Plus-Size Bandeau Dresses Shopping Guide

Bandeau dresses take us back to the days of flip phones, MySpace, and butterfly clips. But like so many early aughts favorites, this trend has made its way into our closets yet again. Before you start rolling your eyes, though, let us assure you that today’s bandeau dresses have come a long way since 2003. They’re still undeniably reminiscent of yesteryear, yes—but updated in ways that make them perfect for right now. So much so, that we’re dubbing plus-size bandeau dresses the latest in our line-up of warm-weather staples.

Thrown over your favorite swimsuit, styled with a lacy bralette, or simply worn with a strapless bra, bandeau and tube dresses are (once more) a spring and summer favorite. The trend is just so incredibly easy to wear when the temperatures are sweltering, and works just as well for weekend shopping sprees as it does on a tropical vacation. Frankly, just looking at a shirred-top bandeau dress makes us feel like we’re headed to the pool—chunky flip flops and gossip magazines in-tow. (And thankfully, the recent resurgence of early 2000s trends means flip flops are back in the zeitgeist, too.)

While we didn’t fully embrace bandeau dresses the first time around, we’ve vowed to correct that this season. And the number of adorable pieces available in plus sizes right now—from neutrals and bright hues to statement-making stripes—make the trend even more accessible than it was in the early aughts. If anything, plus-size bandeau dresses can serve as an easy and comfortable wardrobe basic that you slip on when everything else is in the wash. Then, after you see just how incredible this trend looks, there’s no doubt you’ll upgrade it to the front of your closet. All hail the bandeau dress—the unsung hero of the season.