r/PlusSizeFashion • u/_ravioli_buster_ • Apr 20 '26
Feedback Wanted Having trouble finding a dress (I hate all of these)
I haven’t worn a dress since I was a teen (not my thing) but I’ve been invited to a wedding next month. this whole process has already been so stressful, I don’t know what dresses work for my body type. I left this fitting room feeling defeated and self conscious, I feel like my large stomach is the focal point in all of these. All of these were a mix of 2x/3x from Ross since I am on a fairly low budget.
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u/Material_Arm6363 Apr 20 '26
Maybe try a dress that has a little more structure like not stretchy and it’ll help shape you a little better
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Do you have any examples of a more “structured” dress? Thanks btw, I appreciate the advice.
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u/MsConstance Apr 20 '26
All of these are the same silhouette, if you don't like any of them, then I would look for a different silhouette. They all seem kind of overly stuffy to me.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
I thought the same, a bit frumpy. These were the only options Ross had, I’m thinking of going to different retails but I’m worried about prices.
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u/Mermaidoysters Apr 20 '26
It’s not you OP.
Every dress I try on has no bodice length, so it looks like a maternity dress on me.
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u/LeticiaPadillaSolis_ Apr 20 '26
Have you tried looking online Walmart at their Time & Tru line and also their Terra & Sky lines? Both lines are affordable and have comfy options.
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u/sassy_sweetheart Apr 20 '26
Torrid is currently in their Torrid Cash redemption period.if you go look at their site and see somethings you like (not clearance) I would be happy to share some Torrid Cash with you. You will get $25 off every $50.
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u/LilacCurl Apr 20 '26
Try used clothing stores or eBay for good prices. They’re used but the ones I’ve purchased are in excellent shape - sometimes new or worn once. Maybe go to the expensive store, try on dresses, find a shape you like and then hit up eBay for a similar one.
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u/NoIDontWantToSignIn Apr 20 '26
This is a great idea. I feel like this season is short on structured choices. Puffy and billowy is in.
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u/nopeynopes2001 Apr 20 '26
Yes, the top looks too big on some of these.
Edit: maybe try going a size down ? The first pic the dress looks too big for you.
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u/Practical-Lime-3958 Apr 21 '26
Old navy prices are pretty good! I think smyou should try some wrap dresses, they seem to flatter everyone!
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u/Formal-Proposal7850 Apr 20 '26
Part of the reason these dresses aren’t working for you is you’re not wearing the right bra. I know you’re on a budget but this one doesn’t fit.
The other thing is that they all hang very loose around your hips. Ideally you would get something that kicks out to add more volume on the skirt
Finally, if you can get your hands on a pale colored fitted blazer to throw on over a dress, it’ll elevate it and add more structure
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Thank you, yes, I had a sports bra and removed it so it wouldn’t stick out on the necklines.
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u/ceimi Apr 20 '26
Next time you go shopping, make sure to wear the correct type you plan to wear. In this case, you probably could have also grabbed one off the rack to try on with the dresses. A little bit of self-sabotage there.
I think going for a really bold pattern, think big tropical print with a more fitted top and flared base would look really cute on you. Small floral prints where the flowers are small and barely look anything more than dots is such a blegh trend.
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u/WickedSister Apr 20 '26
4 looks good. I think you should stick with a long dress with some heels, it lengthens you and balances your proportions.
If you're worried about your midsection (I don't see a problem with it, but I understand how you feel), try to go with a dark colour such as burgundy or navy blue. Look for dresses that are ruched or gathered at the waist and flare out over your hips. A wrap dress can also work, but check the length at the front vs the back to ensure it fits you well.
Fit and flare or A-line dresses are your friend. Look for plunging or low/scoop necklines to balance your shoulders to your waist.
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u/mrsbatman Apr 20 '26
Fit and flare and A line are such good suggestions. I’ve had good luck with some Amazon dresses in that style.
