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Finding a slimming maxi dress can feel like a full-time job. Fitted ones show insecurities while some loose options look frumpy. Thankfully, these 19 flattering empire-waist maxi dresses are somewhere in between, working for all body shapes and sizes, whether you lean boxy, pear, petite or athletic. Better yet, they start at just $10!
Our favorites leverage strategic smocking, silhouette-defining waistbands, A-line shapes and other design elements to help you feel your best. These empire-waist picks range from weekend casual style to date night chic, so scroll on to find your new staple outfit!
19 Empire-Waist Spring Maxi Dresses, Starting at $10
1. Everyday Outfit: If you’re tired of choosing between functionality and polish, this stretchy maxi solves your woes with a forgiving fit and real pockets.
2. Secretly Lengthening: Pleated detailing gives this vintage-style maxi a lengthening effect. We love that the floral print feels timeless yet fresh.
3. Center of Attention: This vibrant short-sleeve dress brings real energy to your spring wardrobe, thanks to its bold colors. Plus, the short sleeves lend modest arm coverage without feeling heavy.
4. Pretty Pastels: The loose fit and puff sleeves make this pastel-colored maxi mega romantic. It skims rather than clings.
5. Santorini Flair: Throw this empire-waist wonder on with sneakers now and sandals later. The sleeveless design keeps you cool as temperatures climb, and it’s only $24.
6. Flower Girl: When you want to look pretty but not fussy, this V-neck floral maxi hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for spring farmers’ markets and brunches.
7. Vacation Mode: A smocked bodice and a sweetheart neckline add a polished edge to this classic vacation dress. Nobody would ever guess it’s just $10.
8. Versatile Find: Delicate puff sleeves give this solid-color number a feminine touch without going overboard. The blue hue is easy to dress up or down.
9. Absolute Essential: Smooth your midsection with this tummy-hiding dress that features an extra-high empire waist. At $22, the price is as good as the fit.
10. Beach Babe: Spaghetti straps and front buttons give this beach-ready maxi a laid-back look. We wear it for daytime appointments, afternoon strolls and beyond.
11. Boho Luxe: Channel your inner boho babe in this loose, stretchy maxi. The relaxed fit and expensive appeal make it a no-brainer.
12. Wedding Guest: Walk into a spring wedding wearing this pale-hued dress, and you might steal the show. The soft color palette works for just about any venue.
13. Season to Season: Look no further for the ultimate transitional dress. This long-sleeve style works from cool spring mornings well into fall.
14. Pretty in Purple: If you love the simple things in life, this empire-waist number makes a statement with color alone — no busy patterns needed.
15. Solid-Color Stunner: Again, you don’t need a bold print to turn heads. This stretchy maxi dress proves that a clean silhouette and quality fabric can do all the talking.
16. Could Be Zimmermann: Rock this printed floral dress to at spring event and people will swear it’s Zimmermann. The eye-catching print screams ‘designer.’
17. Like Loungewear: Thanks to the sweat-wicking fabric, this loungewear-like maxi keeps you cool and dry on balmy days.
18. Mood Boost: Need a pop of color? This yellow dress brings instant energy to your wardrobe with fun hue and playful tiers.
19. Classy Act: Ruffle sleeves and an ocean-toned print give this classy printed pick a sophisticated but breezy look.
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