The Best Plus-Size Summer Dresses At Every Price, According To Style Experts (2024)

Molly Calhoun

Contributor

Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own.

Sizes: 4XS-4XL | Colors: Blue, black, green, blue & white stripe | Materials: 54% cotton, 40% rayon, 6% elastane

A shirtdress is classic and effortless, and we love that this one—from size-inclusive essentials brand Universal Standard—features chic detailing like a midi shirttail hem, a center back pleat and pockets. Another plus are the hidden snaps that minimize fabric gaping. It’s also versatile because it can be dressed up or down, and some reviewers say they like to belt it at the waist.

Sizes: 10-40 | Colors: Blue | Materials: 100% lyocell

Chambray is one of those fabrics that works for everything from lunch with friends to vacation-wear to a semi-casual work environment. But no matter the situation, the universally flattering blue, comfortable, breathable fabric, and well placed pocketsmake this dress a standout.

Sizes: XXS-5X | Colors: Black, brown, sage, earth, orange, pink, ivory, pale blue | Materials: 51% viscose, 49% nylon

Sometimes you just want a throw-on-and-go dress, and this ribbed midi checks the box. “I absolutely love a simple tank dress because of the versatility,” says Minnesota-based body confidence, fashion and lifestyle content creator Jaimmy Koroma. “It’s a staple piece you can dress up or down depending on the occasion.” Not to mention, it comes in much more than basic white or black. “I love styling my brown color dress with a platform sandal and chunky gold jewelry,” Koroma says.

Sizes: 14-24 | Colors: Floral | Materials: 100% viscose

Some florals skew tropical while others feel like your Grandma’s curtains reimagined, but this watercolor-inspired print is a gorgeous blend of feminine and romantic. It’s perfect for a day wedding, garden party, or any time you’re feeling summer vibes and sunshine. The bustier seam detail, adjustable tie straps and back smocking ensure an adjustable, comfy and figure-enhancing fit.

Sizes: 0-20 | Colors: Floral | Materials: 100% polyester

Some designs, like this one, can work for multiple seasons. The gauzy weight of this dress makes it summer-appropriate, the print makes it the perfect transition piece for fall, and its midi length lends itself to pairing it with tights and tall boots in winter. We love the airy puff sleeves and elastic detailing for definition at the waist.

Sizes: XXS-3X | Colors: Green, black (blue, dusty blue and red are available up to an XL) | Materials: 100% polyester

Lulu’s features stylish silhouettes at a more affordable price point. The more modest high neckline of this dress is offset by sheer fabric at the bodice, an elastic waistband that provides just the right amount of gathering and a tiered, flowy skirt.

Sizes: XS-5XL | Colors: Green, pick, black | Materials: 50% organic cotton, 50% recycled cotton

For a dress that looks equally stylish with sneakers as it does with sandals, this Good American dress features side ruching that allows for an adjustable hemline length so it can be slightly longer or slightly shorter depending on your preference. Reviewers love that the cotton is thick enough to be substantial but very breathable.

Sizes: XXS-3X | Colors: Periwinkle, black | Materials: 63% cotton, 37% polyester

This is a no-fail party dress: It has a square hemline that won’t require complicated undergarments and the full circle skirt will show off your legs on the dance floor. Reviewers love that there’s just the right amount of stretch to the body-hugging fabric so it both holds its shape and is flattering.

Sizes: L-5X | Colors: Baby blue and red | Materials: Not listed

Pretty Little Thing offers trendy clothing at affordable prices, and this off-the-shoulder dress with a deep sweetheart neckline is destined to become your next going out showstopper. “Everyone definitely needs a sexy, flirty number!” says Koroma. “The material of this dress is light and airy and drapes beautifully on the arms, and the texture throughout also adds visual interest. All it needs is a strappy pair of heels and it’s perfect for a wedding or a night out.”

Sizes: XL-4XL | Colors: Tangerine | Materials: 100% cotton

This midi dress—from size-inclusive luxury brand 11 Honore—perfectly blends easy-to-wear and elegant. Its adjustable wrap style makes it a custom fit, the cotton fabric is unfussy, and the playful puff sleeves can be worn on the shoulder or off. The brand calls the gorgeous color tangerine but we think it skews more sunflower yellow.

Sizes: 14-28 | Colors: Multicolor | Materials: 92% polyamide, 8% spandex

Originally founded in 2011 as part of The Limited, Eloquii was re-launched in 2014 as a direct-to-consumer, size-inclusive online brand. With stretch sequins, a side slit, and a column fit, this body con dress blends pulled together, fun and sexy. “I love this because it's not your average maxi or slip dress,” says blogger Natalie Craig of Natalie in the City. “I never turn down an opportunity to wear sequins and I love that this dress is made of them from head to toe.”One negative is that reviewers comment the straps aren’t adjustable.

Sizes: 1XL-3XL | Colors: Rose and black | Materials: 67% Tencel lyocell, 33% nylon

One of the hallmarks of Vince is that their styles often feature luxe fabrics like slinky silk and soft cashmere. This dress is made from a floaty Tencel blend, which makes it extremely lightweight and gives it a romantic vibe. We love it for its figure-hugging smocking at the waist and the deep V in the back, which begs for you to wear your hair up.

Sizes: 1XL-4XL | Colors: Multicolor | Materials: 100% polyester

Online retailer Cider sells unique pieces in a variety of sizes, Koroma says, and this dress—in a traditional Toile de Jouy blue and white print with a square, tie-front neckline—certainly stands out. “Since watching the last season of Bridgerton and reading the series, I’ve been wanting that romantic, dreamy, dress that feels like you should be walking along the Thames. This just makes you want to enjoy high tea with a friend.”

Sizes: 10-28 | Colors: Teal multi | Materials: 100% polyester

Led by designer Cynthia Vincent, Baacal is notorious for its gorgeous prints, beautiful silhouettes and impeccable fits. This tie-waist dress will take you from important meetings to romantic dinners to everything in between.

Sizes: 12-28 | Colors: Blue and red | Materials: 100% polyester

Founded in 1904, Lane Bryant has long been known for accessible plus-size fashion. Made with a flowy woven dot fabric, pockets, and in an off-the-shoulder design, this ruffly maxi is perfect for date night.

Sizes: XL-4X | Colors: Black | Materials: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Fashion To Figure is famous for trendy plus-size fashion at affordable prices. “This is one of the sexiest dresses I have ever owned as a plus size woman,” says Craig. “I love that this maxi hugs every curve of my body just right and the high-cut slit is daring and confidence-boosting. The material is very soft and stretchy but still feels thick and high-quality.” Craig recommends sizing down one size in this stretch-knit dress, and some reviewers comment it runs long so you should wear it with a heel.