28 Summer Outfit Ideas That Will Highlight Your Curves
Looks inspired by your favorite tastemakers.
Fact: You can wear anything you want. Confidence and comfort over everything, right? Right. And if you do want to accentuate your body type and highlight your curves, there are a few style tricks to do so. We reached out to several tastemakers, including Musemo Handahu and Kristina Zias, to get their best summer outfit ideas for curvy women—and the #OOTDs are fire. Not to mention, they're super easy to recreate. From bright colors to monochromatic looks, your favorite trends are featured in this outfit inspiration post, making it so much easier for you to translate them into your wardrobe. These curvy fashion stylists, influencers, and icons have tried out these super chic outfit ideas and have reported on their go-to warm weather looks. Celebrate your gorgeous self with fashion that accentuates your amazing features as we head into the warmer months. Ahead, the looks you'll want to (and most likely will) live in all season long.
Stay In The Know
Select the newsletters you’d like to receive. Then, add your email to sign up.
Outfit Idea: Oversized Prints
"When I'm curating my warm weather pieces, I always like to check out the menswear [section] for some cool oversized shirts. This avocado print shirt from ASOS is an attention getter and one of my favorite finds to date!"—Musemo Handahu of misslionhunter
ASOS floral top, $40
Athleta trouser, $89
Rejina Pyo sandal, $535
Studio 33 bag, $98
Outfit Idea: Cute Jumpsuits
"I love a good jumpsuit. This one has the cutest ruffles and an off-the-shoulder neckline. I love the way the wide-leg fit gives it almost a dress-like look." — Allison Teng of curvygirlchic
Prada headband, $235
Tanya Taylor jumpsuit, $595
Simon Miller thong sandal, $390
Sensi Studio leather trimmed tote, $420
Outfit Idea: Floral Dress and Sneakers
"I love all of the spring and summer dresses I'm seeing this season. You can style them casually with a simple white sneaker like Vans or dress them up!"— Hannah Godown of hannahgodown
Bottega Veneta sunglasses, $440
Tanya Taylor dress, $495
Vans sneakers, $50
Outfit Idea: Keep Your Pieces Light and Breezy
"This look is very light and refreshing. I love dresses for the spring/summer and because while we are in quarantine, I can wear this flowing dress in the house and I can wear it outside for my daily walks. Everything for me leads to comfort. For the warmer months having outfits that are pretty and lightweight are key!"—Micaéla Verrelien of micaelaverrelien
Faithfull the Branddress, $190
By Far leather sandals, $400
Mejuri pearl hoops, $75
Outfit Idea: Printed Dresses
"A dress like this is my favorite warm weather go-to because it's polished but still practical for whatever the day brings. Printed dresses transition easily from season to season with a simple swap of shoes and accessories."—Tanesha Awasthi of girlwithcurves
Reformation dress, $248
Steve Madden boot, $112
Brahmin bag, $245
Outfit Idea: Accentuate With a Belt
"This Veronica Beard dress is one of my all time favorites. The slit hits at the right place and VB knows how to accentuate the body."—Katie Sturino of katiesturino
Veronica Beard dress, $695
Halogen jacket, $119
Lele Sadoughi headband, $150
Chanel handbag, $4,600
Free People western boots, $148
Outfit Idea: Classic With Confidence
"I love to keep my style clean, neutral, a little classy, and a little sassy. Simplicity is key most times and all you need is a little confidence if you want to stand out! There's a reason why having a little black dress won't go out of style! Carry yourself like you own the place, and you're good to go."—Javiera Del Pozo of javierittaaa
Pretty Little Thing dress, $25
Brinker & Eliza earrings, $108
Tibi sandals, $645
Outfit Idea: Floral Maxis
"While florals at this time of year may not be groundbreaking, you just can't beat a staple floral maxi dress! I adore this one from Sister Jane who do the dreamiest dresses. I love the freedom maxi dresses give you, and when you pick the right shape you can still highlight your waist and define your curves!"—Steph Carter of future_bloom
Gucci bag, $2,590
Sister Jane dress, $100
Schutz boot, $275
Isabel Marant belt, $160
Outfit Idea: Style With White Accessories
"Spring/summer dressing will forever be a favorite. I love florals, pinks, and dressing joyfully in color. If you're worried about brights or colors in general, now is the best time to dip your toes in for a real mood-lifter. The principle I'll always live by is: Wear what makes you happy. For me, that's beautiful dresses and anything with a bit of vibrancy!"—Nicole Ocran of nicoleocran
Samøe Samøe shirtdress, $160
Cult Gaia bag, $378
Balenciaga boots, $1,190
Outfit Idea: Pops of Neon
"Neon tights? Who does that? ME!"—Kiah Torres of reztothecity
ASOS cotton dress, $30
Etsy tights, $14
SHOP IT
