How To Dress To Hide Belly Fat – 8 Easy Tips And Ideas

Be comfortable in your body and step up your fashion game to flaunt your curves

Reviewed by Keicia Shanta, Fashion Expert Keicia Shanta Keicia ShantaFashion Expert twitter_iconyoutube_iconinsta_icon
Written by Pratima Ati, MSc Pratima Ati MSc linkedin_icon
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature) Madhumati Chowdhury MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Fact-checked by Pahul Nanra, BA (English Hons) Pahul Nanra BA (English Hons) linkedin_icon Experience: 2 years
Last Updated on

Since body types differ from person to person, finding the right piece of clothing that suits your physique perfectly is essential. If you have a tummy bulge, a muffin top, or some flabs, then you will need to do some smart shopping.In this article, we shall help you discover a wide range of stylish dresses tailored to enhance your figure and hide that tummy bulge effortlessly. So, say “goodbye” to those days when you would spend hours looking for a perfect outfit for yourself but return empty-handed. With the options, tricks, and tips listed below, you will love shopping again, for you would find your dream dress everywhere, and they would make you look like a showstopper too. Embrace your body type, for you are beautiful. Workout and stay healthy, and never give up on looking fabulous. To achieve your goal, all you have to do is scroll down and read this article. Now without any further ado, go ahead and check out what we have in store for you. It is time for you to steal the show wherever you go.

Who says you need to compromise on style just because you do not have flashboard abs? You just need a few tricks up your sleeve, and you’re sorted. Follow me and let’s do this together!

protip_icon Ace The Look
  • Accessories: Pair your outfits with chunky necklaces, minimal studs, and a basic watch with a thick strap for a classy look.
  • Fabric: Opt for clothes with heavy fabrics such as leather and denim to hide belly fat. For lighter fabrics, make sure they are made for a slim-fit look.
  • Bottom Wear: Go for palazzos, high-rise pants, or wide-legged jeans to hide your belly fat.
  • Type Of Shapewear: Opt for waist trimmers/clenchers or shapewear that offers tummy as well as hip coverage for better compression around the waist and for a slimmer look.

What To Wear To Hide Tummy – Tips & Ideas

1. Lingerie And Undergarments—Getting It Right

Lingerie and undergarments to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Wearing the right intimates is a given, but some of us need to pay more attention to a few things than others normally would. It is important that you choose a bra; that is not loose or sagging, but makes you uptight while giving the right definition. Also, consider high-rise underwear’s—these help you a great deal in tummy control. We need to get this one right.

2. Shapewear—To Your Rescue

Shapewear to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

You should try these if you have not already. They are your rescue rangers; I could not wait to get my hands on these. It basically, tucks the unflattering flab and tires back into the tummy, at least it creates the illusion. These soft, comfortable and tight-fitting undergarments come in a lot of variants, taking full control of your tummy area. You can easily get away with those body hugging dresses that were forever part of your wish list. It makes a lot of difference, especially if you make smart choices. I assure that you’re going to love it.

protip_icon Stylecraze Says
There are different types of shapewear, like waist cincher, contouring shaper, bandeau style shaper, or a paneled shaper. They have different compression levels to make your abdomen look flattering.

3. Body Posture—Matters!

Body posture to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

We don’t pay much attention to our posture, but it’s time we all do. Being unaware of your ergonomics while sitting or standing will eventually add up to a lot of other things. Poor posture is proven to sag and loosen the abdomen muscles further and blowing up the bulge, more than what it already is. Not only for wearing great clothes, working on your posture is a healthy practice even otherwise. Make a conscious effort to give it some time; you will see the change for yourself. Remember, a slouchy posture is only going to make it worse.

4. Dress Smart—Knowing The Tricks Of The Trade

Dress smart to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Gone are the days when being loud and gaudy was hip. Dressing up classy and carrying it off well is the all new mantra. But, first, you need to get your basics right! Know how to dress for your body type, understand your problem areas, and identify your strengths. Wear dresses that steer the attention away from your tummy; it could be just a flowy or ruched dress, a draping-patterned maxi, or a kaftan that does it for you. You can also go for dresses that show the waist, like an empire-waist gown, belted tunic, or wrap dress, to hide the middle area, and jeans with tummy tuck built in. It’s also worth mentioning that it’s best to stay away from body-hugging clothes, unless you’re sure of pulling off a bulgy stomach. Choose what you want to make the center of attraction and dress accordingly.

