T-Shirt Dresses: Style Tips For Plus-Size Women

T-shirt dresses are a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down, making them a staple for any wardrobe. If you're looking to style a t-shirt dress but are unsure how to flatter your body, there are a few simple tips to keep in mind. Firstly, avoid horizontal stripes and busy patterns as these can draw unwanted attention. Instead, opt for solid colours, particularly darker shades like black, which are generally very slimming and flattering. You can also create a more defined waistline by adding a belt to your outfit. When it comes to footwear, avoid shoes that stop at the ankle or have ankle straps, as these can make your legs appear shorter. Instead, go for tall boots, ballet flats, or a pair of heels to elongate your legs. Layering is also a great way to style a t-shirt dress for different seasons. In cooler weather, you can pair your dress with a denim or utility jacket, or a longline cardigan. For a relaxed fall outfit, try wrapping a flannel shirt around your waist. During warmer months, a simple pair of sandals or wedges can help you achieve a casual, feminine look. With these tips in mind, you can confidently style a t-shirt dress to suit your body and personal taste.

Wear a long-sleeved shirt underneath for a casual look

Layering a long-sleeved shirt under a T-shirt dress is a great way to create a casual look, especially if you're aiming for a relaxed, lounge-friendly vibe. Here are some tips to help you style this combination:

• Go for a baggy, long-sleeved shirt and pair it with a baggy T-shirt dress. This will give you a comfortable and relaxed look. Finish the outfit with a pair of sneakers.
• For a stylish twist, try wearing a printed long-sleeved shirt under your T-shirt dress. This will add a bit of edge to your outfit. You can even wear a pair of Jordans with this combination to sport that 'too-cool-for-you' vibe.
• If you're feeling creative, experiment with different colours and patterns. For a subtle look, choose a long-sleeved shirt in a neutral colour. Alternatively, you can mix and match colours and patterns to create a bold statement.
• To accentuate your curves, add a belt to your outfit. This will not only highlight your waist but also add a stylish touch to your overall look.
• For a super casual vibe, pair your T-shirt dress with a denim jacket or a comfy boyfriend sweater. This will keep you warm and cosy while still looking stylish.
• When choosing a long-sleeved shirt, pay attention to the fabric. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen during the summer, and go for knitted fabrics to stay warm in the winter.

Add a denim jacket for a light, casual outfit

A denim jacket is a versatile piece that can be worn with almost anything and is perfect for layering. It can be dressed up or down, making it an ideal addition to a casual outfit. Here are some tips to style a t-shirt dress with a denim jacket for a light and casual look:

• Choose a denim jacket in a light wash or a darker shade, depending on your preference. If you want to create a more relaxed and casual vibe, go for an oversized or boxy silhouette. Alternatively, you can opt for a fitted jacket to define your waist.
• T-shirt dresses are typically casual, so pairing one with a denim jacket will create a cohesive and laid-back ensemble. The contrast between the soft fabric of the dress and the structured denim will make for an interesting combination.
• For a simple yet stylish look, opt for a t-shirt dress in a solid colour that complements your denim jacket. Avoid excessive patterns and horizontal stripes, as these can draw unwanted attention. Instead, go for vertical stripes or solid colours to elongate your silhouette.
• If you want to add a bit of edge to your outfit, try rolling up the sleeves of your denim jacket. This will give it a more casual and relaxed feel.
• Denim jackets are perfect for layering, so don't be afraid to experiment. You can wear the jacket open or closed, depending on the temperature and your preference. Layering a denim jacket over a t-shirt dress can help you transition your outfit from summer to fall effortlessly.
• Accessorise your outfit with seasonal accessories. For a light and casual look, opt for sandals or espadrilles, and finish the look with a woven bag in a neutral tone or a pop of colour.
• If you want to add a bit of definition to your waist, consider adding a belt over your denim jacket. A wide belt can help hide any problem areas around your tummy and create a more flattering silhouette.

