust as well as flattering larger chests. Of course, the standout detail of this frock is the knot design which works to draw the eye-line up to the smallest part of your waist, therefore creating the illusion of a slimmer, more defined waistline. Perfect for pairing with sparkly heels and a clutch, this gorgeous frock is ideal for upcoming special occasions.
Pros
- Available upto size 26
- Features loose angel sleeves for extra coverage
- Has a high placed V-neckline which does not expose too much of your bust
Cons
- Made with polyester, so may not feel as luxurious as other fabrics
Best festive party dress
John LewisJohn Lewis
Festive season is just around the corner, and luckily Ro&Zo have launched the ultimate dress for dancing the night away. Available in this winter’s most coveted berry shade, which is great for pairing with sparkles, faux fur or a red lip for your Christmas party.
In addition, the fully-lined dress features a dramatic knot detail, along with a front-leg split. Not only will this let you show off your pins, but it will also draw the eye-line to the centre of your waistline, therefore creating a streamlined silhouette. And on top of all of that, the beautiful berry buy comes complete with long sleeves for that little bit of extra coverage, so you can look and feel great whilst sipping a glass of wine.
Pros
- Fully lined
- Machine washable
- Available in this season’s must have colour
- Bust-enhancing V-neckline
Cons
- Price point may be high for some shoppers, but it is worth every penny
- Front leg split may feel too daring for some women
Wrap dresses
A clever wrap dress is a figure flattering winner no matter what your body shape. However, they are especially great for defining and flattering your waistline.
“Most wrap dresses feature a V-neckline, which is ideal for pear shaped women. This is because a V-neckline will enhance your bust whilst drawing the eyeline to your upper body,” explains Cigdem. “Wrap dresses will also nip you in at the smallest part of your waist before leading to an A-line skirt, which will elegantly skim over your stomach. Best of all, they will work for every occasion, whether that’s a trip to the office or a night at a festive party.”
Best office-appropriate dress
BodenBoden
Stop the press, we’ve found the ultimate autumn dress and best of all, it is on sale! Made from a viscose-jersey, this super soft frock will drape effortless over your figure, creating a streamlined silhouette, with shoppers rating the frock with 5 stars thanks to its flattering fit.
Shoppers also adored the vibrant retro-inspired print, which works wonders for drawing attention away from any parts of your body you feel less confident about. And the best bit? This fabulous frock comes complete with handy pockets! Pair with court shoes and a blazer for a work-worthy outfit.
Pros
- Features pockets
- Made with viscose to keep you feeling cool
- Bargain price point
- Features adjustable, self-tie belt
- Features sleeves
Cons
- Midi length may be too long for some customers
- Some shoppers may find the print daunting
Best black dress
M&SMarks & Spencer
No wardrobe is complete without an black dress, and this may be the most versatile LBD we’ve ever found. Featuring trendy puff sleeves along with a waist-defining belt, this timeless find will work for almost any occasion, whether it be a party, work or a trip to the local café with friends.
In addition to the classic wrap design, the machine washable frock features a few clever pleats which work to further flatter your figure, as it skims effortless over your stomach. We love the idea of teaming this dress with a fun red bag and lipstick for a romantic dinner.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Classic black design can work for any occasion
- Puff sleeves for extra coverage
Cons
- Made with polyester so may not feel as nice as other fabrics
FAQs
What are the best accessories for camouflaging your stomach?
Let’s face it, no outfit is complete without a few accessories. For those looking for a quick bloat-friendly fix, the emphasis should be on drawing the eye-line away from your mid-section as Cigdem explains. “Statement earrings are great for drawing the eye-line up and towards your face. If you’re a fan of necklaces, try opting for fine, layered necklaces rather than bold pieces which can sometimes make your shoulders look broader than desired.” And it doesn’t stop with your jewellery as Cigdem advises. “Your shoe choicecan make or break your outfit. A pair of heels, even if they are just an inch high, will make you stand straight – this will instantly create a more streamlined silhouette than flat footwear.” So get ready to walk tall with plenty of confidence.
What dresses will emphasise your stomach?
We now know what dresses work best, but which styles should women worried about their mid-section avoid? Well it turns out none, as Cigdem explains. “My top tip for shopping is to have fun with fashion and wear items that leave you feeling confident. If you feel great in your dress, then you will look great too. So while a smock dress may flatter parts of your body you feel self-conscious about, but equally a body-con dress will enhance your figure and really show off your curves.”
“If you’re really worried about your stomach, why not pop on some shapewear? The high street is packed with supportive styles that will help to smooth all sorts of body parts, thus creating a streamlined silhouette for your frocks in an instant – no matter what the frock style is!”
Cigdem Tanrioglu is Yours Style Content Editor. As Your's resistant mid-size expert, she’s usually found scouring the high street for the best feel-good buys, or on a beach obsessing over her horoscope.