5. Colors, Patterns, And Fabrics—Know It All

 Colors, patterns, and fabrics to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

To begin with, fabrics make a lot of difference; every color and pattern look differently with different fabrics. If you are serious about hiding your tummy, then I suggest you go for dark colors, flowy fabrics, and vertical patterns. This is a fail-proof method that generally doesn’t go wrong.

6. Layer It Up—And Make-Believe

Layer it up to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Wondering how to dress if you are overweight? Try and avoid wearing skinny-fit dresses. However, if you’re comfortable in your skin and whatever you’re wearing, go ahead. For me, it’s not very difficult to stay away from these because I’m not a fan of anything body-hugging. Either way, it’s best to go with something that has a flow, bounce, and definition to it.

7. Skin Tight Dresses—May Not Be A Great Idea

 Skin tight dresses are not a good idea to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

For me, it’s not very difficult to stay away from these because I’m not a fan of anything body-hugging, not that my body permits it. Either way, it’s best to go with something that has a flow, bounce, and definition to it. If you’re comfortable in your skin and whatever you’re wearing, go ahead—there’s no stopping you!

8. Asymmetrical Hem

A lady in a black asymmetrical hem dress
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

An asymmetrical hemline is an excellent choice to conceal a tummy while adding a stylish flair to your look. Opt for asymmetrical tops or dresses that make you look thinner. They draw attention away from the midsection. The varying lengths create a visually interesting silhouette, diverting the focus from the tummy area. A longer side of the hem gracefully covers the midsection while the shorter side adds elements of modern style and sophistication. Pair short asymmetrical hem garments with well-fitted bottoms to balance the overall look. This style not only offers coverage but also adds a chic touch to your outfit, allowing you to feel comfortable and confident while drawing attention away from your tummy.

Had I known any of these, my shopping experiences would have been less challenging. Take a minute to understand the in and out of each of them. Let’s use these tips to build the blocks and look at dresses that will not just camouflage the unflattering fat but also make you look stylish and confident.

How To Dress To Hide Belly Fat – Outfit Ideas

Are you ready to have a look at the dresses that hide belly and love handles? Scroll through and see what defines you the most.

1. Ruffle Or Peplum Tops

Ruffle or peplum tops to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Peplum tops or dresses cinch at the narrow part of your upper waist and lift up as they train down to the belly button. Best for your curves. Ruffle tops shift the focus and conceal those bulges. It’s all about the illusion and creating it the way you like it.

2. Vertical Pattern Shirts Or Dresses

Vertical pattern shirts or dresses to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Vertical dresses are for women with frailties like ours. Unlike the horizontal patterns, these make your body look taller; so you appear slimmer than your usual self. This way you can fully enjoy what you’re wearing without having to worry too much about the flabby stomach.

3. Pleated Skirt And Plain Tops

Pleated skirt and plain tops to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

It is a general assumption that people with a protruding tummy cannot wear skirts. I thought so too for a very long time. Yes, if you opt for denim or a small waist skirt, it ought to happen. Try pairing your plain T-shirts or A-line shirts with pleated skirts; it makes a lot of difference. These skirts start right at the tip of your belly button, so go with a top that is soft and airy. If you can pull off a high-waist skirt, nothing like it, either!

4. Tops With Pom Poms Or Frayed Edges

Tops with pom poms or frayed edges to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Pom-poms are a rage right now, and they work to our advantage. So do ruffled tops. Those frayed edges and pom-poms absorb the attention masking the painfully wobbly areas. These are both stylish and figure-flattering. We just need to learn to hover around our pain areas.

protip_icon Stylecraze Says
You can also wear tops with embellished necklines or V-neck tops to draw attention towards the neck and shoulder instead of the waist area.

5. Dark Colored Flowing Dresses

Dark colored flowing dresses to hide belly fat
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

Wearing dark colored dresses to hide belly will always work. If you loved an outfit and are not sure if it goes with your figure? Or apprehensive that it will sit well on the tummy, go with a dark color. Even better, if it is either flowing or wavy.

6. Oversized Tops With Trousers

A girl in oversized top and trousers
Image: Midjourney/ StyleCraze Design Team

This ensemble is not just fool-proof but also gives you a chic and classy look. Pick up at least one size more than your regular size and team it up with a pair of slim-fit trousers, jeggings or leggings. You can also wear a top with a waist band to hide the belly fat. Accessorize to finish the look, and you’re ready to go!

