Why We're Obsessed With Wrap Dresses and Maxi Dresses for Plus Size

We just adore dresses here at Joe Browns. That's why we stock so many stunning styles, from tunics and mini dresses to tea dresses and boho frocks. In this guide, though, we're going to spotlight two of our absolute favourite dress styles for plus size figures - maxi and wrap dresses! 

But what makes these two styles such go-tos? Well, lets explore a little further.

Before we begin, it’s important to note that there are no hard and fast rules for which type of dress will best complement a plus size body. Plus size women come in all shapes, and rock all sorts of styles. Only you know what you feel your best in, so our suggestions are merely that - simple bits of guidance if you’re feeling stuck. 

If maxi and wrap dresses aren’t your personal style, you can have a read of our full ‘Confidence and Curves’ style guide for more inspo. 

A wrap dress is a type of dress where one side of the dress is wrapped over the other and tied at the waist. They come in a range of lengths, from elegant maxi styles to fun and funky minis. 

Most people’s size fluctuates for a number of reasons. Wrap dresses are oh so handy in these situations, as you can tie them tighter or looser depending on what feels best for your body that day, allowing you to find that perfect bespoke fit.

Because maxi dresses tie in the middle of the body, they’re absolutely amazing for accentuating the waistline to emphasise an hourglass silhouette. This also means the fabric on either side of the waist tie hugs the hips and upper areas oh-so flatteringly. 

Many wrap dresses also have a gorgeous v-neckline so you can draw attention to the upper torso, allowing you to highlight a beautiful necklace or sunkissed neckline. 

Maxi dresses are longer dress styles, with a hemline that often reaches the ankles or lower. They’re incredibly feminine, and a popular choice for occasions and summer days.

Maxi dresses come in many designs, allowing you to flaunt as much or as little as you’d like. Choose a maxi with a skirt slit if you love your legs or a bardot neckline to show off your shoulders. Prefer a modest look? There are also plenty of full coverage maxi dresses that are absolutely beautiful, too.

Maxi dresses tend to be loose and breezy, making them incredibly comfortable. Whether they’re loose all over or in an a-line silhouette, they flatter a wide range of figures and allow for free and easy movement. 

That’s not to say tighter, more figure-hugging types of maxi aren’t available if you prefer. While floaty, swooshing cuts are more common, a bodycon maxi can be a real head-turner.

Another reason that maxi dresses are so beloved is that they can celebrate the body’s length, allowing you to show off your height and create a sweeping, streamlined and elegant silhouette. You can boost this effect further by pairing your maxi with a pair of heels. 

An empire waistline is common with maxi dresses. This is a waistline that sits directly under the chest area, accentuating the bust and allowing the fabric to flow softly over the rest of the body and dance as you move. If this sounds familiar, it’s because the empire waistline is used in the Regency-style dresses seen on shows like Bridgerton, and it’s easy to see how wonderful the style looks on actresses of all body types in the series.

In fact, if you’d like to use the lovely ladies of the ton as further style inspo, see our Bridgerton style guide.