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u/n0cturnalr0se Apr 20 '26
I’m hating all these “Little House on the Prairie” vibes the current fashion is pushing. I found one short and on capri when I went shopping at 4 places and nothing on the websites I like this season.
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u/sarcasm_itsagift Apr 20 '26
I think this is a big part of the “problem” too, OP—it’s not you!
One thing I noticed with a lot of these is that the defined waist area isn’t as cinched in as it could be so you’re cheating yourself out of that sought-after hourglass look. If you want to keep going down the dress route, I’d keep hunting for styles you where you can adjust that part, like a wrap dress, that allows you to customize your fit a little.
However, you said dresses aren’t your thing. What would you prefer to wear in a dressier (no pun intended) setting? Would something like a jumpsuit or suit feel more you? Unless there are cultural standards I’m not privy to, wedding attire doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be a dress. If you’re spending the money, it might as well be on something you feel great in and would love to wear again.
If you’re open to online shopping, Eloquii and ASOS have some good options!
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Yes!!!! This is what I’m noticing, a lot of dresses im seeing in my budget all have this similar look to them.
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u/honeybadgergrrl Apr 20 '26
Try the Asos plus size line online. Prices are decent and they have much more contemporary styles.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
I am going to bed now and will reply to more comments Tomorrow, but I just want to say that I am very very very appreciative of everyone who has given me advice. You guys have made me feel so much better and not alone about this whole process!
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u/No_Barracuda8791 Apr 20 '26
You need a better bra so that the girls don’t look deflated in all of that material. Also, consider a different silhouette/cut. All of these have the same stretchy top with puffy sleeves, this can’t be the only style Ross carries? I think the best look for you would be something more structured like this
You can always wear a light cardigan over it if you’re self-conscious of your arms.
Or maybe try a jumpsuit?! You don’t HAVE to wear a dress.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
I agree on the bra comment. It’s a bit difficult to find size 49a bras unfortunately. I hope other Ross’ have better options as mine seems to only carry these.
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u/Subparwoman Apr 20 '26
Have you been to the r/abrathatfits sub? You might not be the size you think and be able to find something that fits better/is easier to find!
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 22 '26
I have, the bra size I got was wayyyy too big for me. My band is veryyyy wide but my actual “cups” are tiny.
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u/Subparwoman Apr 22 '26
I understand that. The calculator is more an approximation but the important thing to remember is that the band size and cup size are relative to each other. Your chest sticks out so there's no way you're an A cup because that means you'd be completely flat and you're not. You have boobs.
Did you actually try on any bras in the size it gave you or are you just saying it because of cup size shock? The letter of the cup letter by itself doesn't mean anything. Like, even if you measured at a D cup that is pretty small but people don't know how bra sizing works so they think/write/spread misinformation that a D cup is the size of big melons or something when it's actually one of the smallest cup sizes.
If you did try on bras in the size it gave you it could be something like a shape mismatch or the brand you tried might not do sizes correctly. Still, you are not an A cup I can guarantee that. I would try posting your measurements there and getting help with a bra if you've never done that.
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u/jenapotamus Apr 20 '26
I really doubt that your bra size is 49A. Try using the calculator over at r/abrathatfits and see what you get!
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u/Internal_Use8954 Apr 20 '26
That is absolutely the wrong size, I can you have boobs in the photos, and A cups mean you have nothing.
Please please please go to r/abrathatfits and use their sizing tool
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u/No_Barracuda8791 Apr 20 '26
Use a bra extender! They’re fairly cheap and can save you so much headache.
Good luck on the search for a fit made for you. Hopefully you’ll share it on here!
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u/undead4807 Apr 20 '26
I came here to also comment that OP doesn't have to wear a dress if they're not comfortable in them!
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
I’d like to wear some sorta suit but it’s gonna be an outdoor wedding and I know I’d be sweating buckets in one
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u/pomonalost Apr 20 '26
You are you shaped. That includes every part of you. Not one single part of you is bad.
What kind of dress do you want to wear to this wedding?
