Fashion

7 plus size dresses that will instantly elevate your wardrobe

With options to suit every occasion, event and climate.
best plus size dresses

When curating your wardrobe, certain pieces are essential, like the perfect dress. However, merely finding just one dress that does it all is an arduous task; you’re usually in need of various styles and silhouettes that suit various events, climates, and budgets.

Discovering a dress that complements your figure not only makes you look good but makes you feel it too. Fortunately, contemporary fashion offers a wide array of choices, no longer limited to standard sizes.

The abundance of dress options available can be overwhelming, even for the most enthusiastic shopper. While we adore shopping (and we truly do), there are times when delegating the task of selecting the best options is a welcomed relief.

That’s where we come in. We have searched the internet to meticulously curate a guide featuring the finest dresses for plus-size women to add to their collection this year. Whether you’re seeking an everyday mini, a seasonal classic, or a show-stopping event gown, our selection has something for every occasion.

2024’s top plus size dresses

  1. Angie Puff Sleeve Dress, $69.97 (usually $99.95) at City Chic (here’s why)
  2. Atmos&Here Alexis Midi Dress, $89.99 at The Iconic (here’s why)
  3. Maxi Knit Dress, $279.95 at Commonry (here’s why)

The best plus size dresses of 2024

best little black dress

01

Angie Puff Sleeve Dress

$69.97 (usually $99.95) at City Chic

Best for: the ultimate little black dress 

An essential in any wardrobe, the Little Black Dress stands as a timeless piece, seamlessly transitioning from casual outings to office chic or even evening cocktails. Its versatility knows no bounds.

City Chic’s take on this classic with puff sleeve details offers a refreshing twist to the simple silhouette. This LBD promises to be a standout piece, effortlessly elevating your style for any occasion

Sizes: 12 to 24 | Colours: Black | Materials: 96% polyester 4% elastane

Key features

  • V-neckline
  • Mini length
  • Puff sleeves that finish at elbows
  • Pullover style 
dress for work

02

Atmos&Here Alexis Midi Dress

$89.99 at The Iconic

Best for: the perfect dress for work 

Finding the ideal corporate dress can be a challenge, balancing style with professionalism and comfort. Look no further than an A-line midi dress with a high neckline. The Alexis dress from Atmos&Here exemplifies this, offering a sophisticated silhouette that is both flattering and comfortable for all-day wear.

Crafted to fit the body beautifully without sacrificing comfort, this dress is versatile enough for year-round wear with the addition of simple, elegant layering.

Sizes: 18 to 26 | Colours: Navy Pink Spot, Neutral Spot and Black Spot | Materials: 100% polyester 

Key features: 

  • Lightweight material
  • Round high neckline
  • Midi length 
  • Elasticised cuff sleeves 
winter plus size dress

03

Maxi Knit Dress

$279.95 at Commonry

Best for: a winter dress

For a dress you can reach for when the weather starts to turn from warm and balmy to cool and breezy we love this flattering knit dress from Commonry. The A-line silhouette is versatile, comfortable and stylish and the thick, tight knit will keep out the chill. 

Sizes: 8 to 22 | Colours: Black and Ecru | Materials: 72% viscose and 28% polyester

Key features

  • Tight, compact knit
  • High neckline
  • Wide sleeves 
  • A-line silhouette
cocktail dress

04

Poppy Curve Asymmetrical Ruffle Gown

$109.95 (usually $189.99) at Forever New

Best for: cocktail attire

Flirty, glamorous and effortless this chilli red maxi dress is a great piece to have in your wardrobe for when the occasion calls. Whether styled with casual elegance in mind with strappy sandals or paired with your favourite high heels for a night out, this dress effortlessly transitions from day to evening.

Crafted with delicate ruffles that cascade throughout, this not only adds texture to your ensemble but ensures you turn heads.

Sizes: 16 to 26 | Colours: Chilli Red and Parker Floral | Materials: 72% viscose and 28% polyester

Key features:

  • V-neckline
  • Ruffles throughout
  • Finishes at ankle
formal plus size dress

05

Pink Dusk Work It Maxi Dress

$159.99 at The Iconic

Best for: formal occasions

Need to elevate your look beyond the standard cocktail dress? Look no further than this elegant and sultry maxi dress, perfect for formal events like galas, weddings, or fancy dinners out. The Work It maxi dress hugs the figure at the waist impeccably before flaring out to create that elegant hourglass shape that exudes sophistication and allure.

Sizes: 10 to 24 | Colours: Black | Materials: 100% polyester

Key features:

  • Tiered skirt
  • V neckline
  • Floaty mid-length sleeves
summer dress

06

Linen Cutout Maxi Dress

$200 (usually $250) at JAG

Best for: a summer maxi

Although the weather is starting to cool it may actually be the best time to find yourself a summer dress before the season rolls around again. A maxi dress allows for freedom of movement, some sun coverage and of course breeze on hot days. The additional cut-outs on this maxi dress are an added bonus. 

Sizes: 6 to 16 | Colours: Black | Materials: 100 per cent linen 

Key features

  • Contrast stitching
  • Cutouts at waist
  • Keyhole opening 
  • Side pockets
designer plus size dress

07

Blue Pleated Georgette Flounce Smock Dress

$525 at Ganni

Best for: a designer splurge

Looking to splash out and treat yourself to a designer piece? If so we can’t recommend Ganni enough, the brand offers extended sizing across a range of their pieces and recently collaborated with a plus-size model and 2023’s Model of the Year, Paloma Elsesser, on a collection. 

We love this elegant layered maxi dress that exemplifies Copenhagen fashion.

Sizes: 4 to 24 | Colours: Heather, Sugar Plum, Floral Azure Blue and Black | Materials: 100% recycled polyester

Key features:

  • Square neckline
  • Layered skirt
  • Smock bodice
  • Elastic straps

What dress is most flattering for a plus-size?

It all comes down to preference, especially when it comes to dressing for your body type. For plus-size bodies, A-line styles, shift dresses, and fit-then-flare pieces are particularly flattering.

Maxi dresses exude elegance, offering a graceful silhouette, while bodycon styles are more sultry and ideal for nights out. Embrace your curves and choose styles that make you feel confident and beautiful


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