I’m a personal stylist, not a personal trainer, so, no crunches here—just real-life style advice to help you feel confident and beautiful in your clothes. This is part two of my mini-series on how to minimize a tummy over 50 using smart styling choices. Let’s jump right into the 20 summer styles that are on-trend right now and incredibly tummy-friendly.
Shop everything in this video here.
Peplum Tops
Floaty peplums in lace, eyelet, poplin, or linen are everywhere right now. They add shape and softness, skimming over the tummy area effortlessly. One favorite? The Banana Republic Factory peplum top—affordable, flattering, and easy to wear.
- BR Factory: https://stylists.shop/hiT
- Treasure & Bond: https://stylists.shop/hiU
- Treasure & Bond Lace: https://stylists.shop/hiV
Asymmetric Tie Tops
An asymmetric hem and tie detail (like the one from Ann Taylor) creates visual interest and define the waist without clinging. Structured fabrics make these tops a winner.
- Ann Taylor: https://stylists.shop/hiW
- Nation Luisa Top: https://stylists.shop/hiY
- LilySilk: https://stylists.shop/hiZ (use code Manley20)
Wrap Tops
A non-clingy wrap top like the one from Banana Republic flatters the tummy while pairing beautifully with wide-leg pants. The wrap draws attention to the waistline and away from the midsection.
- Donna Karan Sleeveless Top: https://stylists.shop/hj0
- Black Wrap Top: https://stylists.shop/hj1
- Red Wrap Top: https://stylists.shop/hj2
Wide-Leg Pants
High-waisted wide-leg pants like the ones from Old Navy, Holland Cooper, Spanx, and Quint are my go-to. The flat front waistband creates a smooth silhouette, and the flare balances proportions perfectly.
- Spanx Pants: https://stylists.shop/hj8
- Old Navy Pants: https://stylists.shop/hja
- Holland Cooper Pants: https://stylists.shop/hj9
Non-Clingy Wrap Dresses
Today’s wrap dresses are structured, gauzy, or linen rather than clingy jersey. Brands like Vince and Faith and Hope offer stunning options that float away from the tummy.
- Navy Wrap Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjf
- Black/White Wrap Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjg
- Vince Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjd
Tiered Dresses
The A-line shape with tiered detailing adds volume in all the right places, skimming over the tummy. Just make sure the waist starts above the fullest part of your tummy for the most flattering look.
- Brown Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjn
- Blue Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjk
- Printed Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjm
Tie Front or Tie Side Tops
Modern tie front tops are minimalist and sculptural, not flimsy or dated. The ties add just enough detail to draw the eye and flatter the waistline.
- Nordstrom Side Tie Top: https://stylists.shop/hjp
- Rag & Bone Front Tie Top: https://stylists.shop/hjq
Structured Waist-Length Tops
If tucking isn’t your thing, try waist or high-hip length tops made from substantial fabrics like cotton, linen, or lace. The key is ending the top at a flattering spot above the fullest part of your tummy.
- Striped Top: https://stylists.shop/hjs
- Eyelet Top: https://stylists.shop/hju
Flowy Skirted Dresses
A-line or fit-and-flare dresses with the waistline placed strategically above the tummy area skim beautifully and create a lovely shape.
- Treasure & Bond Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjv
- Smocked Top Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjx
Linen Pants
Skip the smocked waist. Look for flat front linen pants with a bit of stretch in the back (like Quint’s) for comfort without extra bulk around the tummy.
- Quince Linen Pants: https://stylists.shop/hjy
- Striped Linen Pants: https://stylists.shop/hjz
- Cream Linen Pants: https://stylists.shop/hjA
Vests
Vests are my secret weapon this summer. Structured, flattering, and endlessly versatile—they cover without clinging and create a beautiful waistline thanks to the V-shape.
- Mango Vest: https://stylists.shop/hjC
Pleated Waist Dresses
Pleated waist details add soft structure, shaping the waist while gently skimming the tummy.
Ted Baker Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjH
Longer Shaped Tops
Longer tops with waist definition are perfect if you want some length without sacrificing shape. The Veronica Beard structured top is a standout.
- Madewell Scoopneck Vest: https://stylists.shop/hjD
- Veronica Beard: https://stylists.shop/hjE
Short Swing Dresses
Flowy, shorter swing dresses balance proportions and skim over the tummy without looking boxy.
- Red Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjJ
- Navy Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjI
- Striped Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjK
Sheer Overlay Tops
Modern sheer overlays (mesh, lace, or open-knit) layered over fitted camis offer tummy camouflage without bulk. Spanx camis under a light pointelle sweater? Magic.
- Sheer Sweater: https://stylists.shop/hjM
- Lace Top: https://stylists.shop/hjL
Ruched Dresses
Modern side ruched dresses (like those from Mango) are incredibly flattering. The asymmetry adds interest and helps hide tummy bulges.
- Mango Medium Blue Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjN
- Nordstrom Light Blue Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjO
- Nation LTD Navy Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjP
Tummy-Taming Pants
Spanx, Wit & Wisdom, and other brands offer built-in tummy panels for extra control. Even basic stretch jeans offer a bit of compression and smoothing.
- Wit & Wisdom Pants: https://stylists.shop/hjQ
- Kira Grace: https://stylists.shop/hjR
- Spanx: https://stylists.shop/hjS
Swing Tops
Short, breezy swing tops like Quince’s cotton-silk peasant top are perfect for hot days, providing shape without cling.
Quince Cotton Silk Blouse: https://stylists.shop/hjT
A-Line Dresses
A-line dresses glide over the tummy. Belted versions offer extra waist definition, while shorter unbelted styles avoid looking shapeless.
- Floral Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjU
- Blue Dress: https://stylists.shop/hjV
Smocked Waist Dresses (Bonus)
I had to add these! Smocked waist dresses like my beloved Quince version are flattering, comfortable, and define the waist beautifully without adding tummy bulk.
Quince Smocked Waist Silk Dress: https://stylists.shop/hk8
My Favorite Tummy-Friendly Outfits
- Steve Madden Silver Ruched Two-Piece Set: Bodycon but forgiving thanks to the ruching.
- Quince Smocked Waist Dress: My ride-or-die dress—wear it anywhere, anytime.
- Black Ponte Set from Quince: Structured top and pants for a sleek, slimming look.
- Wide-Leg Jeans + Cami + Blazer Formula: A personal favorite that’s flattering and polished.
- LilySilk Floral Dress: Hits at all the right spots and flows beautifully.
- Petite Studio Vest Over Knit Dress: The vest adds structure and creates a waistline over a knit base.
- Petite Studio Jumpsuit: Belted wide-leg silhouette lengthens and slims.
- Grey State Black Ruched Waist Dress: Rouching defines the waist without clinging.
- White Lace Top + Wide-Leg Jeans + Brown Accessories: Spring/summer perfection.
- Petite Studio Shaped Waist Top + Denim Skirt: Defined waistline and tummy coverage all in one.
At the end of the day, this is about dressing for YOU. If your tummy bothers you, these styles and tips give you tools to feel confident in your clothes without frustration. I hope this guide has been helpful. Let me know your questions in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe so we can keep hanging out!
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