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Plus size summer dresses
Summer is here and it's definitely time to say, 'let's get ice cream', but have you got your hotter weather wardrobe ready so you've got something appropriate to wear in the heat?There's a wonderfully eclectic mix of plus-size summerwear this year, and we've narrowed down the best of the bunch especially for you...
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Before you buy
The most important thing to consider when buying a summer dress is the fabric. Always, always check what it's made from. You might love it on the hanger, but you might not feel so kindly towards it when you're dripping in sweat and it's sticking to all the wrong places! A purchase made in haste tends to be a purchase gone to waste, so read on to avoid such a dilemma...
Fabric dos and don'ts
Dos
- Cotton - This natural fibre absorbs moisture, keeping you cool and comfortable. Avoid bold colours if you don't want anybody seeing visible sweat patches.
- Chambray/Lyocell - These trendy denim alternatives are lightweight, absorbent and don't require you getting the dreaded ironing board out of the cupboard.
- Linen - A breathable natural fibre which doesn't cling but is prone to creasing.
- Viscose - Made from plants, this airy, crease-free fabric is the manmade version of cotton and performs just as well in sweltering conditions.
- Blends - These fabric combos (e.g. cotton with rayon or linen with rayon) are inexpensive and keep you feeling fresh in hotter climates.
Don'ts
- Polyester - Avoid this odour-trapping, sweat-pooling offender.
- Rayon - A synthetic fabric which repels rather than absorbs water. No-go.
- Denim - Heavyweight, constricting, chafing-prone...need we say more?
- Nylon - The worst fabric to wear in the heat as it's completely non-absorbent.
- Silk - Though lightweight, it's a moisture-repelling fibre, so not suitable for heat.
The best of this year's plus size summer dresses...
Maxi
From left to right: Suri striped maxi, £139, Coast; Floral print maxi, £52, Navabi; Leaf print maxi, £19.50, M&S.
Maxi dresses are perfect for those wanting a bit of extra coverage whilst still being sun-appropriate. Whether you're a size 16 or a size 24, these long silhouettes flatter every shape. For those who are more top-heavy, stick to thicker straps, v-shaped necklines and drawstring waist, and those bigger on bottom suit thinner straps or strapless tops, empire waistlines and floatier materials for the lower half.
Casual
From left to right: Black drawstring t-shirt dress, £15.99, Yours; Olive green shirt dress, £22.99, New Look; Lyocell denim swing dress, £35, Simply Be.
We love these casual dresses because they're so versatile. For the daytime, you can throw one on over your swimwear, ready for a dip in the pool, and in the evening you can dress one up with some eye-catching accessories. Look for loose fit, drawstring, t-shirt and shirt-style dresses to complete your fashionable but practical plus size summer dress wardrobe.
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Special occasion
From left to right: Ada Bardot midi dress, £99, Coast; Floral printed kimono dress, £39.99, Yours; Striped linen dress, £59.99, Mango.
Whether it be dinner, drinks or a late-night stroll, it's always fun to have an excuse to get a bit dressed up. When the sun's out and the temperatures are soaring, it's always a bit of a dilemma as to what to wear later on in the day. Opt for dresses with short sleeves if you think you might get chilly and bring a shawl with you just in case. Really make an impact with statement accessories and a pair of gorgeous summer sandals.
Beach
From left to right: Geo print kaftan beach dress, £18, Matalan; Floral print Bardot beach dress, £22, Bonmarche; Bandeau beach dress (black/grey two-pack), £29, Simply Be.
Sometimes you just want to show off your nice new beach dress rather than stripping down to your swimwear - which, let's admit it, can be daunting! - so why not try one of these cheery numbers. Bandeau, kaftan and Bardot designs are great for keeping you cool and comfortable. They're so comfy that you might find yourself wearing them off the beach, particularly if there's a super hot heatwave! Avoid wearing a crochet or lace dress at all costs, unless you want to turn heads with some unusual tan lines...
Images: Shutterstock