Plus Size Picks: Longer Length Dresses

Last week's plus size picks prompted a call in the comments for some longer length dresses for those who prefer not to show too much leg. I am, of course, here to serve, so this week's options all sit below the knee, offering a little more modesty. But I'm not going too far in the other direction - just because you're covering up your legs doesn't mean you have to cover up all together, so while there are plenty of sleeves (it is Autumn) I've made sure to include a couple of options that show some flesh elsewhere too. Feeling confident is all about showing off your best bits, so if you're not so in love with your knees or thighs, find something else to emphasise!

The problem with many longer length dresses is they're either summery maxis, or long-sleeved, covered up styles that run the risk of looking really frumpy. This dress is neither. The Pinup Girl Clothing Jessica dress is the ultimate va va voom cocktail dress, but the hem sits lower on the calf than most dresses of this style. The plus sized version (in black or red) goes up to a 4X but they sell out really fast so you may need to join a waiting list. That'll give you enough time to save up for the international shipping costs that'll be added on top of the $98 price...but maybe this is one dress that's worth it for a special occasion?

On the other end of the price scale comes this peacock print dress from Just Curvy (£27, sizes 16 - 26). The rise and fall hem (I just can't bring myself to say "mullet") delivers some extra modesty without being a full length maxi, and the dark print means it'll work into the colder weather with tights or leggings and one of the many sleeve solutions I featured a while ago, or it can be stashed away for summer holidays.

 

Anna Scholz's range for Simply Be is a goldmine for dramatic dresses, and though this black evening dress (£75) is a bit different to her usual print-heavy styles, it's no less eye catching thanks to the keyhole neckline, soft printed sleeves and split at the hem. It manages to be very covered-up without looking boring, which is great if you're just not happy flashing flesh. The Angelina leg pose helps, of course, as would a metallic belt at the waist.

If you're looking for more of a day dress, this classic stretch mock wrap (£38.50 at That's My Style) comes in a longer length that hits a few inches below the knee (longer, if you're petite). Don't let the non-plus model put you off, it's actually available in the biggest range of sizes of any of the dresses featured this week: 12 to 40. If the red floral print is not for you, it also comes in black.

Speaking of dresses that also come in black, Very's ever reliable So Fabulous range offers up this flutter sleeve maxi (£29, sizes 14 - 32) in print or plain options. This is a good winter alternative to the gazillion strappy or strapless printed jersey maxis that seem to fill every plus size shop and online retailer. The high waist is slightly gathered and sits just under the bust, making this a useful option if you don't like things that are tight around the waist, tummy or hips.

And finally, a little added extra. I am gutted that I didn't find the IGIGI Isadora dress (£120) before today, because I'm pretty sure more than one of you will fall instantly in love with it. Sadly it's sold out in most sizes now, but maybe if we all cross our fingers (and beg) Curvety will restock it soon?