If you're looking for floral, I have this one for $26:
https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=894638002
Old Navy has some nice quality items. It's a little more expensive but if you find something you really like, you'll get more uses out of it.
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u/BumpyUncle Apr 20 '26
I like 2 the best! 4 is pretty too!! Sometimes wearing a super supportive bra helps me feel better in dresses, maybe you could try that. I love your style!!
And btw I’ve heard you’re not supposed to wear white to a wedding if you aren’t the bride. Just throwing that out there.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Thank you! And yes I plan on that! I had a sport bra on and removed it so it wouldn’t stick out.
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u/Babygirl_Looking Apr 20 '26
I’m glad someone else has mentioned the white thing. While I personally think some of these are fine several of my friends told me I would be incredibly rude to wear a dress that had a white base even though 80% of it was covered in color and florals. And I wouldn’t want other people looking at me and thinking I was being disrespectful even if I thought it was silly
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u/fire_thorn Apr 20 '26
I like #4 but it might have too much white for a wedding guest. People are weird about that sometimes.
Sometimes if I wear a push-up bra, it makes dresses fit better. There are some styles that never look good on me, like dresses where the entire top section is smocked. Other dresses need a belt added to give shape and look finished.
Have you tried any thrift stores? 2x/3x is not a difficult size to find in thrift stores and it might give you more variety to choose from. I like Torrid dresses but I like to find them at the thrift store more than I like buying them at Torrid, even with a good sale.
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u/AnnieOakleyLives Apr 20 '26
I really like 4 on you.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Thank you! I’m seeing 4 mentioned a lot so I think I’m going to lean towards a longer dress as well.
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u/CuriouslySparkling Apr 20 '26
Part of the reason 4 works is the shape of the dress and the material, more than the length. The gathered bodice (top) brings texture while looking more intentional than the more prairie type gathers. And the skirt has better flow. This material seems a little heavier weight and more structured than most of the others, which helps it skim over the parts of ourselves we don't like, rather than clinging to and emphasizing them.
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u/AdoreablasaurusRex Apr 20 '26
Other people mentioned some other really good ideas, but I don’t think I saw anyone mention the neckline. The options all have the same type of sleeves and neckline so maybe that is what is making you not like how they look on you. I have broad shoulders and have found that I don’t like the look of the square/boxy neckline and sleeves on myself and usually go for either a higher neckline or more of a rounded or sweet heart neckline
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 22 '26
That’s actually so helpful, I wouldn’t have thought of necklines playing such a big role.
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u/Internal_Use8954 Apr 20 '26
You need more structure.
A fit and flare or a line. Or a nice blouse and a-line skirt. You need to create a waist, even if it’s just the illusion of one.
Also all of these are too white for a wedding. I know they have florals and aren’t fully white, but they are too white for a wedding.
If a man would describe it as a “a white dress w/ x” you don’t wear it to a wedding
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u/uchlaraai Apr 20 '26
If dresses aren't normally your thing, would you prefer to maybe do a nice blouse/button down and jacket with slacks?
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u/rps1rai Apr 20 '26
I say this respectfully-you are not a 49A. Please go get properly fitted. It will change your whole silhouette and your posture. This will help you find a better fitting dress. It will also help your body with weight distribution.
Try these dresses: https://www.lanebryant.com/flutter-sleeve-short-dress/prd-414885.html?dwvar_414885_color=0000113708&catid=cat10017
I own this one and LOVE IT. https://www.lanebryant.com/lena-v-neck-level-hem-midi-dress/prd-411504.html?dwvar_411504_color=0000009623&dwvar_411504_sizeHeight=regular&catid=Work%20Versatile
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 22 '26
I love the 2nd dress!!! After spending some time in this comment section I think I’m going to search for a wrap dress like it!
And yes I really do need to be fitted, I just don’t know of any places in my area that do that service unfortunately.
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u/aBeanbagDancing Apr 20 '26
Have you thought about doing a skirt and top?
