The 12 Best Plus-Size Summer Dresses on Amazon Under $50
From floral maxis to comfy, casual options.
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As someone who has worn everything from an XL to a 4X in the past two years alone, I'm familiar with the challenges that plus-size shoppers can face. The main one, in my experience, is that it's tough finding brands that even offer sizes that extend past an XL.
I scoured Amazon's clothing section and found 12 dresses that go up to at least a 3X (most go up to 5X or larger) for under $50. Whether you're in need of a wedding guest dress or some cute looks to wear to work, one of these should do the trick. (Many Amazon shoppers agree, as these dresses are highly rated.)
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A note on sizing: In my personal experience, sizing is wildly inconsistent when it comes to plus sizes, so I always recommend checking the size guide if you haven't purchased a dress from the brand before. And remember that sizes like XXL and 2XL are not necessarily the same thing, as XXL tends to run smaller for certain brands.
Best Deal
Sizes: XS-6X | Colors: 16 | Material: Viscose, elastane
Why we like it: This casual everyday dress has a wrap-style top that creates a V-neck design, and customers call it "very comfortable." For just $16, you might want to buy it in multiple colors.
What you should know: This has over 1,000 of 5-star reviews, and some customers even say that it works as a coverup for the beach.
Sizes: S-5X | Colors: 5 | Material: Cotton
Why we like it: The crochet trend is still wildly popular, and this cotton number shows off the lace-like details of the stitching. Plus, it has a summery halter-top neck that ties in the back.
What you should know: This hugs all your curves, but it is worth noting that it is unlined — so you may need to consider undergarments carefully.
Sizes: XXS-5X | Colors: 7 | Material: Tencel, polyester, cotton
Why we like it: Not only do the side cut-outs of this dress give it a chic, elevated look, but the square-neck design stands out from the rest. Plus, the tiered skirt and puff sleeves offer a breezy fit.
What you should know: Customers like that this dress is lightweight and feels effortless to wear — but many shoppers note that if you are large-chested, you might want to go up a size.
Sizes: S-24 | Colors: 7 | Material: Polyester, spandex
Why we like it: While a lot of summer dresses are filled with bold patterns, this V-neck eyelet maxi comes in white or pastel solids. As a bonus, the straps are adjustable and the skirt is designed with pockets.
What you should know: Reviewers say the fabric is thick and not see-through.
Sizes: XL-5XL | Colors: 6 | Material: Polyester, spandex
Why we like it: The material of this tiered, short-sleeve dress doesn't wrinkle much, per reviewers, which is key if you are packing for vacation.
What you should know: The top does have buttons — so if you have a larger chest, you might want to size up to avoid gaps.
Sizes: XL-5XL | Colors: 8 | Material: Polyester
Why we like it: The delicate toile print looks garden-party ready, while the stretchy shirred top offers additional comfort. One customer even noted "quick delivery" which was convenient for a last-minute wedding they attended.
What you should know: Reviewers like that the shirred top is flexible for those with larger busts.
Sizes: L-4X | Colors: 10 | Material: Polyester
Why we like it: This square-neck maxi is perfect for going out to dinner or even attending a wedding — and these particular colors as well as patterns look suited to transition from summer right into fall.
What you should know: This has hundreds of glowing reviews, but many say that it is longer than pictured — so it may need to be hemmed if you are shorter.
Sizes: 1X-5X | Colors: 15 | Material: Polyester, spandex
Why we like it: Although it looks like a two-piece set, this short-sleeve dress is designed with a V-neck top that's attached to a vibrant floral skirt (via elastic waistband).
What you should know: Per the brand, the top half of this dress is apparently stretchy, thanks to the spandex fabric blend — and the elastic waist fits loosely around the hips.
Sizes: 1X-5X | Colors: 13 | Material: Rayon
Why we like it: This waist-tie midi comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, from bold stripes to delicate florals. It's designed with a tie-front waistband that helps create a customizable fit.
What you should know: Reviewers like the elastic stretch to the sleeves, but they say that it runs long if you are on the petite side.
Sizes: L-5X | Colors: 6 | Material: Polyester, spandex
Why we like it: Under $20 for a black ruffle maxi that could be your new go-to for casual days? Almost too good to be true — especially since it has pockets and a stretchy shirred top.
What you should know: According to the manufacturer, this dress is machine washable. One customer also noted how it's "easy to pack."
Sizes: XL-5X | Colors: 14 | Material: Rayon
Why we like it: The pretty pink-and-red floral design on this V-neck dress scream "summer," but there's over a dozen other prints that can fit any vacation destination. It even has pockets.
What you should know: This dress is machine washable, according to the brand. One shopper who left a five-star review wrote, "The quality and fit were perfect. True to size and the fabric was very comfortable!"
Sizes: XL-6X | Colors: 7 | Material: Polyester, spandex
Why we like it: In my opinion, fit-and-flare is one of those styles that looks good on almost everyone — and this patterned option has mid-length sleeves which is great if you tend to get chilly in air-conditioned spaces.
What you should know: Because this ships from the brand directly, shipping may take longer. And since Catherines is a plus-size specific company, the sizes tend to run a bit large.
Angel Madison is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines, writing for brands like Country Living, Good Housekeeping, Cosmopolitan, House Beautiful, Oprah Daily, Men’s Health, and Women's Health. She’s been testing products for several years and is an expert at scouting deals and finding the perfect gifts. Angel covers many topics, but she specializes in plus-size fashion, Lego, trending products, toys, parenting, fitness, home, and tech. She has previously worked in parenting and entertainment and has vast knowledge in the teen, pop culture, and kid spaces.