Senso sandals, $169
SHOP IT
Jacquemus bag, $475
Outfit Idea: Dress With a T-Shirt
"I basically live in the arctic, so I'm always so excited to bust out all my spring and summer dresses that I've been stockpiling all winter while waiting for the day it's above freezing. I'll risk a little bit of frostbite for a cute dress!"—Jessica Kelley of therealmrskelley
Madewell t-shirt, $16
Gabby Skye dress, $98
Rebecca de Ravenel earrings, $325
Converse sneakers, $50
Outfit Idea: Flattering Neutrals
"[I call this] queen of the jungle. This two-piece is so unique and flattering. I can't go anywhere without turning heads in this one."—Habiba Da Silva of lifelongpercussion
Habiba Da Silva ife scarf, $30
Sophie Buhai earrings, $475
Jil Sander shirt, $1,150
Weekend Max Mara trouser, $325
BP. sandal, $60
Outfit Idea: All-Black Ensembles
"For me, warmer looks consist of crop tops and high-waisted jeans. It's my favorite outfit to wear. I also love strapless jumpsuits during the spring and summer time. They're super fun and stylish." —Denise Mercedes of denisemmercedes
Nic + Zoe trouser, $152
ModCloth blouse, $55
Manolo Blahnik mules, $865
Marge Sherwood bag, $465
Outfit Idea: Go Monochromatic
"Nothing feels as fresh to me as white and cream—especially head to toe! I love mixing the textures of leather and silk with this bodysuit and high-waisted paper bag pant, and I kept it monochromatic down to the boots. There is something so elevated and polished about wearing one hue, and choosing structured pieces takes it to the next level."—Alex Michael May of alexmichaelmay
Universal Thread boiler suit, $40
Ganni leather boots, $475
Lana Jewelry earrings, $295
Outfit Idea: Rock Band Tees
"I love an edgy look! You can't go wrong with an eye-catching print like plaid and rock band tees! Your style is a reflection of your personality. Wear it with confidence because if you feel good, you look good! Style it and own it."—Erika Aguilera of erikaaguileraa
Torrid fleetwood mac tee, $40
Rachel Comey plaid pants, $495
Free People boots, $188
Marc Jacobs bag, $375
Outfit Idea: Leather Looks
"For me, warmer weather doesn't necessarily mean throwing on a sundress. I'm more of a pants girl, and I love to find fun ways to pair tops with them. I balance leather pants with bra/crop tops, and mega-distressed jeans with open, belted dresses."—Kelly Augustine of kellyaugustineb
Altuzarra olivisi double-breasted jacket, $1,895
Eloquii faux leather tank, $60
Veda leather leggings, $798
Jacquemus leather mule, $670
Outfit Idea: Classic Tee and Jeans
"It doesn’t get more classic than a tee and mom jeans. I like to spruce it up with a scrunchie or hair scarf, my favorite bag, and a pair of dirty sneakers!"—Josie Wass of aplusfatshion
Tanya Taylor knit top, $275
Madewell jeans, $115
J.Crew woven bag, $185
André Assous sandals, $98
Velvet Canyon sunglasses, $190
Outfit Idea: Puffed Sleeves
"As the temperature rise it's all about stylish comfort; from a silky dress with a metallic bag to a blouse with puffy sleeves and jeans."—Cindy Pineda of cidscloset
Gucci cateye sunglasses, $320
Reformation pinto top, $148
Madewell jeans, $98
Linea Paolo wedge sandals, $130
Outfit Idea: Bright Colors
"We are in such a bright color cycle in fashion and most of my summer looks reflect that. This summer ensemble is full of neon and printed accents that flatter every part of my body, without hiding my curves. I'm proud of my curves and never want to hide them under boring clothes."—Victoria Monitzer of Rosewood Avenue
Prologue cami, $18
ASOS skirt, $36
Coach belt bag, $89
Nike sneakers, $110
Outfit Idea: Off-the-Shoulder Top
"I'm in love with these jeans. They are high-waisted, which is complementary to my shape and my waistline. The stretch and pocket placement make my butt look great. The wide leg gives me some airy comfort for warmer temperatures. I paired it with this afro-centric crop top. Most would say 'plus size women' shouldn't wear crop tops, but I find myself throwing caution to the wind—especially when I have a piece that I know I'll look great in. For me, I like to highlight my shoulders, so off-the-shoulder tops are something I reach for often. Highlighting the attributes that you love will always have you leaving the house feeling and looking good."—Chastity Garner Valentine of Garner Style
Amur crop top, $398
Good American jeans, $175
Zara sandal, $70
Outfit Idea: Dress With Sneakers
"I'm a huge fan of feminine florals in the warmer months. My favorite thing is pairing a dress with sneakers. Specifically my Keds! It's my go-to spring/summer uniform."—Maxey Greene of maxeygreene
Modcloth floral romper, $59
Keds sneakers, $45
Chloé crossbody, $890
Loewe sunglasses, $360
Outfit Idea: Crop Top and Maxi Skirt
"This is one of my favorite summer looks because it's colorful, and bright. I love the way the top accentuates my waist and the layers in the skirt elongates my stature." —Rochelle Johnson of Beauticurve
