On the hunt for new stylish dresses to hide a tummy, but not sure where to start? We have rounded up some hero buys as well as top hints and tricks from the experts to help you find some on-trend and figure-flattering frocks. Many women find it hard to shift that stubborn weight from their middle, but some savvy shopping tips and styling ideas will have you looking and feeling your best.
No matter what your shape and size, we can all feel a little self-conscious sometimes, and if your problem area is your tummy, finding clothes to hide any lumps and bumps can be a tricky task. Learning some simple styling tricks can make all the difference when it comes to hitting the shops and adding to your capsule wardrobe, and it will make you feel more sure of what to look for right now, and for years to come.
Before we get into the technical stuff, the most important thing to remember, is that a not-so-perfect midsection (or any other body hang-ups) shouldn’t get you down too much, so try not to let body worries affect your outfit and general personal style. Don’t hide away - embrace your body and celebrate it!
We would always recommend trying something completely new occasionally too - don't get yourself stuck in a sartorial rut and go for the safe option every time. Be brave and try something different, as you might just discover a dress shape that you really love and that flatters your figure.
The best styles of dresses to hide a tummy
Whether you’re looking for a special occasion dress or something a little more relaxed for the weekend, we have rounded-up some of the most stylish dresses to hide a tummy, as well as plenty of expert tips to help you shop and get dressed with confidence.
Wrap Dresses
Universally flattering, a wrap front dress is a total fashion failsafe for all shapes and sizes. The cross-over front will pull you in at your waist, and wrap shapes often have a tie sash or knot to one side which cleverly draws attention away from your stomach. As well as being tummy-flattering, the deep v-neckline on a wrap dress will suit bigger busts or give smaller chests a boost too.
Yumi Ombre Sequin Dress at John Lewis
RRP: £85 | No longer reserved just for the festive season, sequins have made the move from Christmas party to all-year fashion statement. Wear this heavily embellished number with simple heels for a summer wedding.
Mango Anna Wrap Midi Dress
RRP: £55 | This simple yet seriously chic dress can easily be styled up with stilettos for date night or given a weekend spin with your best white trainers and a denim jacket. The tie-waist will flatter your middle nicely.
TU at Sainsbury's Navy Linen Blend Wrap Dress
RRP: £28 | Linen is a great choice for warm weather as it's natural and breathable, so you’ll feel comfortable all day. Ideal for building an over 50s capsule wardrobe, team this short-sleeved shirt dress with chunky sandals and a crossbody bag.
Empire Line Dresses
Empire line dresses are fitted around the shoulders and top, and then flare out from just below the bust, making them a wise choice for anybody feeling worried about their tummy. The fit-and-flare shape will draw attention to your slimmest point and then the looser skirt will skim over any problem areas without swamping you in fabric.
Sign up for the woman&home newsletter
Sign up to our free daily email for the latest royal and entertainment news, interesting opinion, expert advice on styling and beauty trends, and no-nonsense guides to the health and wellness questions you want answered.
Roman Pink Zig Zag Print Tiered Hem Dress
RRP: £45 | As well as falling loosely over your tummy, this printed frock also has floaty sleeves to cover up any upper arm issues without feeling restricting to wear. It’s a total must-have for a summer of fun!
Monsoon Tatum Floral Tea Dress
RRP: £80 | This pretty ditsy floral design has an elegant and vintage feel to it that could easily work for both day or night. The waistline sits just under the bust and then the swishy skirt skims over hips to create a smooth and streamlined shape.
Simply Be Spot Print Tiered Plisse Maxi Dress
RRP: £51 | The twisted front of this empire-line midi makes it even more flattering, as the gathered fabric at the front will cover any stubborn lumps. The polka dot print is a total classic and will feel just as a fresh for years to come.
Belted Dresses
A great way to make your tummy appear smaller is by pulling your middle in with a belted detail. Wider belts will work wonders to cinch-in your tummy for an instant hour-glass silhouette, and if you opt for one in a matching colour to your dress it be even more flattering on your midsection.
Karen Millen Plus Sized Structured Crepe Dress
RRP: £219 | This structured design is from the brand’s plus-size range and is designed to really accentuate and flatter curves. The combination of a smart belted waist and pleated skirt will leave your shape looking amazing.