Wear tights or leggings underneath for warmth

If you want to wear a t-shirt dress but the weather is cool, tights or leggings can help keep you warm without having to bundle up. Tights or leggings can be worn with any colour or pattern of t-shirt dress. For example, wear plain tights or leggings with a striped t-shirt dress, or try patterned tights with a solid-colour t-shirt dress.

Tights or leggings can be worn with a variety of shoes, but they match especially well with boots or heels. If you want to wear sneakers, opt for white or grey sneakers, which pair well with all t-shirt dresses.

Wear a belt to create a defined waistline

Wearing a belt is a great way to define your waistline and accentuate your figure. It's an easy way to change up your style and make a simple T-shirt dress more interesting and flattering. Here are some tips on how to wear a belt to create a defined waistline:

• The position of the belt on your waist or hips can affect the overall look of your outfit. Experiment in front of a mirror with belts of different widths, trying them above and below your natural waistline to find the most flattering position for your body type.
• If you have a defined waist, skinny, bright-coloured belts worn at the narrowest point of your waist can look great.
• For a straight waist, try a thick or skinny belt and play with the positioning to see what suits you best.
• If you have a long waist, wide belts worn on the narrowest part of your waist can help shorten the body, enhance your silhouette and create an hourglass figure.
• If you have a short waist, thin belts will work better as a wider belt can make your torso seem shorter.
• For a large bust, wearing the belt slightly lower than your natural waistline can help balance your proportions.
• For a petite bust, wearing the belt just under your bust can lift your bust and show off your waistline.
• A high-contrast, statement belt can draw attention to your waistline and accentuate your curves for an ultra-feminine look.
• Adding a belt to high-waisted skirts or trousers helps emphasise your waist and show off your curves.
• A belt can also transform a cardigan from ordinary to wow. Try it with cardigans you already own or invest in an Obi belt – a soft piece of leather or fabric that can be wrapped around your hips or waist to add a stylish touch to any trousers or skirts in your wardrobe.
• A belt is a quick way to change the silhouette of a shirt or shift dress and show off your curves.
• If you want to wear a skirt or trousers with a T-shirt dress, a belt can help create a defined waist and a more put-together look.

Pair with a bright tote bag for a bold look

If you're looking to style a t-shirt dress with a bright tote bag for a bold look, here are some tips to help you achieve a stylish and confident outfit:

Choose the Right Tote Bag

Select a tote bag that is bright and colourful to make a statement. You can opt for a solid colour that contrasts with your t-shirt dress or choose a tote bag with an interesting pattern or design. If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own no-sew tote bag from an old t-shirt! This way, you can customise the colour and pattern to perfectly complement your dress.

Keep Accessories Minimal

When pairing your t-shirt dress with a bright tote bag, it's best to keep other accessories minimal. The bag is meant to be the focal point of your outfit, so avoid adding too many competing accessories. However, you can still add a few simple pieces, such as a delicate necklace or earrings, to enhance your look.

Consider the Occasion

The beauty of a t-shirt dress is its versatility. You can easily dress it up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual daytime look, pair your dress with flat shoes, such as ballet flats or white sneakers. If you're heading to the beach, add a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to complete the relaxed vibe. For a more sophisticated or bohemian look, opt for ankle boots or espadrille wedges.

Play with Colours and Patterns

Don't be afraid to experiment with colours and patterns when styling your t-shirt dress. If your dress is a solid colour, you can add a pop of colour with your bright tote bag or choose a bag with an interesting pattern. If your dress has a pattern, try to keep the tote bag plain to avoid a busy appearance. You can also play with different textures, such as suede or leather details, to add depth to your outfit.

Emphasise Your Figure

No matter your size, it's important to show your figure rather than hide it. Choose a t-shirt dress that flatters your body type and emphasises your waist. A-line or empire-style dresses are great options as they accentuate your curves while camouflaging areas you may want to minimise. You can also add a belt to create a more defined silhouette.

Frequently asked questions