The complete guide to choosing a dress for plus-size and petite women

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Wearing the right dress for a round and petite woman can have a slimming effect on you and give the illusion of a larger waist. So you need to choose the right models. And by “right models,” we mean the right cuts and patterns.

Choosing a dress for a round and petite woman, how does it work? It’s true that in addition to considering the volume of the body, you also need to consider the height. But there’s a remedy for everything. And the solution is this article.

To make the choice of a dress for round women, our complete guide on the subject will help you find the dress of your dreams!

The basics of a dress for a round and petite woman

As mentioned earlier, you need to consider the appropriate cuts.

• Rule No. 1: the cut of the dresses

You should opt for fairly short cuts. Mini dresses and short dresses are your best allies. Yes, by showing off your beautiful legs, your silhouette appears longer.

On the contrary, long cuts tend to make you look piled up. At most, choose models that barely cover the knees. Some models of dresses for round and petite women are preferred.

For round and petite women, it is ideal to opt for flared dresses. For a sexy look, for example, choose one that is tight-fitting at the bust and has a skater skirt. This way, not only will your chest be highlighted, but also your legs.

For maximum effect, we recommend always opting for high-heeled shoes. Whether it’s boots, pumps, or open-toed heels, choose wisely according to the style of your outfit.

• Rule No. 2: fabrics and colors

For curvy women, rigid fabrics are not recommended. On the contrary, they suffocate your body and provide no comfort. So, it’s better to opt for stretchy and elastic fabrics. Knit, cotton, viscose, chiffon, silk, elastane, and lycra are on the list of fabrics to prefer.

Also, always choose fluid and lightweight fabrics. Anything ruffled brings lightness to your outfit.

Lace models are very good examples in this case. Also, lace, guipure, lace, and transparent materials are not lacking when it comes to fluidity and lightness.

For colors, dark and somber colors are the most effective for hiding curves. But if you trust your body and your dress for a round and petite woman, opt for fancy and vibrant colors. For warmer days, it is best to opt for light-colored fluttering summer dresses.

• Rule No. 3: patterns

The recurring refrain is that you should always opt for small patterns and avoid stripes at all costs.

Indeed, by opting for small patterns, your look will appear less heavy. Floral prints and pretty polka dots, for example, embellish your outfit without accentuating your curves.

Stripes, on the other hand, are not very advisable for curvy women as they draw attention to the rolls. But exceptionally, and only for petite women, you can opt for stripes only if they are vertical.

Yes, vertical stripes give the illusion of a longer body.

Obviously, you need to strike a balance. So opt for thin and dark stripes on a light base. Avoid making them too big to avoid giving your outfit a too saturated effect. Also, avoid animal style patterns. Zebra, leopard, reptile prints, and others only overload your look.

Choosing an elegant dress for a round and petite woman

According to all the criteria listed above, finding an elegant dress should no longer be a puzzle.

• The trapeze cut:

It refers to a flared skirt in the shape of a trapezoid, as the name suggests. It is therefore suitable for round and especially petite women.

Ideally, choose one that reaches the knee. This way, your legs will be highlighted. Moreover, this model gives elegance and charm thanks to its slightly straight side.

That being said, for your bust, choose an original cut to stay trendy. For example, long sleeves and a plunging V-neck. By highlighting your chest, you will be radiant. Another option is the square neckline.

For warmer seasons, opt for short or 3/4 sleeves, or even straps. Here, you are free to choose the color and patterns of your dress, as long as it is elegant.

• The wrap dress: a must-have for sexy and elegant women

The wrap dress suits all body types. It conceals the stomach and accentuates the waist, just like the previous model.

Moreover, it has this fitted aspect on the hips and thighs. It is true that this model is not always flared, however, its unique cut gives you an uncommon style and slightly elongates your silhouette. Only, prefer high-heeled and closed-toe shoes for more impact.

In this case, you can opt for a mid-length dress for a round and petite woman, but only if the fabric is fluid.

The trendiest style for this dress for a round and petite woman is the long or 3/4 sleeve and wrap style. This style of bodice gives you unparalleled elegance while highlighting your attributes.

Enhance this femininity even more with colors and patterns. Red, purple, and emerald green are very good examples.

• The empire cut: unbeatable and irreplaceable

This cut seems to be dedicated to curvy women. Thanks to its cinching just below the bust, it not only emphasizes the bust but also conceals the stomach.

Generally, these dresses already have fluid skirts, which is an added advantage. For these, opt for short models.

To break the rather childish style of this cut, opt for plunging sweetheart necklines, off-the-shoulder sleeves, and elegant patterns. Opt for lace or guipure for more femininity.

You can also choose a short skirt style but embroidered or transparent to the level of the legs. In this case, you can also go down to the ankles.

Regarding colors, this time, make sure to choose a solid and dark color.

Also, don’t be too tempted by rhinestones, sequins, and glitter. A few at the level of the bust are acceptable, but don’t overdo it.

Need more information about the elegant dress for a round woman? Follow the guide, we have created an article on this subject just for YOU!

Special occasion? Adopt the best evening dress for a round and petite woman

Need a sexy dress for a round and petite woman to spend an evening in beauty? Here’s what you need.

Follow the first rule and forget about maxi dresses. The best option is short dresses, even mini dresses.

• Tight-fitting dresses:

Those in satin, for example, with thin straps or long off-shoulder sleeves, are at the height of women’s fashion these days.

Dedicated to evenings, this cut makes you sexy and boosts your self-confidence.

Choose the size of your dress that is most comfortable for you.

• Mini dresses:

Do you want to be sexy in a dress for a round and petite woman? Opt for a mini cut. For more discretion, choose a dress that is above the knees. Here, make sure your model is a dark color.

• Bold dresses:

Go for it! Shine with a sexy red or purple dress.

Pair it with lace-up heels for a taller effect. You will be absolutely stunning!

• Asymmetrical dresses:

If you’re not a fan of the sexy look, you can opt for a much more covered model.

For example, a short or mid-length dress in the front and long in the back.

Make sure it is cinched at the waist. This way, the elongation effect will be more visible.

• Wrap dresses:

Break the simplicity. Opt for a wrap top, it stands out more from the ordinary and the best part is that it highlights your bust. Fitted long sleeves will do the trick.

Or, prefer very revealing necklines for an attractive look.

If, however, you choose to cover up more, opt for a simple bohemian-style top. For the color of the dress, a solid base with simple patterns like flowers or small butterflies is enough.

Here, you have a choice between lace, lace style, and fluttering fabrics.

To learn more about evening dresses for round and petite women, consult our 100% Modalova (and practical) guide!

The cocktail dress

The cocktail dress with a skater skirt is also a suitable outfit. However, you need to play up femininity because this cut is rather childish.

Below are the tips you should never forget to highlight yourself with this dress.

• First feminine asset: the chest

You have the choice between a deep neckline and a slightly closed U or V neckline.

• For the shoulders:

Choose either bare shoulders or puffed shoulders.

• Regarding the sleeves:

Opt for asymmetrical and fitted sleeves. But for the latter, wear a simple necklace.

• Regarding the fabric:

Silk and chiffon are perfect for this look. However, a white or fancy-colored dress for a round and petite woman is most suitable for this style.

• Regarding accessories:

Opt for a white clutch, white shoes, and dangling earrings to lengthen your face.

To learn more about the dress for a round woman, consult your 100% practical guide on the subject!

Special occasion to prepare? Discover our file on the elegant dress for a round woman :)