What Types of Dresses Look Good on Bigger Ladies?

A model walks in a dress from full-figured supermodel Emme's collection at JCPenney.

Photo: Evan Agostini/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

Bigger usually means better, ladies, and the more you've got to work with, the more fabulous any dress you choose must be. Forget about shying away from bright colors and busy patterns just because you've got serious curves. Show them off in figure-flattering dresses that work well for your shape and show off your vivacious personality.

Empire Style

The empire style is perhaps the most figure-friendly style of dress for full-figured women. It fits snugly around the bust area and then loosens up just under the bust, offering some extra room and a bit of flair. It camouflages the stomach area and comes in varying lengths, from short and swingy to long and comfortable. Empire-style dresses can be found in formal wear or casual cotton.

Wrap Dresses

This is another plus-size favorite, as it emphasizes the ample breast area that many full-figured women boast. It is similar to the empire style in that it fits snugly around the bust and gives some extra room in the midsection. The main difference is that it is not quite as loose as an empire style; it skims a little closer to your body's contours, making it one of your sexier dress options.

Maxi Dress

Think of this as the long alternative to a short, cotton shift. It is a loose-all-over style that falls to the ankles. The beauty of this dress is that it is beyond figure flattering and is so versatile. Headed to the beach for a day of fun in the sun? Throw on your bright red cotton maxi. Headed to the theatre? Put on your satin midnight blue maxi with a sassy updo and your most fabulous strappy sandals.

A-Line Dresses

Not all full figures are created equally; some are tall and full-figured all over, while others are short with curves in specific areas. An A-line dress is best for the former shape, flattering the midsection, but flaring out around the waist area to cover up a heavier bottom portion. The style of dress does look like the shape of an "A" and can be found in a vast area of colors and fabrics.

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