It's peak party season and as we all know too well, party wear can come with a sense of dread as we're compelled to pull out clothing that might be out of our comfort zone.
However, we're all about feeling like our most confident selves as we go into 2025, which is why 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, 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, 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 dress: Phase Eight Amelia wrap dress, £99 / $171
- Tummy skimming: H&M Lace Dress, £54.99 / $84.99
- Flattering belted dress: Hush 'Martina' Midi Shirt Dress, £110 / $188
How I chose
- Style: Whether you're searching for 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
Wrap dresses 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 the spring and summer.
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."
Phase Eight Amelia Navy Foil Wrap Dress
© Phase EightEditor's Note:
If you're searching for a tummy-flattering dress for a special occasion, Phase Eight's Nelly wrap dress is the perfect option. It is the perfect feminine style to pair with gold accessories for your next occasion.
Live Unlimited Animal Print V-Neck Midaxi Shirred Wrap Dress
© Live UnlimitedEditor's Note:
M&S stocks a brand called Live Unlimited London and this dress is perfect for party season and beyond. Featuring a burnout zebra print, the dress is cut to a regular fit, with a wrap-style v-neck that creates a flattering silhouette.
New Look Curves Black Crossover Satin Midi Dress
© New LookEditor's Note:
Looking for a chic party dress? New Look's satin black midi dress is the one. It has a feminine V-neck and a tummy-flattering wrap front. Pair the dress with stylish bow tights for a modern look.
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.
River Island Black Sequin Smock Dress
© River IslandEditor's Note:
River Island's embellished smock dress is a must for ringing in 2025. Available in sizes 6 - 18, the fun number will look great styled with boots or heels.
H&M Lace Dress
© H&MEditor's Note:
For a shorter style, H&M's tummy skimming lace print dress ticks all of the boxes. The mini dress features a V-neck collar, long sleeves and ruffles for a flattering effect. The mini can be styled in so many different ways, and I'd pair it with knee-high boots and a glam pouch bag.
Rixo Marigold Silk Midi Dress
© RixoEditor's Note:
For those of you who don't know, Rixo stocks extended sizes online. This dress is truly stunning and is such an easy, wear-everywhere style. This version is printed with polka dots - the print works for so many occasions and is subtle enough for every day. This would look amazing whatever footwear you choose.
Belted 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."
Wyse London Dee Dee Shirt Dress
© Wyse LondonEditor's Note:
Everything about Wyse London's Dee Dee dress is flattering. The midi length, the button-up front, the relaxed belt situation - it's just incredible. Whether the special occasion is, this number will definitely have all eyes on you.
Hush Black Martina Midi Shirt Dress
© HushEditor's Note:
The Hush 'Martina' dress is guaranteed to flatter every figure. It goes up to a size 18 and it features a midi length, a button-up front and breathable airflow fabric which means it never feels bulky.
Boden Maeve Trim Jersey Midi Dress
© BodenEditor's Note:
Could this be the ultimate flattering dress? Made from 50% cotton and 50% TENCEL Modal, this dress is all about a freeing, flowy fit to a cinched shape as, and when, you please.
