Calling all DDs, FFFs and anybody else who identifies as “well-endowed”: While the smaller-chested among us can often just throw on a frock and call it a day, we bustier ladies don’t have it quite as easy. Between uni-boobs and strapless bras, there’s a long list of occupational hazards that come with the chesty territory. That said, there are some styles that work phenomenally well on those with an ample bosom, both for those who want to minimize their girls and those who prefer to show them off. Here you’ll find the best dresses for big boobs, no matter your personal style. Now all you need is the right bra and you might find getting dressed in the morning to suddenly be a much breezier affair...
The Best Dresses for Big Boobs, Whether You Prefer to Minimize or Maximize Your Figure
Published May 10, 2023
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Boden/Anthropologie/DISSH
The Top 5 Dresses for Big Boobs at a Glance:
- Classic Wrap Design: Diane von FurstenbergPhoenix Wrap Dress ($558)
- Cut-Out Lace: Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress ($220)
- Button-Up Midi: Marvell Lane Willow Dress (
$190;$114) - Best Under $50: Zesica Bohemian Wrap Dress ($40)
- Best Wedding Guest Dress: Shoshanna Darcy Dress ($485)
Meet the Experts:
- Abby Hepworth is PureWow’s fashion editor and has more than a decade of experience writing about how to dress for your body type.
- Dena Silver is a former fashion editor and personal shopper who has worked for publications such as InStyle, The Daily Front Row and PureWow.
- Katie Maguire is a former commerce and fashion editor who covered all things shopping for PureWow, Shape and Well+Good.
Which Necklines and Silhouettes Are Most Flattering on Larger Chests?
- Wrap Dresses. Contrary to popular belief, large-chested women absolutely can—and should—rock a wrap style dress. “Wrap dresses help to pull everything inward to create the illusion of a more streamlined silhouette,” explains Maguire. “That means they have the power to make your waist look itty bitty and, when worn correctly, glide over your bust and hips without creating any unflattering bulging or bumps.” The key here is to size according to your bust, not your waist. These dresses are typically more flexible in terms of fit, since you wrap and tie them yourself (unlike a dress you zip up, which can only stretch so much before it rips). Sizing according to your widest part—in this case your chest–ensures little to no gaping or pulling in that area.
- Belted High-Neck Dresses. We love the comfort factor associated with high-neck tent dresses, but they can quickly turn your gorgeous silhouette into something that resembles a pumpkin with four toothpicks for arms and legs. “Crew and turtlenecks have the same tendency to turn us into amorphous blobs, offering no defining peeks at our clavicle,” warns Maguire. But there is an easy fix to turn both these styles into something both comfortable and flattering: Add a waist belt. “It doesn't even need to be cinched in tight, but this easy addition helps bring some shape and definition to your torso.”
- V-Neck Dresses. A deep V is sexy on just about everyone, but this is especially true for gals with big boobs. On the other hand, a more shallow plunge can be equally flattering, and still feels appropriate for work or dinner with the in-laws. “If you plan to go the va-va-voom route, look for styles that go no lower than that mid-point of your breasts,” Silver advises. “Any deeper and you risk your girls looking saggy.” For shorter Vs we prefer narrower styles, as opposed to those that start out near your shoulders, to really pull the eye inward for a narrower silhouette.
- Fit & Flare Dresses. Similar to the belted crewneck styles, these cinched-at-the-waist dresses create an hourglass figure no matter your natural silhouette, but they’re particularly flattering on ladies with big boobs. And while they work with just about any neckline, we especially love shallow V-necks and square neck options most of all for showing off your collarbone without getting too risqué.
- Sheath Dresses. A sheath dress is defined by its straight, fitted cut with a nipped in waist (not to be confused with a shift dress, which falls straight from the shoulders with darts in the bust to add shape). They work very well for women with larger boobs but an otherwise fairly straight figure. Unlike a bodycon dress, which puts it all on display, a sheath isn’t skin tight so you don’t have to worry about showing off every lump or bump even as you show off your curves.
Which Necklines and Silhouettes Should Women with Larger Chests Avoid?
