Femme qui a du ventre portant une robe fleurie.

What Dress to Wear When You Have a Belly? 5 Flattering Ideas

Written by: Violette Besson

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Published on

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Last updated on

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Time to read 5 min

We all have those days when we would like to find a well-cut dress that highlights our silhouette while hiding that little rounded belly! Don't panic, there are many styles of dresses that can help you feel beautiful and confident. In this article, we will explore together the best options to choose the perfect dress when you have a belly, with simple and effective tips!

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What dress to hide a round belly?

When it comes to hiding your belly, certain dress cuts are particularly flattering. The empire waist dress is a must-have piece. It cinches just below the bust and then flares out, providing freedom around the belly while highlighting the upper body. A-line dresses are also suitable for this silhouette. With their flared cut, they do not cling to the waist and elongate the figure. The wrap dress, on the other hand, is ideal for concealing a rounded belly. Thanks to its side tie, it creates the illusion of a defined waist and draws attention to the lovely neckline. Opt for flowy and lightweight dresses that fall delicately along the body, without accentuating the areas you prefer to hide. For an evening dress, dark colors like black or navy blue are your allies. They tend to slim and are classic and chic colors. Remember that the goal is to feel comfortable and confident while showcasing your assets! At Les Petits Imprimés, our mission is to help you choose the dress that will best suit your body shape. Visit our website to discover our most popular models!

How to choose a dress when you have a belly?

Choosing the perfect dress when you have a bit of a belly is a real challenge, but it is mainly a question of body shape and cuts. Straight dresses are ideal for those who prefer a simple cut that does not mark the waist. If you want to accentuate your curves, don't hesitate to add a belt to define the waist and create a slender silhouette. The tunic dress is another comfortable and trendy option. It falls freely over the belly while highlighting the legs, especially if worn with high-heeled shoes. For a sexier look, choose a dress with a nice neckline or lace details. Finally, materials also play a crucial role. Favor fluid materials like viscose or jersey, which do not cling to the body and provide a nice drape!

Women with bellies who wear different styles of dresses and outfits.

What materials should be prioritized to hide the belly?

The material of your dress can make all the difference when it comes to hiding the belly. Fluid fabrics like jersey, viscose, or silk glide over the body without marking sensitive areas. They offer unmatched comfort and an elegant drape. Avoid overly shiny materials or rigid fabrics that tend to accentuate shapes. Matte and slightly stretchy materials are your best allies! 


In summary, here are the materials to prioritize when choosing a dress for curvy women:

  • Jersey: comfortable and stretchy;
  • Viscose: fluid and light;
  • Silk: elegant and soft.
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Which styles of dresses are flattering?

Some styles of dresses are particularly suited to highlight your silhouette while camouflaging a round belly:

  • The trapeze dress is perfect for those who want a flared cut that does not cling to the belly. 
  • The empire dress, with its high waist under the bust, creates a fluid line over the rest of the body. 
  • The wrap dress is a versatile option that flatters many body types. It allows you to define the waist while providing enough space at the belly level. 
  • The shirt dress is also trendy and comfortable, with its straight or slightly fitted cut. 

Whether you prefer a long dress that elongates the silhouette or a short dress that showcases your legs, the important thing is to choose a cut that makes you feel comfortable and confident! 

Woman wearing a fitted red dress that smooths the curves.

How to balance the silhouette with a dress?

To balance the silhouette and draw attention to your assets, several tips can be used. First, defining the waist is an excellent way to create a slender silhouette. A fitted dress or simply adding a belt can transform an outfit. Next, V-necklines elongate the neck and highlight the upper body. If you prefer more comfortable cuts, a loose dress can be worn with accessories to structure the whole. Finally, pleated dresses or those with well-placed gathers can also help conceal the belly while adding movement to the outfit.

What colors to choose to slim down?

Colors and patterns play an important role in the overall appearance of your outfit. Dark colors like black, navy blue, or anthracite gray are known to slim the silhouette. Additionally, choose matte colors rather than shiny ones to avoid drawing attention to the belly. Vertical prints can also create an illusion of length, especially on a long dress. Monochrome outfits or solid colors from top to bottom help elongate the silhouette. 


But above all, avoid overly busy patterns or horizontal stripes at the belly level, which can draw attention to that area!

What tips for wearing a dress with a belly?

  • Opt for suitable underwear, like a shaping bodysuit, to smooth the silhouette.
  • Avoid horizontal stripes or patterns placed at the belly level.
  • Choose accessories that draw the eye to the upper body, like a necklace or earrings.
  • Opt for heeled shoes to elongate and refine the silhouette.
  • Above all, have confidence in yourself! Attitude is the key to feeling beautiful in any dress.

On the Les Petits Imprimés website, you can filter each of our collections by cut! Handy for finding the models best suited to your body type, isn't it? 

A question in mind? We have the answer!

Which dresses effectively hide the belly?

Empire waist, trapeze, and wrap dresses are ideal for hiding a round belly while highlighting the upper body. Favor fluid materials like jersey or viscose for more comfort.

What type of dress to choose to refine the silhouette?

To refine the silhouette, opt for fitted dresses, V-necklines, or pleated models. Dark dresses and solid colors are perfect for elongating the silhouette and hiding the belly.

What tips for wearing a dress with a belly?

Focus on fluid materials, avoid horizontal stripes, and favor accessories that draw attention upwards (like a pretty necklace). Good posture and suitable underwear will make all the difference.

Profile picture of Violette Besson: budding web writer.

Violette Besson

Web writer since 2023, Violette deciphers the latest fashion trends and delivers fresh and current ideas for a bold style. 


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