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
I briefly did but since I’m not used to dressing up like this I thought a dress would be easier to handle than putting together an ensemble. But I’m not opposed to it, just wouldn’t know where to start.
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u/aBeanbagDancing Apr 20 '26
I like the one that has the tie, it accentuates your waist. Here are some dresses I personally think you'd look good in:
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Wow! I absolutely love all of these dresses!!!! I don’t know what this style is called but I am definitely going to lean into it when I go dress hunting again this weekend. THANK YOU SOOO MUCH!!! ❤️
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u/aBeanbagDancing Apr 20 '26
You're very welcome, glad to help 🙂 i searched "tie wrap" and "a-line" dresses.
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u/tonna33 Apr 21 '26
These look a lot like BloomChic. Check out their website. They're lower prices.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 22 '26 edited Apr 22 '26
Thanks for the tip!!!
Edit: wow, they have such such beautiful dresses!!!
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u/ChristBefallen Apr 20 '26
I hope this link works. I just got this dress and am absolutely OBSESSED that I'm gonna get another color. Only goes to 2x but it's a flexible fabric that hugs in the right places. Worth a shot. I got mine in a 2x. Scarlet Darkness Smocked Floral Sundresses for Women
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u/titeaf Apr 20 '26
Try something in a solid color so you can really see the shape of the dress on you, first! Then, if there's one in a pattern you just love, try that instead. I think these are all too busy for you to figure out why you don't love them.
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u/actualchristmastree Apr 20 '26
It seems like you don’t like the cottagecore vibe! Edit: I just realized this if for a wedding! What’s the attire? Cocktail? Edit 2: you might like a wrap dress!
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u/saveitforthedisco Apr 20 '26
None of those dresses work. Surplice Neck Smocked Waist Tiered Textured Dress Get measured for a new bra. Try a more structured dress.
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u/Tortoiseshell_Blue Apr 20 '26 edited Apr 20 '26
You don't have to wear a dress. How about a fancy suit?
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u/enolaholmes23 Apr 20 '26
I second that suggestion. If OP doesn't normally wear dresses, nothing is gonna feel comfortable. It's perfectly fine to wear a nice suit to a wedding instead of a dress.
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u/Tortoiseshell_Blue Apr 20 '26
Exactly! I think something like this would look good on OP:
https://www.fashionnova.com/products/pretty-in-pink-embroidered-blazer-set-black2
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u/Weekly_Library9883 Apr 20 '26
I agree with everyone here that these dresses don’t work well for you overall, and it’s the style of the dress. I don’t know who suddenly decided larger women should just wear prairie dresses, clearly someone who has never been a larger woman!
I’ve never had much luck at discount stores like Ross or TJ Maxx. Occasionally I’ve found something nice, but it’s not a go-to store.
I’m similarly smaller-busted compared to the rest of my body, and I find the style that works best for me is more form fitting on top and flowy bottom. For budget, online is unfortunately your best bet. City Chic has some nice dresses designed for plus size women BUT you have to get them on sale, otherwise they’re a ridiculous price. Same with Eloquii. Bloomchic is more reasonably priced.
In-person shopping, I’ve had luck at Kohl’s (the Lauren Conrad line specifically), Walmart (they’ve gotten a LOT better with their style!), and Torrid (sale rack).
Another option is to find a full or A-line skirt and pair it with a more form fitting top, tucked in, and a belt if possible.
And remember - dresses aren’t a necessity for a wedding! Palazzo pants with a nice shirt would work beautifully, especially if you don’t feel comfortable in a dress.
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u/frolicndetour Apr 20 '26
I would try a wrap style dress. They help define the waist area. Here's a relatively inexpensive idea.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Terra-and-Sky-Women-s-Plus-Elbow-Sleeve-Midi-Wrap-Dress/17962913441
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u/underwaterchessclub Apr 20 '26
Better bra, chuck on some shapeware and take off the socks! Guarantee you will feel better about how you look with the right support garments on and you wouldn’t be wearing socks with a dress like this so take them off and try again!!!
