Dressing My Midsection Used to Stress Me Out—Until I Found These Staples
Photo Credit: Maju Burlim
If most of your weight sits in your midsection—and you’ve ever changed outfits five times because nothing “laid right”—you’re not alone.
The apple body shape usually means you carry more volume around the belly, often with slimmer legs, a fuller bust, and not a ton of waist definition. And let’s be honest: trying to dress for that can feel like a battle
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Things ride up, cling in the wrong places, or leave you constantly adjusting your top. You want comfort without shapelessness, structure without feeling stiff.
These are the wardrobe staples I reach for when I want to feel pulled together without sucking in, layering up, or second-guessing myself. No weird shapewear tricks, no impossible tailoring—just real pieces that feel good and fit the way I want to show up.
Want a full guide that goes even deeper? Grab my Apple Shape Style Guide for step-by-step outfit templates, style swaps, and outfit combinations that actually feel good on your shape.
1. When You Want to Wear a Dress Without Feeling Exposed Around the Stomach
Try: Swing dresses or flowy wrap-style midi dresses
They give you room in the midsection without looking oversized, and still define your shape without being tight.
Amazon
A Line Beach Long Maxi Dress
$49.99
Anna Quan
Penelope Dress
$390
2. When Jeans Feel Unforgiving Around the Waistline
Try: High-rise stretch denim with a smoothing waistband
They hug just enough to stay put, without digging in. Bonus points for a relaxed straight or bootcut leg.
Amazon
High Waisted Mom Denim Pants with Pockets
$45.99
3. When You’re Trying to Feel Polished Without Tucking Anything In
Try: Tunic-style tops or peplum tops with soft shaping under the bust
They glide right over your stomach and create shape up top—no awkward tucking required.
Meshki
JanayiaCotton Beaded Top - Dark Espresso
$119
4th & Reckless
Tally Blouse
$90
4. When You Want a One-and-Done Outfit That Doesn’t Squeeze
Try: Jumpsuits with a defined bust and a relaxed leg
Look for something with a seam or wrap shape under the chest. It gives your figure shape without emphasizing the middle.
Amazon
One Piece Jumper
$32.99
5. When You’re Dressing for a Bloaty, “I Just Want to Be Comfortable” Day
Try: Flowy top + slim pants or cropped jeans
This combo balances your proportions and keeps the attention on your legs, not your waistband.
Amazon
Oversized Solid Blouses Tops
$34.88
Meshki
Wide Leg Flare Denim Jeans - Dark Blue
$109
6. When You Need a Layer but Don’t Want to Add Bulk
Try: Longline vests or open cardigans that hit mid-thigh
They add vertical lines that break up the midsection and make everything feel more styled without overheating you.
Amazon
Vest Blazer and Wide Leg Pants Suit Matching Set
$49.89
7. When You Want a Basic Outfit That Feels Pulled Together
Try: V-neck tank + wide-leg linen pants + crossbody bag
Soft around the belly, breezy on the legs, and finished enough to wear anywhere.
Amazon
Sleeveless Shirts Blouse
$24.95
Meshki
Mid Rise Wide Leg Linen Pant - Natural Beige
$135
Want a full guide that goes even deeper? Grab my Apple Shape Style Guide for step-by-step outfit templates, style swaps, and outfit combinations that actually feel good on your shape.
