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Fitted dresses are a hit or miss . . . well, most often times a miss. While some may not feel just right, the right dress will be just fitted enough to to flatter your figure, even more so than drapey options. Not sure what that looks like? These 17 dresses are great examples — they all cinch, slim and make any figure appear like an hourglass.
It’s all in the details. Strategic ruching, pleating, fit-to-flare constructions and empire waists are just a few key elements. Even better, our picks start at just $15! Whether you’re looking for a lazy errand outfit or an office-ready getup, these shaping dresses have you covered.
17 Shaping Dresses to Fake an Hourglass Figure — From $15
1. Cozy Class: A wool-blend material, pleated skirt and silhouette-enhancing design are just a few highlights of this sophisticated sweater dress.
2. Mock-Neck Maven: Lengthen your torso without even trying in this lantern-sleeve knit dress that comes in endless fall colors.
3. Wedding Guest: Get ready for compliments. This elegant off-the-shoulder dress combines a pencil skirt and drapey top to shape without squeezing.
4. Affordable Stunner: This long-sleeve mini subtly frames the waist thanks to the ribbed material, asymmetrical hemline and ruching where it counts.
5. Thanksgiving Crush: It’s never too early to think ahead. This knit midi has a delicate fabric belt to hide bloating and food babies!
6. Bestseller Alert: Thousands of shoppers rave about this fuzzy high-neck mini that begs to be worn with tights and tall boots.
7. Flower Girl: Live somewhere warm? This stretchy flutter-sleeve number is as playful as it is chic.
8. Up or Down: Somewhere between casual and dressy, this sweater dress snatches the waist and lifts the bootie for a sexy, model-like figure.
9. Worth It: Everyone will think you scored this delicate lace maxi at a Hamptons boutique. The smocked bodice adds to the appeal.
10. Nautical Flair: Hey there, Miss Nantucket. This striped long-sleeve dress is preppy and modest with a classic knee length.
11. Effortlessly Refined: Look like the head of the country club in this simple yet stunning midi dress with a flirty U-neckline.
12. Office-Friendly: Elongate your torso and legs at the same time with this ribbed knit dress that’s enhanced with a vertically striped skirt.
13. Like Loungewear: Nobody would ever know this short-sleeve wrap-style maxi is secretly comfortable. At just $26, we’re grabbing multiple prints.
14. Little Black Dress: Universally flattering, this lantern-sleeve mini even conceals the upper arms. Wear it everywhere from casual brunches to luxe banquets.
15. Ultra-Polished: Dinner party? Work presentation? This unique cap-sleeve dress turns any event into a fashion show.
16. Layering Staple: Channel Hamptons vibes in this timeless tank dress that comes together in seconds with a blazer and sneakers.
17. Celebration-Ready: This shopping writer wore this shiny maxi dress for her birthday. Trust Us, it’s much more stylish than your average dress. Plus, built-in shapewear flattens the tummy in seconds.
