Spring is here, 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: Fatface 'Marlowe' Ivory Floral Midi Dress, £89 / $190
- Tummy skimming: Phase Eight 'Georgiana' Floral Midi Dress, £169 / $375
- Flattering belted dress: River Island Blue Floral Belted Dress, £39 / $249
- Empire waist dress: Next Red & Pink Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, £39 / $66
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."
Fatface 'Marlowe' Ivory Floral Midi Dress
© FatfaceEditor's Note:
If you're looking to take the focus away from the tummy area, some people prefer to wear print - and lots of it. This dress from Fatface eatures a bold, large-scale floral print with a flattering V-neckline, short sleeves, and a softly gathered waist that flows into an easy, elegant skirt.
Boden 'Ava' Linen Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're searching for a tummy-flattering bright dress for a special occasion, Boden's dress is the perfect option. The dress has buttons so you can wear it buttoned up or unbutton a few for a glimpse of skin. It also features a flattering self-tie belt . It is the perfect feminine style to pair with glam accessories for your next special occasion.
Sister Jane Floral V-Neck 'Opal' Dress
Editor's Note:
Looking for a dress that will see you straight into your sunshine vacation? Sister Jane's 'Opal' dress is the one. It has a feminine V-neck, open back and sculptural sleeves which will make your waist appear smaller.
Phase Eight 'Delicia' Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
You can't beat a floral dress, and this abstract dress features an elegant V neck, sleeveless bodice with a full-bodied maxi skirt that adds volume and beautiful fluid movement to the piece
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 'Georgiana' Floral Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This Phase Eight dress is perfect for a special event. It features a fully pleated midi skirt and asymmetric hem that creates beautiful fluid movement.
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.
Club L London 'Avalon' White Lemon Midi Dress With Pleated Skirt
Editor's Note:
This dress is truly stunning and is very chic. The pleated skirt on the dress doesn't just add detail but it's also a great distraction point. 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.
Next Red & Pink Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This elegant puff sleeve dress features a floaty flared silhouette with a bright print and a dreamy silhouette that moves gracefully with every step.
Rixo 'Kaila' Silk-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.
Me+Em Fit + Flare Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Don't be scared of a fit and flare dress, the contrasting white trims highlight the waist making for a super flattering shape. There's also a matching jacket, too!
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."
River Island Blue Floral Belted Shirt Dress
Editor's Note:
You might be feeling tummy conscious but happy to show off your legs. This Zimmermann-esque dress from River island is just incredible. This will look wonderful with flat shoes or heels. Wear it buttoned up or open to suit the mood.
Lipsy Mint Green Shirt 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.
Karen Millen Tailored Structured Crepe Forever Pleat Belted Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Zoom in on this Karen Millen dress and try not to swoon. It's guaranteed to flatter every figure. It goes up to a UK size 16 and it features an elegant belted waist design.
