If you’re not happy with your tummy area, shopping for dresses might feel overwhelming. Some dresses aren’t the best at hiding a belly, but many styles can effectively camouflage it. We’re here to show you the best dresses to hide your tummy.
No matter if you need a formal dress or a casual day dress that flatters the tummy, we’ve got a variety of options and ideas for you below. While we focus on tummy-flattering dresses, remember that many clothing items can help conceal your tummy.
Make sure to check out our tips on hiding your belly with the right clothes.
Lingerie and Undergarments Matter
First up, the lingerie and undergarments you wear under your dress can make a huge difference. Even the best dresses will look better with the right lingerie. Whether you want comfort for a casual look or are dressing up for a night out, well-fitting bras and panties can create smooth lines under your dress. For special occasions, shapewear can be a game-changer, helping to tuck in your tummy.
Shapewear for Special Occasions
While you might not want to wear shapewear every day, it can be beneficial for special events. Shapewear like Spanx Higher Power Shorts can tuck in your tummy, slim your thighs, and provide a lift for your rear.
Best Dresses to Hide a Tummy
Plenty of dresses that hide the belly well don’t necessarily require shapewear. The key is to choose dresses that skim rather than cling to your body.
Wrap Dress
A wrap dress is universally flattering for most women. It usually has a v-neck and a belt that you can tie to hide a little bit of a tummy. Wrap dresses are available in various colors and patterns, perfect for both casual and more formal settings.
Dresses with Prints
Patterned dresses are fantastic for disguising a belly because the patterns keep the eye moving, distracting from any bulges. High-low hems and graphic patterns are also effective.
Tunic and Legging Combo
Layering is a great way to camouflage your tummy. A flowy tunic or trapeze dress over leggings can hide a belly well. The loose material of the tunic will drape nicely, while well-chosen leggings can help tuck in your tummy.
Vertical Pattern Dresses
Vertical stripes have a slimming effect, making you look taller and drawing attention away from your tummy. Avoid horizontal stripes as they can make you look wider.
Shift Dress
A shift dress made from natural fabric can skim over your midsection without clinging. Shorter shift dresses can also be worn over pants for a stylish look.
Focus on the Neckline
Dresses that draw attention to the neckline and shoulders can take the focus off your tummy. Features like embellishments or statement necklaces work well for this.
Shirt Dress
A shirt dress can hide a belly effectively and can also be worn open like a coat for a layered look. Belting it at the right place can make it more flattering.
Asymmetrical Dresses
Asymmetrical elements in dresses create vertical and diagonal lines, giving a slimming illusion and drawing attention away from the belly.
Empire Waist Dresses
An empire waist dress can be a good choice as it emphasizes the slimmest part of your torso under your bust and skims over the belly.
Frills or Ruffles
Dresses with frills or ruffles can draw attention away from your tummy to other areas like the shoulders or bust.
Draped Dresses
Draped dresses can disguise a tummy nicely by creating folds that distract.
Dresses with Layers
Some dresses come with built-in layers that can help camouflage the belly. Layering with sleeveless vests or cardigans can also be effective.
Trapeze Dresses
Trapeze, or swing-style dresses, skim over the tummy area without clinging.
Puff Sleeve Dresses
Dresses with puff sleeves can draw attention away from the midsection. Just be sure the sleeves end higher up, around the bust area.
Belted Dresses
Try different positions for the belt to find the most flattering one. Belting just below the bust or at the waist can define your silhouette nicely.
Pleated Dresses
Pleated dresses offer vertical lines that can distract from a tummy. They don’t cling and can create a sleek look.
Blouson Dresses
A blouson dress can create the illusion of a smaller waist by draping over the tummy and making your top half look slightly larger.
Formal Dresses
For formal events, choose dresses with structured overlays or flattering cuts to hide the tummy effectively.
Sweater Dresses
In colder weather, sweater dresses in soft, non-clinging knits can be very flattering and warm.
Summer Dresses
For warmer months, choose dresses that are loose and flowy, snug at the top, and wide at the bottom to flatter the tummy area.
Brands to Consider
Some good brands to look out for when choosing tummy-hiding dresses include:
– Alex Evenings
– Eileen Fisher
– Karen Kane
– Boden
– COS
– Massimo Dutti
Finding the right dress can make all the difference in feeling confident and comfortable, no matter your body shape.