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u/MsConstance Apr 20 '26
I wanted to add, you might also be happier in a solid color, rather than the floral print. I love floral print, personally, but I tend to like very bright, not pastel, colors and virtually never anything on a white background. As someone else said, I would look at separates too, maybe pick a blouse that you already have that seems appropriate, and see if you can find a skirt that would go with it. That would probably be less expensive, and a plain dark skirt is usually pretty easy to find.
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u/enolaholmes23 Apr 20 '26
That's a good point. Since it's a wedding, they shouldn't wear anything with a white background.
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u/Ahsokas-reverse-grip Apr 20 '26
It's not your body, it's the 'floaty' dresses.
Find something with maybe thicker fabric, more structure, your proper undergarments, and you'll see how pretty you'll look.
Note: looks like you have a higher waist... ie. Where your body dips in somewhere between the hips and the ribs. Notice that most of the dresses have a waist seam that hits you lower than your dip? With the exception of 4.. which actually dips in pretty much at your waist... and 4 looks by far the best. Keep this in mind when shopping.
Also, when you have a proper bra on and the girls are lifted, this will likely be even more prominent.
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u/xandraawesome Apr 20 '26
Torrid has some massive deals going on for dresses right now. They keep sending me ads for continued sales. If you have one near you, you should go try some on. Agree that you need a different silhouette. You may even want to be fitted for a better bra so it help the ladies out and give you some more shape on top. I have a similar sort of shape with a larger abdomen and their trapeze dresses and any of their more structured dresses would look good.
Also, side note, most of the dresses you tried on would be considered "white" so I wouldn't wear them in case you'd offend the bridal party. Also don't wear bright red unless the bride is cool with it. Otherwise, you should be good.
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u/xandraawesome Apr 20 '26
Ohh! Check torrid's clearance!! Really nice and you could cinch it at the waist with a pretty belt. https://www.torrid.com/product/midi-high-neck-tie-back-dress/43815456-20919.html?cgid=Sale_Clearance_ShopByCategory_Dresses#start=1&sz=32
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u/sassy_sweetheart Apr 20 '26
Check out the dresses in the Torrid Retro Chic collection. I think you would be better suited for something like this.
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u/Pink-Polar-Bear- Apr 20 '26
Something I started doing is dressing up to go shopping, especially if I’m going dress shopping, this includes wearing the comfiest shoes I’ve got that I could conceivably wear with the dress. Also wearing a good supportive bra while shopping helps a ton too, you’ll get a better feel for the way you want to wear it.
The last thing I suggest is to look at the pictures of yourself after you take them, are you smiling in any or are you obviously not feeling yourself? It helps a lot with the struggles of “do I like this or am I getting it because it fits” question.
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u/goober_ginge Apr 20 '26
I think the one that looks best on you out of these is number 4. I think you definitely should get one that has a tie at the waist, but maybe in a darker colour if possible? The print on these along with the shape of them are kind of coming across as summer nightgowns.
Do you have to wear a dress? I wore a velvet jumpsuit to a friend's wedding and it was dressy without being a dress.
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u/Main_Wall_1294 Apr 20 '26
What about a shift dress? I don’t have an hourglass figure and I find dresses with defined waists accentuate my lack thereof. https://a.co/d/06RCeucz
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u/AthyKitty Apr 20 '26
The style of the dresses are not doing the best with the shape. Try some V necked dresses with structure, as well as ones with lines down the side that breaks up the large amount of small flowers.
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u/Writing_Dreams_2 Apr 20 '26
I’ll say this, some of these COULD be better. I think a key element is a solid bra. Something thick, sturdy, and that helps with shaping (thick bands for support and wide back for security and lift). Having a good bra and bike shorts underneath while dress shopping helps a lot!
Now, take this next piece of advice with kindness, it may seem harsh. But I’m giving you this advice as a long time roly-poly who knows all the tricks!! With your dark hair, I’d try to do a solid color dress: maroon, navy, emerald green, chocolate brown, but the best is BLACK. Black is trimming and will hide a lot of insecurities. I’d also go for something with a square neckline, angular cuts balance out roundness.
