Dressing up well is entirely based on knowing your body shape and being aware of the flattering styles for your body. The secret to looking great in a dress is choosing the one that compliments your shape.
What is your body shape and which dresses go well with it?
The Pear
If you have a full hip and thick thighs, you have a pear-shaped body. It is advisable to stick to dresses that are not shorter than 1-2 inches above the knee. You’d look great in dresses with lengthy, A-line skirts! Opt for patterns that draw the attention away from your hips and thighs; wear dresses that flatter your upper body such as V-neck cuts, dresses with embellished necklines, or halter tops.
The Apple
If you are donning a thick waist, your body shape is known as the apple. What you need is to find dresses that make your torso look longer and your waist, smaller. A drop-waist or an empire cut dress will definitely help re-define your waistline. You should avoid accessorizing with thick belts around your waist and instead, pick a sash or thin chain belt on your hips.
The Hourglass
You’re lucky if you have this body shape—it is considered the ideal body by most women. If you have full hips and bust plus a narrow waist, you are a definite hourglass! Be sure to look for dresses that draw all eyes on your narrow waist and killer curves. Consider wearing wrap dresses to make your waist more prominent without adding to your upper or lower body. Choosing low necklines is also advisable; opt for v-neck, halter, or a deep scoop neck. Similarly, avoid square necklines and boat necks—these will only make your upper body look heavy.
The Inverted Triangle
If your lower body is disproportionately smaller than your upper body and you have flat hips, your body shape is an inverted triangle. Choose dresses with straight lines and shifts. You can also wear ones with A-line, full, tiered, and pleated skirts to make your lower body appear balanced with your upper body. Avoid dresses with necklines that make your top part larger such as halter necks, boat necks, and big shawl collars.
The Rectangle
If you possess a straight shoulder line along with straight hips and bottom, this is your body type. As you have almost no waist definition, you need to create the illusion of it. You can wear dresses that have waist cutouts or add emphasis to the waist. Empire lines are also advisable for the rectangle body shape. Also, opt for wider and lower necklines—additional neckline embellishments will look superb on you!
