Dresses for size 16-18

[TotallyAddictedToLurking]

What dresses would suit a size 16-18 frame? Causal and work wear.

I have a large chest and the weight is on my stomach mostly.

I don't have a huge budget, I usually buy my clothes from charity shops but I'm prepared to spend some money on new dresses.

Can anyone help? I am in desperate need of dresses that are flattering.

asos have lot of styles and go up to an 18/20.If you have a big chest and carry weight around your stomach area then i guess a wrap kind of style would look good,or maybe a skater shapes dress,or something with a shirred waist.

Wrap or mock wrap styles are your friend. Fit and flare dresses with v-necks are also good.

I think you really have to try things on and think how they would work with your lifestyle. For work I go to:
Phase 8
For the work/casual crossover go here though you need to be a bit careful. There are some very nice, simple pieces amongst the pattern mayhem. The velvet dresses in particular are warm and easy to wear.

I have a couple of dresses from label though they are quite pricey. I tend to buy mine on sale or on ebay. I think they are worth it because they are fantastically comfortable and can be dressed up or down. The balloon dresses are also fantastic at hiding the belly fat.

That second site you linked slug is batshit crazy!

If I want something nice I use Monsoon. I have a horrible overhang and big bust. Their dresses fit me well.

I have found Monsoon fit me well too, also Phase Eight and Joe Browns.

Are you short or tall? I recently bought this dress. Very nice for the price but it is short. I'm 5'2 and it is above the knee on me.

Wrap or mock wrap.. Or gathered over tummy great shape wear underneath or shape wear tights! The Primark shape opaque tights are fab.

Have you looked on eBay, much nicer than trawling charity shops.. Lots of good quality labels on there

Thank you everyone. I am going to spend the evening looking on ebay.

You have given me lots to be going on with