Ladies with tummies, what's your most flattering style of dress?

[LovelyDaffs]

I have a post baby tummy - only problem is that the baby is 8 years old . I'd like to make myself some summer dresses as I enjoy sewing, but the downside of making things for yourself is that you obviously don't get to try the style on first. I haven't bought a summer dress for ages, so wondered what styles any of you have found to be flattering.

I'm a size 16, 5'7" people often think I'm a smaller size than a 16 - I think it's being reasonably tall.

watching with interest!

Im 5'7" and a 16 too, I also have a DD bust so for me the key thing is how it is shaped around the bust. If it falls directly down I look HUGE, its got to be fitted under the bust IYSWIM. Also I find the fabric makes a big difference, a heavyish jersey cotton can be really flattering as it skims, or a silky cotton is also good. I find a stiff cotton sticks out too much and adds the illusion of bulk. I'd hit the shops and try some things on to get your inspiration becasue even though we are the same size on paper we might suit different things.

Oh yeah, big pants are my bestest friend when it comes to wearing summer dresses....

A dress that comes in at the waist then flares out. Preferably with a waist seam and a belt (bias-cut just clings horribly). Also control pants ...!

When my tummy was pretty big, every dress looked wrong on me. I looked much better in a skirt and top. I think it depends on your overall shape, not just on your tummy.