We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love.
Finding a stylish plus-size dress is challenging enough, but when sleeves are added to the equation, the options become even more limited. Too often they’re boxy, outdated, or skipped altogether—leaving fashion lovers stuck between sleeveless basics or sleeves that don’t flatter.
This roundup of the 18 best plus-size dresses with sleeves celebrates every style worth wearing. Flutter sleeves skim the arm with movement, puff sleeves bring drama to wrap silhouettes, and cap sleeves add just the right touch to A-line staples you’ll want on repeat. Long-sleeve midi dresses in sleek knits are perfect for office days, while lightweight cotton and linen dresses with short sleeves make warm-weather dressing effortless. cooler months, satin and jersey long sleeves layer beautifully under jackets without bulk.
From casual weekends to destination weddings, these sleeve-focused finds prove plus-size fashion has moved forward—and sleeves are finally as stylish as the rest of the dress.
1
Plus Size Dresses with Sleeves
The puff sleeves are sheer and a little dramatic, giving this contrast dress an airy feel. A sharp collar with matching cuffs sets it apart from a simple black dress. It’s the kind of piece that works in the office and still feels right for dinner after.
- Available colors: Black
- Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex
Customer review: “Lots of compliments on this dress. Elegant and chic”
2
Satin with ease—this mini makes a striking impression with its plunging neckline and layered ruffle detail. Airy flutter sleeves add softness, while the back waist with ruffle trim defines the shape. A standout style that moves effortlessly from day to night.
- Available colors: Earthen, umber earth
- Material: Recycled polyester
Customer review: “Very Flattering, the material is very comfortable. Cant wait to wear with boots in the fall.”
3
A leopard shirt dress that feels too good to be true? Say less. The Soren by Maeve nails it with its long sleeves, button-front, and breezy fit. From office hours to after-dark plans, it’s giving chic everywhere.
- Available colors: Leopard, black
- Material: Cotton
Customer review: “This dress is Perfect for transitioning into cooler weather and can be paired with a variety of shoes according to your personal style.”
4
If you could turn vacay travel into a dress, it’d be this exact one. The draped cowl neck, side ruching, and chiic slit bring all the drama.
- Available colors: Green pattern, red pattern
- Material: Polyester, elastane
Customer review: “This dress is comfortable, flattering, and gorgeous. It can be dressed up and down. It is also perfect for traveling because it is lightweight and does not wrinkle.”
5
Plus Size Dresses with Sleeves
If you’re not already sold on cut-out maxis, it’s time. This tiered dress shows off a square neck with side cut-outs and comes in a variety of colors. Plus, it’s totally affordable.
- Available colors: Black, yellow, dazzling blue, and stone
- Material: Polyester, cotton
Customer review: “This dress is stunning and so well-made. I get compliments every time I wear it. The material feels really nice and is breathable.”
6
Want something sleeker than a mini? This satin shirt dress with bold sleeves will do the trick.
- Available color: Navy
- Material: Polyester
Customer reviews: “My beloved Tobie dress just got the ultimate upgrade: satin!!! It’s the fit I know and love, but now I can hit the town in it. The fabric has the most gorgeous drape and subtle sheen. Two thumbs up from me!”
7
Trust—this isn’t your average Western dress. Levi’s takes denim up a notch with a classic collared mini that’s easy to wear and ready for anything, from weekend brunch to casual nights out.
- Available colors: Plant pause – medium wash
- Material: Soft denim
Customer review: “SUPER comfortable and soft. Thick but not sweltering. Took it out on a balmy London night and was perfect. Fit like a glove!”
8
This satin maxi is great for parties or graduations. Finish it off with earrings and your go-to heels, zip the back, and you’re good to go.
- Available colors: Black jack, champagne, bright coral, bright melon
- Material: Recycled polyester
Customer review: “It fits perfectly in all the right places. I have a winter wedding coming up that I feel this dress is so appropriate for with the short sleeves.”
