With the summer heat showing no signs of abating, finding comfortable yet stylish clothing can be a challenge, especially for plus-size shoppers. Writer Abha Shah has curated a list of seven dresses designed to keep you cool and chic through the remaining warm weeks.
Key fabrics and fit tips
Shah emphasises the importance of choosing natural fibres like linen, cotton, and silk, which allow air to flow freely, while avoiding synthetic materials that can trap heat. She also recommends chub rub shorts to prevent thigh chafing.
The top plus size dress picks
Monsoon Hattie Sleeveless Gingham Midi Dress in Orange (£75) – A cotton dress with a scooped neck, fitted bodice, and midi skirt, featuring an elasticated back and beaded bow trim. Available in sizes 10–24.
Nobody's Child Pure Cotton Halter Neck Midi Skater Dress (£62, was £89) – A backless halterneck design with a flowing midi skirt and side pockets. Available in sizes 8–24.
Never Fully Dressed Celestial Print V-Neck Midaxi Column Dress (£75) – Features celestial motifs, short ruffled sleeves, and an unlined skirt for breathability. Available in sizes 8–22.
ASOS DESIGN Curve Batwing Plait Ruched Waist Plisse Maxi Dress (£48) – A lightweight plisse maxi with cut-out details, quick-dry fabric, and no ironing required. Available in sizes 18–30.
George Brown Zebra Square Neck Strappy Satin Mini Dress (£16) – A satin mini with adjustable straps and a square neck. Available in sizes 8–24.
SIMPLY BE Stripe Linen Midi Dress (£44) – A versatile striped linen midi with a diagonal pattern and earthy/aqua palette. Available in sizes 18–32.
Shah suggests pairing these dresses with accessories like straw hats, espadrilles, or linen blazers to extend their wear into early autumn.
