Plus Size Summer Outfits: Styling Tips for Radiant Warm-Weather Looks

oversize summer dress

Summer is a season that beckons everyone outdoors, with clear skies and balmy evenings making the perfect backdrop for everything from beach outings to park picnics.

But for plus-size women like me, the rise in temperatures brings the challenge of finding outfits that are not only stylish and on trend but also comfortable and confidence-boosting.

It’s a time of year that should celebrate body diversity, encouraging curvy women to shine in their own unique style.

As a plus-size woman, I’ve often faced difficulties finding clothes that fit well and make me feel great. That’s why I’ve become an advocate for fashion inclusivity, sharing tips and tricks on a fashion and lifestyle blog, and helping other plus-size women embrace their curves.

The key to mastering summer style lies in the essentials that cater to our silhouettes. From breezy dresses to the right swimwear, each piece is a building block to creating a summer wardrobe that feels as good as it looks.

Reader's Roadmap

Key Takeaways

  • Embrace body diversity by finding comfortable, stylish summer outfits that boost confidence.
  • Create a personalized summer style that celebrates and flatters the unique curves of plus-size women.
  • Invest in summer wardrobe essentials that cater to plus-size silhouettes for a feel-good season.

White One-SHoulder Top, Denim Shorts And Short Sleeved Tropical Print Kimono

White One-SHoulder Top, Denim Shorts And Short Sleeved Tropical Print Kimono
Photo: pinterest.com

Asymmetrical Sleeveless Tunik Shirt With Print And Black Shorts

Asymetrical Sleevles Tunik Shirt With Print And Black SHorts
Photo: pinterest.com

White Off Shoulder Puff Short Sleeved Top And Green Overall Shorts

White Off Shoulder Puff Short Sleeved Top And Green Overall Shorts
Photo: pinterest.com

Black Tube Top And Red Pleat Maxi Skirt

Black Tube Top And Red Pleat Maxi Skirt
Photo: pinterest.com

White Lace Linen Top And Blue Shorts

White Lace Linen Top And Blue Shorts
Photo: pinterest.com

Black Two Piece Swimsuit Coverup Set

Black Two Piece Swimsuit Coverup Set
Photo: pinterest.com

White Baby Doll Linen Mini Dress

White Babydoll Linen Mini Dress
Photo: pinterest.com

Blue Front Tied Tee With Red Floral Ankle Length Skirt

Blue Front Tied Tee With Red Floral Ankle Lenght Skirt
Photo: pinterest.com

White Sleeveless Top And Tan Maribel Pants

Wgite Sleevless Top And Tan Maribel Pants
Photo: pinterest.com

Off Shoulder Top And Pink Floral High Waist Midi Skirt

Off SHoulder Top And Pink Floral High Waist Midi Skirt
Photo: pinterest.com

Two Tone Shirt Dress

Two Tone Shirt Dress
Photo: pinterest.com

Turquoise Short Sleeved Botton Down Shirt And White Ruffle Hem Shorts

Turquise Short Sleev Botton Down Shirt And White Ruffle Hem Shorts
Photo: instagram.com

Plus Floral Knot Front Bikini Swimsuit With Beach Skirt

Plus Floral Knot Front Bikini Swimsuit With Beach Skirt
Photo: pinterest.com

Striped Maxi Dress And Cropped Denim Jacket

Striped MAxi Dress And Croped Denim Jaclet
Photo: pinterest.com

Empire Floeral Maxi Dress With Short Sleeves

Empire Gloeral Maxi Dress With Short Sleeves
Photo: instagram.com

Floral Halter Top And Pink Linen Shorts

Floral Haltertop And Pink Linen Shorts
Photo: pinterest.com

Bustier, Wide Legged Linen Pants, And Mesh Kimono Coverup

Bustier, Wide Legged Linen Pants And Mesh Kimono Coverup
Photo: pinterest.com

Chiffon Backless Halter Romper

Chiffon Backless Halter Romper
Photo: pinterest.com

Tropical Low Plunge Peekaboo Maxi Dress With High Slit

Tropical Low Plunge Peekaboo Maxi Dress With High Slit
Photo: instagram.com

Silk V Neck Top ith Pinstriped Two Piece Shorts And BLazer

Silk V Neck Top ith Pinstriped Two Piece Shorts And BLazer
Photo: instagram.com

Pink One Shoulder Empire Maxi Dress

Pink One Shoulder Empire Maxi Dress
Photo: instagram.com

Navy And White Reversible Wrapsuit

Navu And Whie Reversable Wrapsuit
Photo: pinterest.com

Orange Off Shoulder Straight Mini Dress

Orabge Off Shoulder Straight Mini Dress
Photo: pinterest.com

Denim Tied Shirt And Floral Pencil Midi Skirt

Denim Tied Shirt And Floral Pencil Midi Skirt
Photo: pinterest.com

Chiffon Balloon Sleeves Drape Pleated Double Layer Mini Dress

Chiffon Balloon Sleeves Drape Pleated Double Layer Mini Dress
Photo: pinterest.com

