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Smocked maxi dresses are that rare summer staple that solves every “I want to feel comfortable but look cute” dilemma. They highlight the waist, flatter the silhouette and glide over the midsection — all while being airy and breathable. They’re the styles you want to grab for on days you’re feeling bloated, but still want a polished, one-and-done outfit.
From boutique-worthy prints to vacation-ready fabrics, these dresses bring all of the style and none of the stress. And with prices starting at just $19, you can pick up one (or three) without busting your budget.
16 Smocked Maxi Dresses That Cleverly Conceal Bloat
For Daytime Plans
1. Our Favorite: Amazon can’t keep this short sleeve maxi in stock . . . and we think it’s because of its waist-slimming design.
2. Gorgeous Gingham: Seamlessly go from brunches to baby showers in the flowy gingham dress over 2,000 Amazon shoppers added to their closets last month.
3. Boutique-Worthy: Serving major boutique energy, this floral A-line maxi features several charming details, like ruffled hems and bow-tie straps.
4. Seriously Flattering: This milkmaid-style dress was basically made to flatter the feminine frame with its smocked upper that highlights the curves.
5. Expensive-Looking: With its intricate eyelet fabric, this puff-sleeve maxi dress looks like it could pass for being five times the price.
6. Retro-Chic: Bring a little retro flair into your wardrobe with this boho floral maxi dress that glides right over the midsection.
7. Flirty and Feminine: Let this boutique-style maxi bring out your feminine energy with its tie-strap details and pastel color section.
For Vacations
8. Our Favorite: Lightweight and airy, this tiered maxi dress is easy to pack for a getaway and even easier to wear.
9. Lovely Lace: Perfect for sipping a cocktail beach side, this lace-detail maxi dress brings effortless vacation energy.
10. Floral Fabulous: Love a floral moment? You’re going to want to check out this botanical-inspired sundress that comes in an array of colors.
11. Boho Chic: Shoppers are channeling their inner goddess . . . over 1,000 of this loose boho maxi dress were bought last month.
12. Coastal Elegance: Embrace that elegant coastal aesthetic with this striped maxi dress that has a vintage-inspired fabric.
For Weddings
13. Our Favorite: With its stunning tulle fabric, this mesh maxi dress is sheer perfection.
14. Arm-Flattering: Flatter your arms look in this flutter sleeve maxi with a unique flared hem.
15. Strapless Stunner: Turn heads in this stunning strapless maxi that’s guaranteed to disguise bloating.
16. One Shoulder Wonder: Ideal for backyard weddings or a destination wedding, this smocked one-shoulder dress adds visual interest to your upper body.