Stylish dresses to hide a tummy - plus top tips from our fashion experts

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 cocker spaniel, Ghillie.