Race season (and wedding guest season!) is in full swing, which means we're all wanting to feel like our most confident selves, so finding a dress that will make you feel gorgeous without feeling the desire to cover up is a must.
There are so many dress styles around right now that are designed to flatter the tummy area, and the key is often to add an element of distraction to the area, whether that's with ruching or a knot – and there are plenty of belted options too that bring in the waist to create an enhanced shape.
Celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson, who has worked with the likes of Fearne McCann and Kate Ferdinand and has her own podcast called Talk In Wardrobe, has given her top tips on the most flattering options for women, and I've hand-picked the most stylish options around right now so that you don't have to…
- Best wrap / v-neck dress: Boden 'Nicola' Cotton Wrap Dress, £139 / $199
- Tummy skimming: Phase Eight 'Uma' Printed Maxi Dress, £80.10 / $276.50
- Flattering belted dress: NEXT Polka Dot Floral Belted Dress, £59 / $118
- Empire waist dress: Rixo 'Nikolette' Georgette Midi Dress, £241 / $367
How I chose the best tummy flattering dresses
- Style: Whether you're searching for a party dress or a wedding guest outfit, a special occasion look, or a staple dress that you can wear on repeat, I've chosen a range of styles in midi, maxi, and mini designs, so there should be something to suit everyone's taste.
- Inclusivity: I've tried to be as inclusive as possible with my choices, and plenty of the dresses in the list have extended sizes and plus-size options.
- Expert advice: I've selected styles based on expert knowledge, with wrap, knot, ruched, and belted designs.
Wrap style / V-neck
Wrap dresses or v-necks are flattering on all body types as the cinched waist paired with the V-neck design enhances the hips and bust to give a slimming effect. Wrap dresses are a great staple for all year, but they are particularly popular during party season.
Ellis told us: "The wrap dress is an easy go-to. It works for all body types as the v-neck works for smaller and larger chests and can be tied to pull you in at the waist. Bring in a print to work this style into your trends."
Boden 'Nicola' Cotton Wrap Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're searching for a tummy-flattering wrap dress, Boden's 'Nicola' dress is the perfect option. It is the perfect feminine style to pair with glam accessories. What's more, it's 100% cotton and the long, loose sleeves will keep you cool.
Serena Bute London Pink 'Ibiza' Dress
Editor's Note:
Some like to take the focus away from the tummy area and wear dreary colours to fade in the background - but we say 'hell no!'. This dress from Serena Bute London is bold and bright and it features a voluminous silhouette that drapes with ease. Oh, and it has pockets.
Wyse London 'Georgie' Dress
Editor's Note:
Looking for a dress that will see you straight into your sunshine vacation? Wyse London's simple 'Georgie' dress is the one. It has a feminine small V-neck and puff sleeves.
Nadine Merabi 'Annabelle' V-Neck Dress
Editor's Note:
You can't beat a classic black dress, and this chic number features a unique V neck. The full-bodied skirt adds volume and beautiful fluid movement to the piece and the bustier-style bodice has a defined seam for a soft, sweetheart neckline.
Tummy skimming
Tummy skimming dresses are a popular choice when you're conscious of your tummy. The smock works to distract from any lumps and bumps that you may wish to hide but they can also be a bit shapeless. If you're going to opt for a smock, be sure to have some fun with it with bright colour or loud prints and don't go too oversized.
Phase Eight 'Uma' Printed Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
This Phase Eight dress is perfect for a special event. It features a fully pleated midi skirt, frilled cap sleeves, and it's easy to style with matching accessories.
Needle & Thread 'Anais' Sequin Ballerina Dress
Editor's Note:
Trust me when I say this dress works wonders for tummy skimming. I would recommend sizing up on this dress but as someone who gets self conscious about my tummy area, I was pleasantly surprised by this dress. I'm wearing the blue version in this video on my Instagram, and I felt like a princess wearing it.
Karen Millen Tailored Cotton Sateen Halter Full Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This dress is truly stunning and is very chic. The fit and flare skirt on the dress is very chic and the neckline adds a unique point of interest. This would look amazing for a day at the races or an abroad wedding.
Empire waist dresses
The empire waist dress is a great option for a tummy flattering silhouette. Cinches just below the bust, creating a flowing effect over the midsection of the body. This works particularly well for eveningwear.
Rixo 'Nikolette' Georgette Midi Dress
© RixoEditor's Note:
Rixo is a popular choice as an occasion wear brand. It's 1970s-inspired but the contrasting prints bring a dose of bold, maximalism to a timeless shape.
Next Ecru Floral Print Occasion Ruffle V-Neck Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This elegant angel sleeve dress features a floaty flared silhouette with a subtle colourful print and a dreamy silhouette that moves gracefully with every step.
Me+Em Fit + Flare Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Don't be scared of a fit and flare dress, the bold colour of this dress is so chic, and the shape highlights the waist making for a super flattering shape. It also comes in red as well.
Club L London Parina Black Dress
Editor's Note:
The Parina dress is Club L London's classic black midi dress. Designed in a premium scuba crepe, this playful piece features a supportive square neckline and flowing pleated skirt. Ideal for a special occasion.
Belted or cinched in shirt dresses
There are so many shirt dress styles to choose from, but the trick is to find one that drapes in the areas that you feel least comfortable with. It's a timeless style and it's ideal for formal wear and smart daywear. Belted dresses create an hourglass silhouette by highlighting the waist and are a great option for combining comfort and style, you can elevate your figure even further by teaming one with a pair of heels to elongate the legs.
Ellis revealed: "A belt can be your best accessory, whether you add to your shirt dress or opt for a dress that already has a belt."
NEXT Polka Dot Floral Belted Dress
Editor's Note:
One happy shopper reviewed this dress, saying: "Bought for a wedding and it really felt lovely. Very flattering fit and sleeves are really good if you don’t like showing your arms!"
Reiss 'Sloane' Belted Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Could this be the ultimate flattering dress? This dress is all about an easy style but with a cinched fit thanks to the belt. This elegant piece is a standout choice for occasionwear, whether you're attending a party or a wedding.
Aspiga 'Hayden' Printed Cotton Dress
Editor's Note:
Zoom in on this Aspiga dress and try not to swoon. It's guaranteed to flatter every figure. It goes up to a UK size 16 and it features a contrasted waistband for a flattering look.