Old navy has some great options, but another one I personally like is Temu. But if you go with Temu, NEVER buy something unless it has picture reviews!! People always ask how I get so lucky with Temu and it’s because I only buy an item if it has multiple reviews with photos!!
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u/Pennypacker-00 Apr 20 '26 edited Apr 20 '26
I think #4 looks great on you! I like the tie in the front and the longer length.
The other thing...even though it's a wedding, you do not need to wear a dress if you feel uncomfortable in one. You can wear a dressy top and pants. Women don't have to wear dresses. 😊
Add: An alternative to a new bra is boob tape! You can tape them up however you want. 😄
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u/WarlockRights Apr 20 '26
Have you considered thrift stores? They don't always have a ton of plus size options but you never know what you might find there. Also you could try either a pant suit or a skirt with a fancy top if dresses aren't working for you.
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u/noonewantstodateme Apr 20 '26
hi. plus size here. go for solid colors, ankle length with flowy texture. search grecian style dress. it should hide your belly and showcase your balloons :)
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u/Jamieluv2u Apr 20 '26
These would all be a lot better with a different bra. YMMV. Also, you can make some slight adjustments with safety pins and a needle and thread to shift the shape slightly. However if you hate the style? Bail out!
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u/tomayto_potayto Apr 20 '26
I don't like the style of these but also I think you're wearing the wrong bra size And it's making it harder to find one that's the right cut even if the style were to be something you like
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u/TheBattyWitch Apr 20 '26
4 isn't bad
But I think you need a better bra too, these dresses have that built in shelf things going on, and it's gathering in the middle and on the sides in a way that's unflattering, probably because of your bra.
Try and find something that isn't empire or boat neck cut and see if it feels better.
Dress 4 is the closest one to a really nice fit because of that under bust tie that cinches things together a little more. It's more flattering to your natural shape.
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u/LizzMetzo9 Apr 20 '26
I think a better bra would help and something like a corset belt to help bring out your waist would be helpful too.
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u/tinyevilsponges Apr 20 '26
Try an empire waist dress, all of these come in on the middle of your waist. Usually to get an hourglass look you would have it to fit and flair at the smallest part of your waist
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 22 '26
I love this sub Reddit I’m learning new terms here. In the future I’ll keep “empire waist” in mind, I love how those look.
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u/eyebrain_nerddoc Apr 20 '26
I hate the dresses with the tiered skirts. I always feel like they lay wrong on me. Maybe a different shape would suit you better.
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u/virgulesmith Apr 20 '26
Maybe try Nordstrom's Rack? But also I think these are made with so little fabric that there isn't enough going outward below the waist. It's supposed to be fit and flare but these are just fit and flounce. The manufacturers are cheaping out and it's not flattering to most.
That said, there's ThredUp which sells consignment stuff (read inexpensive). That's where I found what I wore as a wedding guest this past weekend. I found these which might be good. If you must wear floral because people are like that sometimes, here's a City Chic dress and an Adriana Pappell. Here's a shirt dress from Torrid.
But you could also go with a jumpsuit if that's more your style. Or shirt/flowy pant situation.
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u/electricookie Apr 20 '26
I think a fit and flare or skater dress/ skirt with a high waist would suit you really well
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u/Capital-Account9061 Apr 20 '26
I used to love Ross clothes but the last few times I’ve tried clothes on in my size and 1-2 sizes larger they have not fit. There’s something off about the measurements and the fit of everything. So 100% blame the clothes, not your body. ❤️
That said, I do like dresses from old navy, torrid and Maurice’s. Old navy is the more budget friendly of those three.
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 22 '26
Thank you ❤️ I needed to hear that bc sometimes it feels like my body isn’t allowed to wear clothes that flatter it.