7. Choose The Right Accessories

Woman wearing bold earrings and a headscarf
Image: Shutterstock

Opting for the right accessories can also help in driving attention away from the heavy stomach. You can choose long necklaces or scarves that create vertical lines, slimming the overall look. Wide belts worn over the waist can also emphasize an hourglass figure, while bold earrings and headbands divert focus to the upper body.

Formal occasions often call for dresses and choosing the right dress at that time that can hide your tummy bulge can be a little confusing, so to help you out we have shared different dress styles that you can try. Scroll down!

Best Dress Styles For Tummy Control

Woman wearing a red polka dot wrap-around dress
Image: Shutterstock

From wrap dresses to A-line silhouettes, let’s check out the different dress styles that can seamlessly hide your tummy bulge.

Wrap Dresses: The adjustable wrap-around design cliches at the waist, creating an hourglass shape and drawing attention away from the tummy.

Empire Waist Dresses: With a high waistline that sits just below the bust, these dresses flow gently over the stomach, thereby creating a lengthening effect and minimizing focus on the midsection.

A-Line Dresses: An A-line dress is fitted at the top and flaring out at the waist. It can provide structure while skimming over the belly.

Shift Dresses: With a straight, relaxed fit, shift dresses don’t cling to the body, making them ideal for hiding a bigger belly while still looking stylish.

Infographic: Dressing Tips To Hide Your Belly

As long as you know your body type and what you feel comfortable in, it is easy to figure out clothing options that smartly cover your belly. It’s important to understand that what looks great on another body type may not necessarily look flattering on you. But a few tips can help you dress your body type to perfection without you worrying about your belly.

Here is an infographic you can use as a quick reference on dressing tips to hide your belly.

dressing tips to hide your belly (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Isn’t it amazing how there are dresses to hide the belly too? It sure is. So, do not budge on your style or your confidence! These dresses will make you feel confident and help cover your belly. You do not need to compromise on your style quotient just because you do not have toned abs. Embrace your natural beauty and if you wish to get rid of the belly permanently, adopting a healthy lifestyle is a must. So, take inspiration from our list while concentrating on your diet and exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are high-waisted dresses good for hiding belly fat?

Yes, high-waisted dresses are good for hiding belly fat. You can also try A-line, banded waistlines, and thicker fabrics for a more flattering look.

What materials should I look for in a dress to hide belly fat?

Opt for denim, cotton, or silk materials to hide belly fat. These tend to look less bulky and fall flatteringly on body shapes.

Should I avoid bodycon dresses if I have belly fat?

No, you should not completely avoid bodycon dresses if you have belly fat. Instead, look for dark colors or bold patterns to hide the belly pooch. And wear it with confidence.

Which styles should I avoid if I want to conceal my belly fat?

It is best to avoid tight, hugging dresses, low-rise pants, and clingy fabrics if you have a heavy stomach. Boxy or oversized styles can also emphasize the midsection rather than conceal it, hence those should be skipped as well.

Key Takeaways

  • Go with an A-line cut, flowy fabrics, ruffles, or tops that do not cling to your tummy.
  • Wearing darker clothing provides a slimming effect.
  • Wear high-waisted dresses to smooth out the midsection.
  • Wear a skirt and flowy clothes that are wider than your waistline at the bottom.

Illustration: How To Dress To Hide Belly Fat - 7 Easy Tips And Ideas

dresses to hide belly

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Find out how to hide your tummy with the best and stylish clothing options. Check this video exploring amazing dos and don’ts to dress well and hide that paunch.

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Keicia Shanta
Keicia ShantaFashion Expert
Keicia Shanta is a fashion expert with over a decade of experience. She started her blog FashionCrush in 2012 with the plan of just talking about her hunt for trendy fashion finds that don’t break the bank. That blog quickly grew into much more with her first editorial fashion collaboration with southern retail chain Belk.

Read full bio of Keicia Shanta
Pratima Ati
Pratima AtiFashion & Lifestyle Writer
Pratima Ati is a postgraduate in International Business from Staffordshire University. After working in Marketing and Business Development for a few years, she jumped ship to pursue two things she loved – fashion and writing.

Read full bio of Pratima Ati
Madhumati Chowdhury
Madhumati ChowdhuryAssociate Editor
Madhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.

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Pahul Nanra
Pahul NanraBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Pahul Nanra is a content writer with a penchant for all things fashion and beauty. She has two years of experience in writing across beauty and lifestyle genres. She is an English Honors graduate from Delhi University with a diploma in Fashion Designing from YMCA.

Read full bio of Pahul Nanra
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