Ganni wrap top, $115
Kenzo midi skirt, $370
Dior bag, $3,350
Mango sandals, $42
Outfit Idea: One-Shoulder Top and Satin Skirt
"I love this outfit because it's so clean. I feel sexy without being too revealing and it's comfortable. The slip skirt is body skimming so it shows off my natural curves and feels airy, so it's great for walking around the city in the summer. I can never buy enough tanks and this skinny strapped top lets me show off my shoulders. The hint of skin around my midsection is more of the 'meet and greet' instead of a full blown crop. I think anyone can wear this and feel chic and effortless."—Crystal Clement of crystal_alexis
Aerie crop top, $18
White House Black Market midi skirt, $110
Chloé bag, $2,050
Maryam Nassir Zadeh wedges, $444
Outfit Idea: A Matching Set
"This top and skirt set is so nice, I bought it twice (I have it in navy and white). I'm expecting my first baby in the fall, so finding pieces that are comfortable and trendy for summer is key! I love this set because it comes in sizes XS to 4XL, is budget friendly, and comes in a few colors. It's not maternity, but the smocking is perfect for curves—it hugs my shape without being tight."—Sarah Tripp of sassyredlipstick
Abercrombie smock crop top, $49
Garage Clothing smock skirt, $30
Sole Society bag, $60
Tory Burch slide sandals, $228
Outfit Idea: A Dress and Booties
"I'm so glad Veronica Beard has expanded their size range to include plus. When I first created my #plussizeplease movement, they were high on my personal brand wishlist. This dress is so good for summer because the fit is spot on and the ruched detail on the front is totally adjustable, so the cut works for a variety of heights and body shapes."—Sarah Chiwaya of Curvily
Veronica Beard dress, $650
Brixton hat, $64
Free People booties, $168
Outfit Idea: Trendy Animal Prints
"I tend to shop for dresses that allow me to look chic, but are especially very comfortable. Before I purchase anything online, I read about the materials. I want to make sure that I'll look good and be able to move in it. This extra research also helps me in deciding if have to size down or up for an item. At the moment I am very into black and white animal prints." —Jessica Torres of thisisjessicatorres
Ganni mini dress, $250
Susan Alexandra micro bag, $189
Zara mule sandals, $60
•••
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter (subscribe here).
Eunice Bruno is an Accessories Assistant within the Hearst Women’s Fashion Group. Obsessed with all things fashion and footwear, Eunice is here to help you solve all of your fashion emergencies. Follow her on Instagram to keep up with the life of this creative.
-
Prince William Says He Wants to "Challenge Homelessness" While Promoting New Documentary
"We see it every day in our lives."
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Meghan Markle Connects to Little Boy She Says is "So Close" to Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet's Age
The Duchess of Sussex greeted young fans during a solo appearance at the Children's Hospital L.A. 2024 Gala.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Suki Waterhouse Wears Floral Maxi Dress Alongside Robert Pattinson in First Joint Appearance Since Becoming Parents
The pair welcomed their first child, a baby girl, back in March.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Fashion Girls Are Using Sheer Knee-High Socks to Level Up Their Looks
The perfect balance between not too bare and not too boring.
By Emma Childs Published
-
'80s-Era Leather Bomber Jackets Are Making a Swift Comeback
The trend took off during Fashion Month but has legs to last through winter and spring.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Torishéju Dumi Is the New Name To Know From Paris Fashion Week
She debuted last year with Naomi Campbell and designed Zendaya's 'Dune' red-carpet look—now, the industry darling is gearing up for her second show.
By Emma Childs Published
-
6 Charli XCX Concert Outfit Ideas, According to Bona Fide Brats
There's no rulebook, but Marie Claire editors have a few ideas.
By Emma Childs Published
-
The Preppy English Country Style Trend Has Been Co-Opted by City Slickers
In tartan and barn jackets, Paris show-goers look ready to ride.
By Emma Childs Published
-
New York Fashion Week's Best Spring 2025 Looks Redefine Real Clothes
Kallmeyer, Rachel Comey, and Maria McManus define a new kind of everyday aspiration.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
What Does Toteme Clothing Have That Other Minimalist Brands Don't?
The label positively took over New York Fashion Week.
By Halie LeSavage Last updated
-
New Yorkers Are Already Wearing These Classic On-Sale Pieces From COS, Madewell, and J.Crew for Fall
Not to mention, they all cost less than $250.
By Lauren Tappan Published