Zara Printed Dress With Jute Belt
RRP: £49.99 | Your friends will all be convinced that you’ve splashed out on a designer frock when they see you in this gorgeous shirt dress. The luxe-looking print combined with a woven wide belt ticks all the fashion boxes.
Crew Belted Linen Shirt Dress
RRP: £89 | If you're wondering what colour suits me? this bold blue is a great place to start. The block colour of this belted, preppy, linen dress means that it can be styled in a multitude of ways. Buddy up with chunky gold jewels for a glam spin.
Illusion Dresses
A cleverly placed seam, contrast colour or panel can completely transform how your figure looks. An illusion dress not only disguises any insecurities, but can add curves on straighter body shapes too. Vertical lines will attract attention and create the appearance of a narrower silhouette, which in turn will flatter your tummy.
Boden Phillipa Ponte Midi Dress
RRP: £110 | Make a statement with colour in this brilliantly bold pink and red number. The well-placed contrast band at the waist and the central vertical stripe will make your frame seem smaller and taller.
Jigsaw Linen Sleeveless Dress
RRP: £175 | The black contrasting seam details on this midi dress add the appearance of curves and a smaller waist without being OTT. The simple design will look great with strappy heels and a simple clutch bag.
Hobbs Claudia Pleated Fit and Flare Dress
RRP: £189 | As well as vertical panels working to draw the eye in, the darker waist band on this pleated dress will make your middle look a lot smaller. The result? A seriously flattering dress that will get you noticed for all the right reasons.
Ruched Dresses
Ruched areas across the front and sides of your dress can work wonders to cover up any lumps while adding extra style points to your outfit. Subtle pleating details can also add the illusion of curves to your waist and hips for the most flattering finish.
Lipsy Ruched Front Keyhole Dress
RRP: £72 | The cleverly placed gathered line at the middle of this dress is seriously flattering without feeling restricting to wear. Team it with classic gold accessories for a pretty occasion-ready get-up.
Karen Millen Ruched Front Crepe Midi Dress
RRP: £129 | Just a hint of pintuck ruching detailing at the front of this eye-catching piece will subtly create shape and hide any problem areas, while making a statement with colour! Zesty lime shades are big news right now!
Coast Ruched Crepe Dress
RRP: £119 | The ruching on this frock spans all along one side to accentuate natural curves or create them on a sportier figure. The gentle gathered fabric will skim over a tummy nicely to leave you looking and feeling fantastic.
Trapeze Dresses
The light and airy shape of a trapeze dress makes it super easy and comfortable to wear, and despite the name, it doesn’t have to be huge and tent-like either. The cut doesn’t cling to your body, so it will drape over a bigger midsection or curvier hips nicely. Opt for trapeze dresses that are slightly fitted across the shoulders and upper chest to add some definition, and look for shorter lengths to avoid looking swamped in fabric.
Phase Eight Sheila Linen Trapeze Open Back Dress
RRP: £89 | This sunshine bright swing dress is an easy breezy option for the sunny months. Team it with chunky sandals and oversized sunglasses and you’ll be all set for a stylish summer!
COS A-line Sleeveless Mini Dress
RRP: £85 | The shorter length of this one balances out the wider trapeze shape, and makes it a wise choice for petite frames. Style it with patterned ballet pumps and a slouchy handbag for daytime cool.
Burgs Cotton Rich Floral V Neck Swing Dress
RRP: £48 | This swishy patterned shirt dress has a boho vibe that would look great with cowboy boots and a hat for festival season. Don’t fancy dancing around in a field? Simply pop on a pair of brown strappy sandals a satchel bag for a pretty weekend combo.
Printed Dresses
Don’t shy away from a bold print. A big and busy pattern can act like wardrobe camouflage to detract attention away from your tummy – and all while making a fashion statement! Hero prints like polka dots and florals are a wise investment, as they are a total classic and work well for any age and style.
Mint Velvet Brown Stripe Halter Dress
RRP: £139 | Graphic stripes may seem daunting but the smart placement of the lines of this one, will detract attention away from any problem areas while creating the illusion of a slimmer silhouette.
Oliver Bonas Pink and Orange Tropical Mini Shirt Dress
RRP: £75 | Channel some serious holiday vibes into your wardrobe with this tropical print mini dress. The oversized petals and mixed panels will disguise a tummy beautifully. Finish this frock off with mules for a low key feel.
