Having a big tummy can make getting dressed frustrating.

If you’ve ever stood in front of your wardrobe and sighed because nothing makes you feel good anymore… OR if you’ve changed five times before leaving the house because everything clings weird or makes you feel bigger than you are this post is for you.

First, please know that you’re not the only one.

So many women of all sizes deal with the same daily wardrobe battles. I was in a similar situation a year ago after the birth of my daughter.

So, when I sat down to write this, I wanted it to feel helpful, not overwhelming. These are small, smart style shifts I WISH someone had told me when I was stuck in a style rut and couldn’t find myself. They are tips you can try right now — no shopping spree required. They’re the kinds of tips that make getting dressed feel less stressful and more like you. Because style should feel good — belly and all.

Why Dressing a Big Tummy Can Feel So Annoying

It’s not just the fact that you feel uncomfortable, it’s how something that should be fun and uplifting – dressing up – chips away at your confidence every single day. Sometimes it gets so bad you detest going out to meet up with people.

I have a friend who, few years ago, would moan about any event we were invited to. We later agreed it was because she was going through something at the time and had put on so much belly weight she hated dressing up and looking at her body.

To make matters even worse, even if you decide to go on a shopping trip – you may find that everything is either too tight… or so baggy. This will mentally affect even the most confident woman out there.

Tips that Actually Help

I’ve seen these tricks work for friends, clients, and even for myself. They go beyond shapewear (though no shade if you love it). These are real-life changes that help you feel better in your clothes, no matter your shape or size.

Ready to feel good again when you get dressed?
Scroll down for the 6 easy tips that actually work.

1. The Tuck Trick

My friend Mandy told me she never tucked her tops in — ever. She thought it would only draw attention to her tummy. Then one day, she tried a little front tuck (just slipping in the middle of her blouse into her jeans). And suddenly — she looked polished. Not tight, not bulky. Just… effortless.

This trick works because it gives a bit of shape without clinging to your belly. It breaks up the outfit and draws the eyes upward — toward your face, not your middle.

💡Try this: Next time you wear a loose top, just tuck in the front part a little. Leave the rest out. Trust me.

2. Structured Bottoms

Have you ever worn leggings and an oversized t-shirt, hoping to feel comfy — but instead just felt blah? That’s because soft on soft can sometimes feel too shapeless.

Now picture this: a soft blouse you love, paired with tailored trousers or high-waisted jeans that hold you in gently. That structure on the bottom helps balance your shape — and actually makes your belly feel more secure.

💡Try this: Swap stretchy pants for straight-leg or wide-leg trousers with a flat front. Look for a waistband that doesn’t fold or pinch when you sit.

3. Floaty Fabrics (Not Clingy Ones!)

I once bought a fitted dress made from stretchy jersey material. In my head, it was going to look sleek and classy. In real life, every bump, line, and bloated moment was front and centre.

But then I discovered flowy fabrics — like crepe, cotton blends, or even a soft woven linen. They skim your shape instead of sticking to it. You still get a lovely silhouette, but without that “wrapped in plastic” feeling.

💡Try this: Choose tops and dresses that drape gently. Avoid shiny or super-stretchy materials around your belly.

4. Layers Change Everything

Ever felt exposed in just a top and jeans? Like there’s nowhere for the eye to go except your middle?

That’s where a third piece — like an open cardigan, denim jacket, or kimono — comes in. It creates vertical lines down your body and adds dimension. Suddenly, your outfit feels intentional. And your tummy isn’t the star of the show anymore.

💡Try this: Keep a lightweight cardigan or duster coat handy to throw on over simple outfits. It adds style and confidence.

5. Prints and Accessories Pull Focus

If you’re always reaching for plain black to “hide,” here’s a better idea: distract beautifully.

A printed top. A bold necklace. Statement earrings. These draw attention to your face and upper body. People will remember the whole outfit, not the part you’re worried about.

💡Try this: Wear a printed scarf, a bold blouse, or chunky earrings when you need a little confidence boost.

6. Dresses That Flatter You, Not Just the Model

Not all dresses are created equal. For a big tummy, the best ones are either:

• Empire waist (where the seam sits just under the bust)
• Wrap dresses (that tie at the side and give shape)
• A-line dresses (that gently flare out without clinging)

My cousin once wore an empire waist dress to a wedding and told me, “I didn’t even think about my belly all night.” That’s the goal — clothes you can forget about because they just work.

💡Try this: Avoid dresses with tight seams right at your waist. Go for those that flow out from under the chest or have ruching at the sides.

Final Thoughts on how to dress your big tummy

You can choose pieces that feel good on your body today and dress in a way that helps you hold your head higher.

Because when your clothes feel good, you feel good.

Let me know if you found any of these tips helpful.