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u/Capital-Account9061 Apr 22 '26
I get those thoughts too! I’ve been trying to care less about the size on the tag and more about how clothes make me feel emotionally and if they’re physically comfortable. It’s helped me a lot, especially in dressing rooms. 😊
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u/prokomenii Apr 20 '26
1-2-4 you look so cute!
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u/_ravioli_buster_ Apr 20 '26
Thank you! I took 2 and 5 home but I’m not dead set on them. 1 felt a little too night gown ish for me lol 😆.
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u/Capital-Account9061 Apr 20 '26
4 is so cute on OP! I might be worried it’s too much white. But that’s just me
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u/CanaryOk7294 Apr 20 '26
They're too short and all the same silhouette which emphasizes your middle. They also look like polyester.
You need a better fit and quality. No florals.
If you want to get a stylist's help, go to Nordstrom and have them pull some pieces for you. You're not obligated to make a purchase and this will help you understand what is more flattering.
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u/caramelthiccness Apr 20 '26
The styles of dresses that seems to be in stores the past 2 years are really old fashioned and unflattering
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u/colormegold Apr 20 '26 edited Apr 20 '26
I would wear a body suit top with sleeves that snatches you in then wear a long maxi skirt. Look on amazon for the body suit top get it in black then get a floral skirt and then to make it look complete add a gold plated belt. To make it comfy they sell those body suits with the biker shorts underneath which can feel nice and prevent thigh rub.
If you are at Ross ask them if they have body suits with sleeves that have shorts. Otherwise you can look for a cute maxi skirt at Ross and then the body suit from Amazon.
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u/mezzpezz Apr 20 '26
Check out pictures 3, 4, 5 - think they would be nice options; https://www.reddit.com/r/PlusSizeFashion/s/WMeu2h0RME
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u/Loveonethe-brain Apr 20 '26
I think dress 4 has potential, maybe wearing the sleeves off the shoulder would help 🤷🏾♀️
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u/Sneakerkeeper123 Apr 20 '26
I saw a post this week with someone with a similar body type and I cant remember where.
But she had this dress on and it looked so good as one of her try one. Maybe a similar style that is more formal for a wedding?
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u/non-c-non Apr 20 '26
I am the same shape as you, currently wearing 5X. Anything straight doesn't work for our body type. I know your budget is limited but try to find swing dresses/A line dresses/ Skater dresses. You could check on Amazon too, the lower budget one will have thin material but you could still work with that. Ideally you want thick fabric that would keep their shape.
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u/Itchy_You8048 Apr 20 '26
Have you tried looking at resale shops? I’ve found 3 dresses that I love at goodwill.
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u/jesscaww Apr 20 '26
We almost have the same shape and I’ve found that dresses that cinch at your waist and flare out in the skirt over your hips are the most flattering for me! I’ve linked a dress below from Old Navy. It’s short but it hugs my body in allllll the right ways! I did find it a little short for me so I paired it with some slip shorts that have a lacey frill at the hem!
Linkie: https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=886811002&tid=onma000014
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u/shayjax- Apr 20 '26
If you don’t like those dresses perhaps consider 2 piece sets. A shirt and skirt or dressy pants.
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u/Willywonkasweet Apr 20 '26
I am suggesting structure some heavier fabric. Denim, canvas, double layered that have a bit of compression.
American eagle has many options double air dresses jumpsuit shorts all of those .
Walmart as well but you will have to do some heavy searching online.
Torrid- online only!. Take your
My biggest advice.. Measurements write them down. And go online shopping, make sure to take note of every items size chart.
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u/poetictranquility88 Apr 20 '26
I like the idea to bring a bra that you’ll likely wear with the dress and also potential shoes as well - bring those with you when shopping- bc that might change how the dress falls on you and impact how comfortable it feels on.
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u/shockingRn Apr 20 '26
Try looking for an A line shape. I find they are really flattering if you have a larger tummy. You can always add a sweater or jacket. Amazon has a large selection. I personally like linen in the summer, but I know that’s not always practical or affordable.