Nobody’s Child Multi Flower Helena Dress
RRP: £65 | This bright and playful take on blooms will make a chic choice for a wedding or a day at the races. Team it with a colour pop clutch bag and heels and you’ll definitely earn yourself the title of best dressed guest!
Gathered Waist Dresses
Dresses with a gathered waist not only draw you in for a slimmed down silhouette but are super comfy to wear, thanks to the stretchy middle. An elasticated waist detail or a shirred top half will add shape and definition to an otherwise loose dress, and the gathered fabric detailing around the band cleverly disguises any insecurities around your stomach
Albaray Waisted V Neck Dress
RRP: £99 | This do-it-all dress can easily be styled up with heeled boots and a top-handle bag for a posh brunch, or take it on holiday and wear with simple sandals and a floppy hat. It’s a classic design that has just the right amount of elasticated shape.
M&S Pure cotton Waisted Midi Dress
RRP: £45 | This hero black dress will work with any accessories in your fashion arsenal, making it brilliantly versatile. The loose and swishy shape is balanced out with a gathered waist band to cinch you in without being clingy.
Yours Black Rainbow Floral Shirred Midaxi Dress
RRP: £32.99 | A shirred top half of a dress will add hold and definition without being uncomfortable. This cheerful floral design is fitted at the top and then flares out at the waist to hide any lumpy areas. Its available in sizes 14-40 too!
What To Consider When Buying a Dress
- Your Body Shape - Aside from your budget and the occasion you're shopping for, a great starting point is to figure out your body shape. Rather than just focusing on covering your stomach, understanding your natural shape means you can find items that will accentuate and show off your best assets. As well as dresses, figuring out your body type will help you find all kinds of staple pieces, including the best jeans for your body shape. For example, hour glass shapes have a naturally smaller waist, so opting for dresses with details to cinch you in at your middle, will look fantastic. While apple shapes often have a smaller bum and slender legs, so shorter length frocks will be a wardrobe winner. Thinking about your body as a whole, rather than focusing on your tummy will make dress-shopping all the more easy.
- Colours - While we are firm believers that you can where whatever you want to wear, it’s worth keeping in mind that very light clothing tones can make paler skin look a little washed out. Take some time to think what colour suits me, so you can aim for shades that really pop against your skin tone and hair colour. This will add extra wow to your wardrobe while making you feel good.
- Fabrics - Materials are a big thing to consider too – cheaper dresses are often made of synthetic materials like polyester which can feel a little bit sweaty to wear over the summer months and won’t have as much give. Opting for natural based fabrics like cotton and linen when you can, means that you’ll feel more comfortable and your dress will likely last for longer too.
How to style a tummy-hiding dress?
woman&home's Digital Fashion Editor Caroline Parr gives us her top tips for styling your new frock - "When it comes to styling, accessories can really help draw the eye away from your tummy. If it’s a looser style or simple midi dress you're wearing, statement jewellery, head-turning scarves and colour pop bags are all good options to add interest and texture.
On the other hand, if you’re disguising your tummy with details like pleating and ruching, you might want to keep accessories to a minimum and allow the dress to do all the talking.
Shapewear isn’t essential but can give you a confidence boost, particularly for a big occasion like a wedding (and if it’s only for a few hours). Avoid the firmest styles and instead opt for comfortable but smoothing options - they do exist!"
What material is best for hiding a tummy?
Very clingy and stretchy fabrics can make any lumps and bumps look worse, so its best to avoid them if you're worried about your tummy. Instead look for slightly thicker fabrics with some hold and structure - cottons, linens and even denim will all be roomier and wont be as skin-tight. As well as skimming over your wobbly bits, these fabrics will often be more breathable and comfortable to wear.
Caroline Parr
Caroline is Digital Fashion Editor for woman&home, and has been a fashion writer and editor for ten years.
After graduating from the London College of Fashion, she has spent the last decade tracking down and writing about celebrity outfits, covering events ranging from the Met Gala to the King’s Coronation.
She has an encyclopedic knowledge of brands, but always likes to know about new and under the radar labels. She’s originally from Liverpool, and outside of work, her great loves are leopard print and her lively but adorable co*cker spaniel, Ghillie.