- Empire Waists. “Shirts that severely nip in at the waist—especially those with seams just centimeters below your boobs—can often appear to be a maternity style on your frame,” advises Silver. Instead, she suggests looking for silhouettes that skim your curves or that have a drop waist, which will provide the added benefit of elongating your torso
- Tops with Bra Details. You don’t rock shirts with shelf bras for a reason; they just don’t work. “A shirt with an external bra that’s fit for a B-cup isn’t going to magically work with your gals,” says Silver. “It’s going to work against them and probably cut them off awkwardly.”
- Button Down Shirtdresses—with a Caveat! We can all agree that there’s nothing worse than dressing for work and getting to your desk, only to realize the buttons on your bust are mere moments from bursting open. As Silver notes, “Most button-downs are not made for us busty gals and even oversized versions can be wildly unflattering...but there are a few brands who have started developing these work-friendly shirts [and shirtdresses] for our bodies.” She recommends Perfectedd, Universal Standard and Pari Passu.
- Size Range: US 00 to 16
- Pros: fully adjustable wrap, made from stretchy jersey, timeless design
- Cons: high price point
You can’t talk about wrap dresses without bringing up the woman who perfected the silhouette and made it into the must-have item it is today, Diane von Furstenberg. Although she and other designers have continued to play around with the silhouette for years, it’s proven near impossible to improve on her OG mid-length, jersey design, especially in a geometric pattern. This particular abstract floral print further helps create the illusion of a nipped-in waist and doesn’t outline your form in the same way as stripes (vertical or horizontal) to actually down play your chest rather than emphasize it.
- Size Range: XXS to 3X, also Petite
- Pros: versatile design, machine washable, smocked waist
- Cons: V neckline is not adjustable
This best-selling dress from Anthropologie is an absolute must-have, in our opinion, because of the comfortable, floaty material and the super-flattering fit. The V neck is just low enough to show some skin without actually being low enough for your cleavage, and the flowy sleeves help to draw the eye up to your gorgeous face while the ruched middle nips in your waist. Some reviewers say it runs a bit big, but for larger cups that just means extra room to accommodate your bust, so we suggest going with your usual size. Oh, and did we mention it’s also machine washable? Score!
- Size Range: US 8 to 14
- Pros: specifically made for bigger busts, made from lightweight cotton, has pockets, neckline is elasticated
- Cons: limited color options
Looking for even more big bust-specialized fashion brands? Be sure to add Marvell Lane to your list. It focuses mostly on swimwear and lingerie, but there are also some gorgeous dresses and separates to shop as well. Even better, the sizing is specific to different cup ranges—D-F and G-J—so you can feel more confident both the top and bottom halves of your new lace frock will fit exactly the way they’re supposed to. Plus, the neckline is fully elasticated so you can have some fun switching this up with an off-the-shoulder silhouette.
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Pros: under $50, lots of colors to choose from
- Cons: hand wash only
This Amazon bestseller comes in tons of gorgeous boho prints in a wide range of colors, all for under $50. But the best part about the Zesica Ruffle Wrap is that it is a true wrap, meaning the belted waist is entirely adjustable, which is tough to find for under 100 bucks. There is also plenty of fabric to ensure your gals are as covered as you want them to be. As one reviewer says, “I have never been more excited to write a review—I am 5 foot 3 and my breast size is a triple D, sometimes an E. Being short and curvy it’s really hard to find something that fits in all the right areas but this dress fit like a glove and made me look absolutely beautiful.” (P.S. The brand recommends those with larger chests go one size up to ensure a better fit.)
- Size Range: US 0 to 14
- Pros: great for weddings and special events, made specifically for bigger busts
- Cons: high price point
When Shoshanna Gruss started her namesake company it was because she struggled to find cute clothing that also allowed for larger cup size. Twenty-plus years later and she has essentially perfected the art dressing both chicly and modestly without looking dowdy. And her best pieces are her eveningwear, like this lace midi which could be made to work for basically any season. Just add a colorful handbag and some vibrant statement earrings for summer, pastels for spring, complimentary navy accessories for fall or pearls and black pumps for winter. Trust us, this one is well worth the investment.
