Look, I’m a dad – I don’t wear these outfits myself.
But after years of hearing my wife, sisters, and friends vent about summer clothes that ride up, squeeze too tight, or make you feel like you’re wrapped in clingfilm – I’ve picked up a few things.
Especially when it comes to finding plus size summer outfits that actually work for a bigger stomach.
You want comfort, style, and something that makes you feel good without needing to suck in all day.
So here are 14 Plus Size Summer Outfits for Big Stomach I’ve seen work, heard praised, and would gladly recommend to any woman looking for flattering summer options that beat the heat.
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Affiliate Disclosure: Some links above and within the article are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Rest assured, I only suggest or recommend essentials or things I use and trust in my own apparel collection, kitchen or home.
1. Tiered Maxi Dress – The “Throw It On & Go” Winner
Every woman I know who owns a tiered maxi dress ends up living in it all summer. It’s light, loose in all the right places, and actually hides the belly without looking like a tent.
Especially the ones with a bit of structure up top – like a V-neck or slight wrap style.
Add sandals, and boom – you’re ready for a brunch, grocery run, or backyard BBQ without breaking a sweat.
2. High-Waisted Linen Shorts + Loose Tank – Casual & Breezy
My wife swears by linen shorts in the summer – and the high-waisted ones are surprisingly flattering.
They hold you in gently (no tight digging waistband nonsense), and paired with a loose, drapey tank top, the whole outfit just works. It’s that chill “I’m comfy but I still look great” vibe.
A half-tuck or layered necklace can pull it together, but honestly, it’s a belly-friendly win either way.
3. Fitted Tank Dress + Long Kimono
Now this one surprised me. A fitted tank dress (hear me out) with a long, flowy kimono-style layer over it looks amazing.
The dress gives some shape while the kimono floats right past the tummy area. It’s like fashion magic: coverage without heat.
My sister wore this combo to a summer party and I must’ve heard three compliments in ten minutes.
4. Flowy Tunic Top + Stretch Capris (Easy Win for Everyday)
This is one of those “mom-uniform” combos that just works – especially for curvier bodies.
A tunic-length top that’s loose around the stomach paired with stretchy capri leggings or jeggings makes it easy to move, run errands, or hang at the park.
Look for tops with side slits or a slight high-low hem. My wife rocks this with sneakers or slip-ons, and she looks ready for anything without feeling overdone.
5. Empire Waist Sundress – The Sneaky Slimmer
There’s something about the empire waist that just gets it right. It pulls in just below the bust and lets the rest of the fabric flow over the stomach. No clinging. No squeezing.
It’s been a go-to for a couple of my friends who said it made them feel instantly more confident. Works best in light cotton or jersey fabrics. Throw on a denim jacket if it’s breezy.
6. Flared Romper – Surprisingly Flattering
Okay, I didn’t expect to put “romper” on this list. But hear me out.
A loose-fit romper with a flared or A-line cut can actually work really well for plus-size bodies with a big belly.
One of my cousins wore a black one to a barbecue – it had a cinched waist (but not tight), flutter sleeves, and soft fabric. It moved with her, not against her. Super cute and crazy comfy.
7. Button-Down Shirt (Left Open) Over a Tank + Shorts
This combo is so underrated. A simple tank top with high-waisted shorts, and then throw a button-down shirt over the top – left open like a breezy layer.
It adds shape, covers the belly area just enough, and still lets you breathe in the heat. Striped or chambray shirts work great for this.
Bonus: roll up the sleeves and it suddenly feels super intentional.
8. Duster Vest & Cropped Jeans (Long Lines, Big Impact)
Long vests (aka dusters) are one of those secret weapons that instantly change the whole look.
Throw one over a basic tank and cropped stretch jeans, and suddenly there’s this vertical line that makes the body look longer – not wider.
My wife has one in a soft jersey knit and it flows like a cape. Perfect for when you want to feel pulled together but still breathable.
9. Wrap Dress – The OG Belly Hider
I don’t know who invented the wrap dress, but they deserve an award.
It hugs in the right places (hello waistline) and lets the fabric do the work over the belly area.
And no, it doesn’t need to be tight or clingy – look for soft knits or rayon blends that move with you.
My cousin swears by her wrap dresses for weddings, date nights, and even school drop-offs. One dress, tons of use.
10. Flowy Jumpsuit – The Grown-Up Comfort Pick
Jumpsuits can feel scary at first glance, but once you find the right cut, it’s hard to go back. The trick? A loose fit around the stomach, elastic or belted waist, and wide legs.
It balances everything out and still feels like pajamas.
My wife wore one to a friend’s outdoor party – it had a scoop neckline and a drawstring waist – and I honestly thought she’d found the holy grail of summer comfort.
11. Peplum Tops + Straight Leg Jeans (Classic Shape Without the Squeeze)
A peplum top gently flares right below the bust or waist, creating a super forgiving shape – especially for the belly area.
Pair it with straight leg jeans (not skinny, not wide—just right) and you’ve got a polished but comfortable combo.
My sister calls this her “I want to look like I tried, but not suffer” outfit. You can dress it up with a clutch or wear it to the grocery store. Works both ways.
12. Paperbag Waist Pants + Tucked Tee (Belly-Friendly & Stylish)
These pants were everywhere last summer – and for good reason.
The paperbag waist sits high, cinches just enough without digging in, and the loose fabric around the stomach area makes it super forgiving.
Pair it with a simple tee or tank, tucked in lightly, and you’ve got shape without discomfort.
My wife has a linen pair that’s become her go-to for both errands and dinner dates.
13. Sleeveless Trapeze Dress (Move-Ready & Bloat-Proof)
Here’s a no-fuss favorite. A trapeze dress (you know, the kind that flares out gently from the top) doesn’t cling anywhere.
It’s basically an A-line that lets your body breathe.
Perfect for bloated days, hot afternoons, or when you just don’t want anything touching your stomach.
One of my family friends swears by these for beach walks and school pickup alike. Add flip flops and you’re good to go.
14. Off-Shoulder Blouse + Flowy Midi Skirt (Flirt Without the Fuss)
When you want something a little dressier but still belly-friendly, this combo nails it.
An off-shoulder or wide neckline blouse draws attention up (away from the stomach), and a flowy midi skirt with an elastic waist covers everything else.
My cousin wore this to a garden baby shower and looked incredible – comfortable, cool, and no shapewear in sight.
Final Thoughts
Listen, I’m not a fashion blogger. I’m just a dad who’s seen what actually works for real women during the summer – especially those dealing with a bigger belly and the heat.
The outfits above aren’t about hiding who you are.
They’re about feeling good in your skin, breathing easy, and wearing something that doesn’t fight your body.
It’s not about trends – it’s about comfort, confidence, and not dreading the mirror every time you walk past one.
If even one of these combos makes your summer mornings easier, then that’s a win in my book.
