Best 27 Formal Dresses for Women That Hide Belly and Flatter Every Curve
Let’s be real—finding a formal dress that makes you feel elegant, confident, and comfortable isn’t always easy. Especially when you want something that smooths the midsection without compromising on style. Whether you're attending a black-tie wedding, a gala, or a work event, this guide is here to help you discover formal dresses that flatter your figure—no squeezing, no settling, just pure confidence. From curve-hugging silhouettes to flowing styles that conceal the tummy area, we’ve rounded up 20 formal dresses that do it all—and make you shine doing it.
Content Outlines:
- Empire Waist Formal Dresses with Soft Draping
- A-Line Dresses with Structured Bodices
- Ruched Dresses with Waist-Cinching Detail
- Halter Neckline Dresses with Elevated
- Wrap Formal Dresses (Maxi & Midi Styles)
- Fit and Flare Dresses with Defined Waistlines
- Asymmetrical Hemline Dresses with Modern Edge
Empire Waist Formal Dresses with Soft Draping
Why it works: Empire waistlines sit just below the bust, letting the fabric fall smoothly over the belly. It’s a flattering trick for apple-shaped bodies—especially in a flowy formal gown or flutter-sleeve silhouette.
Black Glitter Empire Gown with Sequin Strap & Slit
Why choose it? You want something that flatters your shape and still lets you shine. The empire waist smooths over the tummy, while the sparkly straps and high slit add a bold, confident touch.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Burgundy Sleeveless Empire Waist Chiffon Gown
Why choose it? You need a dress that gives room around the midsection but still looks pulled together. The wide waistband defines your shape without squeezing, and the pleated skirt adds flow where you need it most.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Dusty Blue Empire Dress with Flutter Sleeves
Why choose it? You’re looking for something that flatters the belly and gives soft arm coverage—without feeling matronly. The empire waist does the shaping, while the flutter sleeves bring comfort and balance.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
A-Line Dresses with Structured Bodices
Why it works: A-line dresses naturally skim over the tummy while giving your waist gentle definition. For curvier or pear-shaped bodies, this silhouette offers a structured top and flowy bottom that brings out your best shape—without clinging where you don’t want it to.
Layered V-Neck Sequin A-Line Dress
Why choose it? You want something that sparkles but still feels soft around the midsection. This dress gives you structure up top and volume below—perfect for hiding belly while feeling ethereal.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Black Sequin Sheer-Bodice A-Line Dress
Why choose it? For a sleek look with just enough drama, this dress is a win. The sheer bodice hugs gently without squeezing, while the A-line skirt flatters the waist and glides over the hips.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Cowl Neck Lace-Up Maxi A-Line Dress
Why choose it? You like a bit of edge but need something forgiving on the belly. The cowl neckline softens the bust, while the lace-up back gives you a custom fit and the skirt flows away from the midsection.
Brand: Lulus
Blue Glitter Tulle A-Line Gown
Why choose it? This dress feels like magic in motion. The glitter-stitched bodice gives shape without stiffness, and the tulle skirt floats over the belly—perfect for weddings or winter formals.
Brand: Windsorstore
Short Sleeve Black Sequin A-Line Dress
Why choose it? If you’re after something that hides both belly and arms, this one checks all the boxes. The high waistline draws the eye up, and the flutter sleeves add coverage without bulk.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Sage Green Satin Back-Tie Maxi Dress
Why choose it? This one’s for when you want to feel both flirty and secure. The adjustable back tie defines the waist, and the pleated satin skirt adds shape without clinging to your lower belly.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Ruched Dresses with Waist-Cinching Detail
Why it works: Ruching is your best friend when it comes to softening the midsection. Whether it's a tie waist, pleated front, or a gently gathered panel, these styles bring structure where you want it and grace where you need it.
