Summer dresses for size 16-18

[Cocochai]

We are going on a beach holiday for the first time in many years and I am thinking about dresses but I have little idea of what suits me as I never wear them.

I am looking for recommendations please for who does flattering dresses for size 16-18, pear shape, 5’5, in plain darker colours, no loud patterns or clingy fabrics like jersey.

I have previously had a personal shopper at John Lewis for a wedding guest dress but this time I am more looking at M&S prices. While I am have a big stomach and can easily look pregnant in the wrong shape clothing, shapeless linen dresses ie Next or jersey tunics make me look even bigger all over when I do actually have a waist.

I don’t want to spend a lot as I am losing weight, hence no more than M&S prices.

Try New Look petite range

https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/dresses/womens-race-dresses/petite-black-spot-poplin-short-puff-sleeve-tie-back-mini-dress/p/856564809

https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/dresses/petite-black-shirred-puff-sleeve-tiered-midi-dress/p/856701501

https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/dresses/petite-black-button-front-midi-dress/p/856533201

https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/dresses/petite-white-broderie-frill-trim-midi-dress/p/828631810

Is it a hot place op? If it’s Greece/the Med in mid summer you’ll want something strappy and cool.

This?

100% cotton broderie anglaise thus cool in hot weather, flattering neckline for pear shape, drawstring belt, dark colour...

https://www.vinted.co.uk/women/clothes/dresses/midi-dresses/2815086239-per-una-summer-midi-dress-size-18-bnwt

https://www.oysho.com/gb/beachwear/dresses-i-jumpsuits-c1010508179.html

Oysho have lots of dresses, kaftans and trousers in linen/cotton for about £40-60.

I really love their stuff (I live in a hot country and find a lot of styles/fabric weight is perfect). Their linen is so much softer/lighter than H&M, Zara, Mango or M&S.
They also get new stock fairly regularly so even if you can’t find a design you like now there may well be something in a few weeks.

@Niftythrifter thanks, I like these. I’ve never really considered New Look as I thought they were for the very ‘young’.

@UWhatNow it will be mid/late 20’s max

@CriticalThinkingNeeded thanks, I like that so will have another look

@Monkeymonkeymoo their clothes look lovely and vibrant, especially the linen items. I’ve never heard of them so will be taking a good look.

I have 3 or 4 Scarlett and Jo pocket dresses..comfy and cool on holiday and easy to dress up or down. I've worn the same one to the beach with flip flops as I wore with a fascinator and heels to ladies day at the races. Perfect for holidays.