9
Stripes take a laid-back turn in this ribbed maxi, cut from soft jersey with short sleeves (trainers and a denim jacket make it weekend-ready).
- Available colors: Black
- Material: Polyester
10
Plus Size Dresses with Sleeves
Might have found the ultimate floral maxi, no big deal. The open-back and lace trim are spicy enough for a solo photoshoot and stretchy enough for dancing all night. Fully lined and comfy, too—so if you’re too tired to change, no worries.
- Available colors: Purple Multi
- Material: Reclaimed polyester
Customer review: “I recently had a baby shower, and it was floral themed, and I got so many compliments on this dress. Just make sure you size down, as it does run large, and it is quite heavy. It’s super gorgeous and honestly complements your figure regardless of what body shape you have. I’m extremely happy with my purchase, and literally, it’s such a great staple.”
11
Finding a can’t-miss ribbed mini can be tough—but this dress hits the mark. The short sleeves and stretchy fabric keep it comfy, and the curve-hugging fit is totally on-trend.
- Available colors: Black
- Material: Ribbed
Customer review: “Great fit and comfy to wear. So easy to throw on and go”
12
This cotton smocked dress is the kind you’ll reach for again and again. Take note: the zipper detail, flattering waist, and soft fabric make it endlessly wearable.
- Available colors: White, flame red, black & white floral
- Material: Cotton
Customer review: “This dress looked and fit so well, it quickly went to cartoon outfit status: an outfit you’d wear all day, every day. It has a lining and feels like quality as you wear it: has the heft of a real, well-made clothing item, but not too heavy to be a go-to summer dress.”
13
With a fringe hem, intricate floral embroidery, and elegant three-quarter sleeves, this berry shift dress deserves a spot in your wardrobe. Wear her to parties or graduations—you can’t go wrong with this one.
- Available colors: Berry
- Material: Polyester
14
The Pumiey square-neck maxi dress keeps it streamlined with long sleeves, a ribbed finish, and a body-hugging cut that flatters every curve. Its soft stretch fabric feels as good as it looks, making it just as easy for lounging as it is for stepping out.
- Available colors: Bubblegum, Aegean, Caramel, Hazelnut, jet black, Olive Khaki, Tango, Stone, Periwinkle
- Material: Rayon, spandex
Customer review: “So soft and stretchy! I got a medium and it fit perfectly, hugged my curves, and was super flattering.”
15
Plus Size Dresses with Sleeves
A little flirty, a little sweet—this mini brings charm in every detail. The flutter sleeves and frill trim feel playful, while the low back tie keeps it fun. Plus, the waist tie shapes the fit.
- Available colors: Red polka
- Material: Viscose
16
With bold tie dye and a curve-loving bodycon fit, this mesh midi brings instant impact. The sheer effect keeps things playful, while long sleeves ground the look. Fully lined inside, it delivers comfort with every move.
- Available colors: Brown
- Material: Polyester, elastane
17
Tiered maxis aren’t backing down this season—they’re taking center stage. With a flattering Y-neckline and layers that flow as you move, this dress is all about ease that still reads elevated. Forget overworked silhouettes—this one brings the drama with its length, its movement, and its quiet confidence.
- Available colors: Black
- Material: Rayon, nylon
Customer review: “I was questioning the fit on this when I ordered it, and I’m so glad it worked out. The dress is flowy and light. The fabric is soft, and the entire fit is sewn well with even stitching and a comfortable and flattering design. The length is good – I’m 5’7 and the waist elastic is very forgiving and flexible. This is a great pick that I plan to wear to work for these warm summer months.”
18
Short sleeves, a relaxed tee fit, and lightweight cotton: this soft everyday dress is bound to be one of your favorites this season. Easy to wear and cut with plus-size comfort in mind, you can’t go wrong with this Athleta bestseller.
- Available colors: Black, maritime, shadow blue, ecru
- Material: Stretch cotton
Customer review: “Doesn’t hug the areas with a few extra pounds and doesn’t just hang straight down. Has the perfect curves.”