Sage Green Tie-Waist Chiffon Maxi Dress
Why choose it? When you want to feel light but still held in, this dress is a go-to. The tie-waist gently defines your shape while the chiffon fabric floats right over the tummy.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Glitter V-Neck Gown with Shimmer Pleats
Why choose it? If you're looking for sparkle without stiffness, this dress delivers. The pleats create texture across the waist and belly, while the short sleeves offer that perfect bit of upper-arm coverage.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Navy Blue Flutter Sleeve Applique Maxi Dress
Why choose it? The waist applique draws just enough attention upward, while the ruched bodice and flowing skirt do all the work of smoothing your middle. Ideal for weddings or dressy evening events.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Olive Green Satin Slit Dress
Why choose it? Chic but forgiving, this satin dress has a faux-wrap waist that sculpts the front while keeping things smooth and elegant. The side slit gives just enough drama to keep it evening-ready.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Halter Neckline Dresses with Elevated
Why it works: Halter necklines draw the eye upward, elongating the neckline and balancing out fuller midsections. Whether it's a sleek satin silhouette or a printed flowy hem, these styles give you shape and confidence—without clinging to the tummy.
Satin Halter Dress with Bow Back in Dusty Rose
Why choose it? If you're looking for sleek and sculpted without feeling tight, this is it. The soft satin hugs in the right places, while the back-tie bow adds charm and a little drama.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Convertible Halter Maxi Dress in Burgundy
Why choose it? This one adapts to you—literally. With multiple neckline options and a forgiving waistband, it smooths your belly while letting you style it your way.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Floral Satin Halter Gown with Back Bow
Why choose it? Delicate florals, a structured cut, and a halter neckline work together to visually lengthen your figure. The built-in structure smooths over the stomach for a clean finish.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Emerald Halter Slit Gown with Fitted Waist
Why choose it? This one's made for evening confidence. The crossover neckline defines the upper body while the fitted waist and slit balance the silhouette beautifully.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Black & Blue Floral High-Neck Ruffle Hem Dress
Why choose it? With a bold print and a fluttery hem, this dress draws the focus to your legs and shoulders. The relaxed fit through the middle makes it a no-stress choice for curvy girls.
Brand: Lulus
Wrap Formal Dresses (Maxi & Midi Styles)
Why it works: Wrap dresses are adjustable, forgiving, and always flattering on the waistline. Whether you’re apple- or hourglass-shaped, a flattering wrap evening dress can offer ease and elegance in one move.
Teal Strapless Satin Mermaid Dress with Slit
Why choose it? You want sleek, sculpted, and belly-friendly. This strapless wrap silhouette gathers softly at the waist and flows over the hips—ideal for women looking for a flattering satin formal dress that hides the tummy.
Brand: Windsorstore
Sage Green Ruffle Midi Dress with V-Neck & Flutter Sleeves
Emerald Satin Midi Wrap Dress with Spaghetti Straps
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Burgundy Lace Empire Midi Dress with Flutter Sleeves
Fit and Flare Dresses with Defined Waistlines
Why it works: This silhouette hugs your top half and floats gently past the belly, creating a natural hourglass shape. It’s perfect when you want to feel structured but still move with ease.
Gold Sequin Midi Dress
Why choose it? When you want something playful yet polished, this leaf sequin A-line dress brings just the right sparkle. The defined waist and flared skirt create that sought-after hourglass shape—perfect for a romantic evening or semi-formal wedding.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Plus Size Flutter Sleeve Chiffon Dress
Why choose it? You want a dress that makes you feel light, confident, and fully yourself. The cinched waist and flutter sleeves flatter curves effortlessly, while the soft pleats offer elegant movement.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Asymmetrical Hemline Dresses with Modern Edge
Why it works: The angled hemline visually lengthens the legs and adds movement—perfect for when you want a slimming high-low dress that’s anything but boring.
Navy High-Low Ruffle Hem Dress with Lace Sleeves
Why choose it? You want a dress that hugs in the right places but still lets you breathe. The ruffled hem and layered wrap front define the waist and camouflage the belly—ideal for curvy formal wear looks.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Dusty Blue Backless Chiffon Dress with Draped Hem
Why choose it? You're going for flowy and fresh. The spaghetti straps and soft asymmetrical hem create movement, while the ruched bodice keeps things flattering without clinging.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
Floral Wrap Maxi Dress with Side Ruffle
Why choose it? You want something playful and pretty that still slims. The faux wrap cut and strategic slit draw the eye down, helping hide the tummy without losing shape.
Brand: Ever-Pretty
