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Summer is a time when many of us dread pulling out our lighter clothing, so finding a flattering dress is a must-have for the new season. 

Whether you're looking for a tummy-flattering dress or a waist-enhancing style, we've searched high and low for the most flattering dresses for your summer wardrobe refresh that will help you look and feel your best in 2023. Plus, advice from the experts on the best styles to choose to create your desired silhouette. 

From figure-flattering wrap dresses to waist-cinching shirt dresses, scroll our edit of the best tummy-flattering dresses from M&S, Mango, H&M and more.

What are the most flattering dress styles?

Dresses that contain statement areas such as knot fronts or ruching are great for covering the areas that you feel less confident with. Belted dresses are great for cinching the waist to enchance the figure, and wrap dresses are super flattering too for creating a feminine silhouette.  

Best tummy-flattering dresses 

Tummy-flattering knot dresses 

Knot dresses not only bring you in at the waist, but when the knot design is placed at the front, it works to distract from any lumps and bumps that you may wish to hide. There are so many flattering knot dresses to choose from, and we think M&S's satin blue midi is so gorgeous for your next date night. 

River Island's stunning marble print midi dress features a knot front across the stomach area. The knot front is super flattering on the figure, and combined with the floaty silhouette, it will disguise any bloating that occurs throughout the day. Perfect for weddings or summer occasions, the printed midi would look so lovely teamed with a pair of bright strappy heels. 

Mango's embroidered brown dress proves that bodycon dresses can still be extremely flattering, with its knot front and thigh-high slit. The twisted knot detailing pulls in the waist for a waist-cinching shape, and the slit will elongate the legs when styled with a pair of heels.

When positioned across the chest area, knot detailing can also exaggerate the bust area to even out proportions. New Look's animal print mini dress features a flit and flare design, and the romantic floaty sleeves are also super flattering on the arms. 

Tummy-flattering wrap dresses

Wrap dresses are flattering on all body types as the cinched waist paired with the V-neck design enhances the hips and bust to give a slimming effect. Wrap dresses are a great staple for all year, but we particularly love them for summer. A floral wrap dress teamed with a pair of white trainers and a light jacket will create the prettiest daywear look. 

Celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson, who has worked with the likes of Fearne McCann, Kate Ferdinand and more, told us: "The wrap dress is an easy go-to. It works for all body types as the v-neck works for smaller and larger chests and can be tied to pull you in at the waist. Go for a cobalt blue or bring in a print to work this style into your trends."

Ghost's floral wrap dress is just perfect for summer with its relaxed design and adjustable wrap finish. Style with chunky sandals and a crossbody bag, or dress the look up with white heels. 

Not only does In The Style's swirl print dress feature a waist-cinching wrap fit, but it also contains flattering balloon sleeves and a ruffled hem to complete the look. 

Nothing says summer staple more than a linen dress. & Other Stories' floral frock offers a V-neckline, puffed sleeves and a wrap waist secured with spaghetti ties. Lovely! 

Tummy-flattering belted dresses 

Similarly to wrap dresses, belted dresses create an hourglass silhouette by highlighting the waist. Shirt dresses are a great option for combining comfort and style, and you can elevate your figure even further by teaming one with a pair of heels to elongate the legs.

Ellis revealed:  "A belt can be your best accessory, whether you add to your shirt dress or opt for a dress that already has a belt." 

It's no secret that black is one of the most flattering colours on the figure, and New Look's mini shirt dress ties in perfectly at the waist with its buckled belt.

Karen Millen is filled with stylish occasion dresses, and this stunning abstract print midi is our favourite. It features a halterneck and a pleated finish, and it would look just as elegant styled with gladiator sandals as it would heels.

ASOS's pink shirt dress is great for injecting some colour into your summer wardrobe, and the tie belt elevates the look for the ultimate day-to-night piece.

Tummy-flattering ruched dresses

There are so many ruched dress styles to choose from, but the trick is to find one that drapes in the areas that you feel least comfortable with. Whether the dress ruches at the waist, bust, or hips, the timeless style is a great option for formal wear. 

This Stella McCartney dress is an investment piece that you'll want to keep for a lifetime. It features ruching across the chest with a waist-cinching removable belt - and it's the epitome of elegance. 

New Look's hot pink midi dress enhances the silhouette with its figure-skimming design, perfectly complemented by the ruffled detailing. 

Reiss is a go-to for timeless occasion styles, and this navy maxi dress drapes in all the right places. Wear with gold heels and a matching clutch for a classy evening look. 

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