How to Look Good in a Sundress: Simple Tricks That Work

If you think sundresses are only for people with model bodies, think again. The real secret? It’s not about changing your shape—it’s about finding a sundress that celebrates it. Ignore the idea that there’s such a thing as a universal ‘perfect dress.’ Everyone has something to show off, and the right cut brings it out.

Take a quick look at yourself in the mirror. Not in a harsh, judgey way—just figure out if you’re more curvy, have a small waist, or maybe fabulous shoulders. Sundresses come in all kinds of shapes: A-line, wrap, fit-and-flare. The A-line is a solid choice for most people since it skims over hips and balances things out. If your waist is your power move, go for a dress with a belt or some elastic. Wider straps are a win if you want support, and spaghetti straps can show off collarbones. Honestly, there’s no wrong answer—just choices that make you feel more like you.

• Find a Sundress That Flatters Your Shape
• Pick Colors and Patterns That Pop
• Accessorize Without Overdoing It
• Feel Good So You Look Good

Find a Sundress That Flatters Your Shape

The biggest trick to looking good in a sundress? Nailing the fit. That doesn’t mean squeezing into something just because it’s trendy. Think more about what actually makes you feel great—because confidence seriously shows.

Start with knowing your shape. Fashion studies from 2023 show that dresses are the most comfortable summer choice for 78% of women, but what matters most is not the brand, it’s the cut that feels right for your body. There’s no “one size fits all.”

• Sundress styles like A-line work wonders if you want to even out hips and shoulders. It’s the go-to for a reason: the shape flatters most body types by gently flaring out from waist down.
• Wrap sundresses are magic for giving you more waist definition. If you feel like your waist is missing in action, wraps add shape in all the right places (plus, they're adjustable). They're also a favorite among stylists for being super forgiving after a big brunch.
• Empire waists—where the dress cinches just under your bust—are perfect if you want to highlight the smallest part of your upper body and take the attention up and away from hips or tummy.
• Got broad shoulders? Try a halter or thicker straps to break up the shoulder line. Spaghetti straps or off-the-shoulder cuts show off collarbones and flatter smaller frames.
• Nobody wants underarm squeeze. Double-check armhole fit. Sundresses should never dig or bunch; otherwise, they’ll look (and feel) off all day.

Let’s make this visual. Here’s a quick table breaking down some reliable sundress styles for different body shapes:

Quick tip: ignore dress sizes. Every brand fits different, especially with summer fashion. Focus on drape, comfort, and what makes you stand a bit taller. You’ll know you’ve found your dress when you don’t fiddle with it all day.

Pick Colors and Patterns That Pop

Your sundress choice gets way easier when you know what colors make your skin glow. Seriously, a color that works with your undertone does half your work for you. If you tan easily or have warm undertones—think yellow, honey, or olive skin—yellows, corals, reds, and earthy tones look awesome. If you lean on the cooler side with pink or blue hints in your skin, go for blues, purples, or crisp white. Neutral undertones? You’re the lucky one—pretty much everything works.

Patterns aren’t just about looking fun or summery. They do tricks for your body shape, too. Small prints, like tiny florals or polka dots, are kind to petite frames or anyone worried about looking swallowed by fabric. Larger prints and bold, blocky colors work for taller folks or if you want to draw the eye to a certain spot. If you’re not sure, stripes are a safe bet. Vertical stripes especially give a lengthening effect.

• Feeling bold? Go with a color or pattern you’d usually skip—studies say wearing bright colors can actually boost your mood.
• If you hate sweat stains, skip grays and try prints or colors like navy or patterned florals—they hide marks better, no joke.

Let’s get nerdy for a second—a 2023 industry survey found that nearly 70% of people are drawn to dresses in colors that remind them of summer: think teal, bright red, lemon yellow, and classic white. Lighter colors also reflect sunlight, which means less heat soaking into your dress. Sundress shopping isn’t just about the weather, but the weather does help you decide!

Patterns can be really personal, so go with one that makes you smile. If you love it, chances are it suits you more than anything a magazine stylist might suggest.

Accessorize Without Overdoing It

Accessories can make or break your sundress look. Too much, and you end up distracting from the whole point: easy, breezy summer style. The best approach? Keep things light and effortless.

Start with the basics. A simple pendant necklace draws attention up with almost any neckline. Stud earrings work with everything, but if your dress has thin straps, hoop earrings or dangly types can highlight your neck and shoulders. No need to match every piece—the cool, relaxed vibe is what makes the sundress work.

Try to stick to one statement piece. Think of bold sunglasses or a fun straw hat. If you add a chunky bracelet or a bright tote bag, skip the big necklace. As stylist Jamie Schneider puts it,

"A sundress already does a lot, so let your accessories support, not compete."

Barely-there sandals or casual white sneakers keep things modern (and comfy). Heels can work, but save the stilettos for later—the average person walks 2.5 to 3 miles at summer events, so pick shoes that can go the distance.

One last point—don’t forget sunscreen. Not glamorous, but nothing ruins the sundress vibe faster than sunburn. So grab your must-have stash, pick one or two add-ons, and head out. Simple and smart wins every time.

Feel Good So You Look Good

Your vibe in a sundress really comes down to how comfortable and confident you feel wearing it. Research from the Fashion Psychology Institute (2023) found that people who feel good in their clothes are rated as more attractive by others—even if the actual outfit isn’t fancy. Confidence is a real thing people pick up on. In other words, your attitude is half the look.

Most of us have small things we worry about in summer clothes, like chafing or sweat. These fixable little annoyances can ruin the whole sundress mood. Here’s what helps:

• Stay cool: Try moisture-wicking fabric or a light cotton slip underneath. This makes a bigger difference than you think.
• Chafe-proof your thighs: Grab an anti-chafing stick or try those seamless slip shorts meant for under dresses. They’re lifesavers during a heatwave.
• Undergarments that fit: If you’re tugging at your bra or constantly checking visible panty lines, everything else gets harder. Get some comfy, smooth basics—everything fits and drapes better.

If you’ve ever felt weird about arms, legs, or anything else showing, you’re not alone. A 2024 survey by YouGov showed that 67% of women have skipped wearing certain outfits in hot weather due to body worries. Imagine the summer fun that gets missed.

Instead of stressing, focus on feeling good for you, not whoever is out there judging. Take a selfie. Wear bold sunglasses. Throw on your favorite sundress and remind yourself—if you’re comfy, you look great.

The easiest hack? Smile. You’re doing summer right.