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Pros: fully adjustable belt, comes in unique handblocked prints, made from super-lightweight material
- Cons: high price point
This easy mini comes in a ton of fun prints and solid hues, and has become something of a cult hit among fashion influencers and editors. Each one comes with a matching rope belt, but they look equally cute with a contrasting ribbon or leather style if you want to switch things up. According to the measurements listed, there isn’t much difference in sizing when it comes to the body of the dress; larger sizes are simply a bit longer in length. Speaking of, tall gals may find this floaty mini to be a bit too mini, but on petite frames it should hit just right. Just be sure to cinch in that waist to avoid overwhelming your figure with all that fabric.
- Size Range: US 14 to 32
- Pros: made specifically for plus sizes, comes with a removable belt, also available in yellow and navy
- Cons: fabric has little to no stretch
This sleeveless wrap may not be fully adjustable, but it was designed specifically for plus sizes with larger busts, so won’t be nearly as low-cut or tight in the top as other brands. And the belt is adjustable, so you can knot it in front, in back, tighter, looser—whatever feels best on your figure. Because the fabric has very little stretch, we recommend going up one from your usual size to ensure enough room in the top.
- Size Range: US 4 to 12
- Pros: designed specifically for bigger busts, machine washable
- Cons: limited size range
Alice Fawke is a brand fully dedicated to those with larger busts, so you can feel confident adding any and everything to cart knowing it will fit just right. That said, this fit-and-flare midi with a slight V-neck has to be one of our favorite overall picks. The collar detail makes this frock feel more polished than traditional V-necks, and we are obsessed with the matching notch details on the cuffs. Because the brand is based in the U.K., be sure to double check the size chart before you order.
- Size Range: XS to XXL
- Pros: super comfortable, stretchy material, comes with a removeable slip lining
- Cons: hand wash only
We’re kind of obsessed with this Australian brand, which specializes in luxe-looking basics with a chic twist. But this particular sheath dress is definitely top of our list for two main reasons. First, the stretchy material will easily adjust to fit your figure beautifully, with no tugging or pulling, so you don’t have to stress quite so much over your measurements. Second, the rich brown hue fits right in with one of summer 2023’s biggest color trends and looks incredibly luxurious (and flattering). It’s also lightweight to prevent you from overheating, and there is a matching removable lining as well.
- Size Range: US 0 to 14
- Pros: belt tabs are adjustable, bra friendly, has pockets
- Cons: high price point
We adore this twist on a classic belted, high-neck dress, which features two straps at the waist you can adjust with the attached D rings. Each allows you to cinch or loosen depending on your preferred fit, without the classic bow tied at your middle. It also has pockets (score!), and is bra-friendly, so there’s no fussing with trying to hide straps. Our only gripe? This beauty is dry clean only.
- Size Range: US 2 to 22, also Long
- Pros: fully adjustable wrap, made from eco-friendly materials,machine washable
- Cons: prints may be too busy for some
This adorable mini has a fully adjustable waist tie and also comes in long lengths, so tall women and those with longer torsos can find a better fit. Plus, the puffed sleeves and ruffle hem further help to create the illusion of a smaller waist, while simultaneously downplaying your bust. One reviewer who wears a size 34E bra writes, “The dress fits really well and the colors are beautiful. The material is a soft, stretchy jersey. If you're busty it might look a little low cut/revealing.”
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Pros: adjustable ties at the waist, ruffled shoulders draw the eye upward
- Cons: dry clean only
Yes, this vibrant midi is low cut, but the V neckline is also fairly narrow, allowing you to show just the right amount of cleavage to feel sexy but not too overt. Plus, there are two beaded, adjustable ties at the waist to give you more flexibility with the fit. In fact, we suggest going up one from your usual dress size, for ample room in the bust, and then tightening the ties in the waist to combat the fact that the fabric has very little by way of stretch.
- Size Range: US 0 to 14
- Pros: made specifically for bigger busts, under $100, adjustable straps, great for weddings and special occasions
- Cons: dry clean only
Did you know that ASOS has an entire collection designed specifically for women with bigger boobs? Yup, the ASOS Fuller Bust line caters to the DD and up crowd, taking all the brand’s must-have favorites and adjusting them to better fit larger cup sizes. That includes this timeless navy midi that can be worn to cocktail parties, wedding receptions and the like throughout the year. The straps are also fully adjustable, as is the tie at the waist, to give you more wiggle room with the fit.