Green Linen V-Neck Blouse And High Rise Green Striped Shorts

Green Linen V-Neck Blouse And High Rise Green Striped Shorts
Photo: pinterest.com

Neon Floral Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress

Nenn Floral Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress
Photo: pinterest.com

Finding Your Summer Style

When it comes to summer style, especially in plus sizes, finding the right fit and flare is key.

I’ll guide you through identifying silhouettes that celebrate your shape, choosing colors and prints that express your personality, and selecting accessories that add that perfect touch.

Identifying Flattering Silhouettes

I’ve discovered that certain silhouettes highlight my curves in the best way during the summertime.

For instance, a plus size floral dress with an empire waist gives a comfortable fit and accentuates the bust.

On days I’m feeling casual, I opt for crop tops paired with high-waisted shorts or skirts which offer both comfort and style.

To feel breezy and free, I sometimes go for a maxi dress which floats effortlessly and is incredibly heat-friendly.

  • Empire waist dresses create a lovely profile
  • A-line skirts suit almost every body type
  • Pairing crop tops with high-waisted bottoms balances the silhouette

Exploring Color Palettes and Prints

Summer is all about bright colors and fun prints.

I love incorporating a pop of color with bright colored plus size graphic tees; they are easy to pair with neutral bottoms for a balanced look.

Another go-to is the effortless floral dress, which instantly ups my summer fashion game.

Don’t shy away from animal print; it can be a bold statement piece when used in moderation. White accessories also bring a fresh vibe to any outfit.

  • Bright colors: They make any outfit stand out
  • Floral and animal prints: Choose one as a focal point
  • White accessories: Keep things light and summery

Accessorizing for Impact

Accessories are my secret weapon for transforming any summer outfit.

I often add a statement necklace to a simple top to enhance my look.

Sunglasses are an essential that also double as a fashion statement.

For footwear, I balance comfort and style by alternating between sneakers for active days and sandals when I want to keep it chic and effortless.

  • Statement necklace: A bold piece can elevate a simple top
  • Sunglasses: Practical and stylish
  • Footwear: Sneakers for comfort, sandals for style

Summer Wardrobe Essentials

When I think about building a summer wardrobe, I focus on pieces that are both stylish and comfortable. The key is finding clothes that make you feel great and are practical for the season’s heatwave.

Top Picks for Tops and Tees

  • Graphic Tees: These are a must-have. I love pairing mine with biker shorts for a casual look or tucking them into a denim skirt for brunch with friends.
  • White Tee: It’s classic for a reason. A relaxed fit white tee goes with anything—denim shorts, white jeans, or layered under a slip dress.
  • Corset Top: For a fancier touch, a corset top with ruffles adds a romantic vibe to any outfit. I find them perfect for date night.

Bottoms That Beat the Heat

  • Midi Skirt: Breathable and chic, a midi skirt can take me from a day at the beach to a cozy cottagecore-inspired picnic.
  • Denim Shorts: I have them in various styles, from distressed to a neat dark wash. They’re basically my go-to every summer.
  • White Jeans: They lighten up any look. I always keep them handy for cooler evenings out.

Dresses for Every Occasion

  • Floral Maxi Dress: It’s an absolute favorite for its flowiness and ease. Whether I’m headed to the market or a garden party, it doesn’t disappoint.
  • Little Black Dress: Not just for winter, a light mini black dress can be a staple for summer nights.
  • Maxi Dress: The perfect throw-on for any time; I love a good maxi with sandals for an effortless look.

Swimwear and Beachwear

  • One-piece Swimwear: It offers both comfort and style.
  • My trick is finding one that doubles as a bodysuit with a pair of shorts.
  • Matching Set: Bikini or tankini sets are my go-to for pool days.
  • They make me feel put-together and ready for a chill day by the water.
  • Beach Cover-Up: I never hit the sand without one.
  • A breezy dress or a wrap skirt makes transitioning from beach to café totally seamless.

I am a mother, wife, daughter, granddaughter, writer, living in Virginia Beach. I love creativity, ideas, crafts, arts, photography, movies, food, coffee, naps, outdoors. I love to make stuff!