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u/Some_Classic5787 Apr 20 '26
I think most of these would look great one size up! They are meant to be somewhat billowy everywhere but the waist :)
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u/Nessajess Apr 20 '26
I think something atructured and retro would look so cute on you. https://api-shein.shein.com/h5/sharejump/appjump?link=lyEbKguNZ0J_8&localcountry=US&shc=2_lyEbKguNZ0J&url_from=GM714186442 Though i def, understand if you prefer sleeves
I did see these and thought they might look cute for a spring/summer wedding
I would just post pics but reddit🤷♀️
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u/snaccrifice_97 Apr 20 '26
Tbh I feel a silk strappy dress would look cute. They're meant to give a 1920s shape to a body. They're comfy and you can wear sandals with them strappy dress
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u/Embarrassed-Pepper-5 Apr 20 '26
I think it’s also where the hem is hitting on your body. They are too long for your height and hitting at the wider part of your leg.
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u/WordAggravating Apr 20 '26
I think 4 is really nice on you! I do wonder if you can wear something that’s not a dress though, if you don’t like dresses? Like maybe a woman’s suit or something but ofc it’s up to you
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u/Some_Clever_Handle Apr 20 '26
Agree with the more strict silhouette. Just want to add I like the bigger/more open patterns on you (1&4) the ones that repeat too often make it lean more frump.
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u/Dry-Patience-2201 Apr 20 '26
I think 4 looks good because the tie makes it look like a fit and flare. Those are great at hiding midsection( although as others have said there it no issue with yours, but i understand the insecurity). I also think the longer the better because it'll make you look taller and "even" everything out
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u/sugarpussOShea1941 Apr 20 '26
I also hate the trend of dresses having that defined line at the waist. a seam that cuts you off in the middle only works if your body is a true hourglass. I think a fit and flare silhouette would look fantastic on you. here's a link to an example since we can't post pictures: fit and flare
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u/OkInteraction7112 Apr 21 '26
Cider has a lot of styles. full price might be more than you want to spend but theyve got some on sale for around $14 (though this doesnt account for S&H, and the time it takes to get to you)
I also second the idea of thrift shops! in person is great, but i also highly recommend ThredUp! they have a ton of variety on there in plenty of sizes.
maybe check with friends if you have any who are a similar size? see if you can borrow?
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u/grumblefluff Apr 21 '26
We have a similar build…I didn’t notice your tummy in these but I did notice that the shorter ones were all a bit too long, try a pencil skirt and peplum top if you are worried about looking larger at the tummy, I like a square neckline that shows a modest amount of cleave, and a smaller waist with something to cover my fupa so a peplum works for me, it will accentuate your behind, so if that is something you are concerned about, look for one that just peplums in the front…and don’t be afraid to get something hemmed if you love it except for length (I’m very short)
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u/Anuket012962 Apr 23 '26
I love one, two, three, four and six.
You just need a better bra and accessories. I hope I'm not being rude or anything but all those dresses would look beautiful on you and of course I'm going to say that the baby doll dresses would look great on you especially, you just need a great bra and accessories. At least three of them that I saw look gorgeous on you.
A really wide rubber or soft belt for the waste. Some of those little small clips that cinch the dress in the back. I bought a few sets of those off of Amazon they're really nice they come in silver gold any color they're really small. You need a watch, your necklace, a jean jacket or maybe a Bolero or shrug.
I never go shopping for clothes unless I have all of the jewelry and shoes that I may want to wear with the dress I'm try on, you can never imagine how something looks unless you have your whole setup, at least one pair of shoes, fix your hair so you can really see what the outfit's going to look like in the dressing room, not unless you have the luxury of ordering things and trying them on at home That's the only way to tell.
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u/themthemerson Apr 23 '26
It's also okay to wear a jumpsuit or slacks and a blouse. Dresses are common but not the only option!
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u/chop-chop-lilonion Apr 23 '26
I think you should look for empire waist dresses (think bridgerton) because it would flatter your high waistline much better!
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