- Size Range: US 2 to 22, also Petite
- Pros: made from 100 percent cotton, machine washable, has pockets, fully lined
- Cons: few color options
Did we mention how much we love smocked materials? The midi features a super-stretchy bodice to better fit both your boobs and your waist, so you can order your usual size without stressing over it being too tight up to. And the ruffles on the neck and sleeves? Both gorgeous and great for drawing the eye up to your face and helping to minimize your bosom. This is an ideal summer frock, made from lightweight cotton that will keep you cool on even the hottest, most humid afternoons. Plus, right now you can score 20 percent off with code R7Q8.
- Size Range: US 14 to 28
- Pros: waist tie is adjustable, multiple color options, machine washable
- Cons: runs a bit big
The belt feature is actually built right into this best-selling Eloquii frock, but don’t fret, it’s still fully adjustable and can be tied in multiple ways to best flatter your figure. We also love the subtle draping effect the belt has on the bust to help de-emphasize your chest further. And if you prefer the look of a contrasting or leather belt, you can simply wrap the belt around your waist and tuck or pin the ends before covering it with your preferred belt of choice. It also comes in five bright, cheerful hues, but our fingers are crossed Eloquii releases some neutrals, like black or white, as well.
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Pros: under $100, smocked bodice
- Cons: hand wash only
For those looking to show off their clavicle we love this smocked, off-the-shoulder midi in a very seasonally-appropriate black-and-white gingham print. According to reviews, this dress runs true to size, but some women with big boobs found they were more comfortable going up one from their usual. Per one size 36DDD reviewer, “This dress is perfect if you are looking for something flowy yet flattering. I purchased this dress for our honeymoon, and wore it a second time to a friend’s wedding. I received so many compliments and it photographs so well. Due to my height, I did have to have it hemmed. The top is stretchy and ideal for girls who are busty like myself. I highly recommend if you are looking for something comfortable and classy.”
- Size Range: XXS to XL, also Petite and Tall
- Pros: machine washable, stretchy material, adjustable straps, has pockets
- Cons: limited size range
For a subtly sexy look, this strappy midi dress shows off your décolletage while providing coverage on your lower half for a gorgeous balance of spicy and sweet. The straps on the top are adjustable and the material does have a bit of stretch, but we suggest ordering based on your largest measurement (likely your bust) to ensure you have enough room up top. Then have fun dressing it up with some strappy sandals and statement earrings for dinner out with your girlfriends, or down with some easy flats and a straw tote bag for weekend errands.
- Size Range: XXS to XL
- Pros: smocked skirt, bra friendly, versatile design
- Cons: limited size range
Smocking is a great way to ensure a comfortable fit for a range of body types, which is why we recommend this mini dress for those with smaller hips and a larger bust. Choose your size based on your upper half (there’s not much stretch in the material as is), and know that the versatile smocked skirt will still fit your bum and hips as needed. This cutie is also made from 100 percent cotton and is machine washable (although we suggest laying it flat to dry to prevent shrinking).
- Size Range: US 2 to 14
- Pros: made specifically for bigger busts, Italian jersey material won’t wrinkle, versatile design
- Cons: dry clean only
Miriam Baker is all about clothing designed to flatter a fuller bust, including this chic and easy fit-and-flare dress. The rose-colored hue is so flattering on a wide range of skin tones, and the polished silhouette can be dressed up or down to fit just about any occasion. We also love the asymmetrical seam at the hips for a luxurious and flattering touch. We highly recommend double checking the brand’s size guide before you add to cart (just to be safe), but otherwise reviews seem to suggest this cutie runs true to size.
- Size Range: XS to XL
- Pros: under $100, adjustable belt, made from lightweight, breathable material
- Cons: limited size range
We’re not sure which detail we love most, the Goldilocks-length V neckline or the subtle high-low hemline, both of which make this frock look far more expensive than its under-$100 price tag. The matching adjustable belt also helps give some shape to your figure so you don’t look frumpy in an otherwise breezy silhouette. Reviews suggest it runs big, so we would double check the size chart before you add to cart.
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Abby Hepworth is an RRCA-certified running coach who has worked in fashion for over 10 years. Want to know what shoes are in this season? She's got you. Need recommendations on the best running apps? She's your gal. From trend explanations to designer gossip, Abby has your back.
PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
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