Go Big Work It

Stars are swapping bodycons for ginormous curve-hiding dresses. We tell you why this, why now

Stars like Anne Hathaway embrace the muumuu.

The Celebrity Stylist Says

“While the warm weather usually means losing layers and showing more skin, stars are instead using modern-day muumuus to keep cool and comfortable — literally choosing function over form,” says stylist Bryon Javar, who dressed Melanie “Mel B” Brown in the oversize Line & Dot maxi below. “I chose the dress because of how rich the fabric looked and how it moved in the wind, and went for the no-belt, non–waist-defining style because it just let the dress flow in its natural movement.” Since the shapeless fit can add optical pounds, a dress with vertical stripes like Mel’s will pull the eye up and down to slim while a billowy mini like Aisha’s will emphasize long, lean legs. Plus, pairing with heels keeps the full-on fabric from overwhelming.

The Designer Says

“The design world has come to the conclusion that a woman can be both attractive and sensual without having to overshow,” says couture designer Zeina Nabulsi of the eponymous brand. “And by using defining details, like the cold shoulders on Drew’s dress or the rope-like straps on Gwendoline’s frock, designers can make the non-constrictive style look sophisticated and chic.”

The Psychologist Says

“Tents typically symbolize coverage, safety and shelter from both the environment and predators,” says Dawnn Karen, founder of the Fashion Psychology Institute. And by wearing dresses that look a tad tent-like, celebrities are in a way exercising some control over their public personas. “They’re hiding their insecurities — physical and mental — as well as shielding their private lives from the outside world.”