Choosing the perfect dress is all about finding the right style for your body shape. We feel most confident when we know we look good, so it makes sense to choose a dress which works with your silhouette; highlighting your best features. Follow our guide to find your dream dress for the party season.
Hourglass
Your shape: larger bust, small waist, and wider hips – the classic hourglass.
Your style: Wrap dresses were made for hourglass figures. They draw attention to a slender waist and skim your curves to accentuate your feminine silhouette. Otherwise, styles that nip in at the waist or under the bust will be your best friend. If you choose a fitted skirt, opt for a slightly longer length to continue that graceful line. Floaty fabrics will work well too, creating a classic 1950s shape. Don’t be afraid to try bold prints; you can definitely pull them off. V necks are particularly flattering for your shape but a higher neckline will work for a slightly smaller bust.
Pear
Your shape: narrow shoulders, a slender waist and wider hips.
Your style: Your slim upper body means you can afford to choose a style which has detailing around the collar, bodice or shoulders. Touches such as embellishment, ruching, and wide collars will draw attention to the shoulders and waist to balance out your shape. This trick also works for prints and colour; pair a bright or patterned top with a plain, dark skirt for the same effect. A-line cuts work wonders for pear shapes as they sit higher on the waist, lengthening the upper body and drawing the focus away from the hips. Don’t hide your shape though, make the most of your figure by experimenting with low necklines and daring to bare exposed shoulders!
Rectangle
Your shape: hip, bust, and waist measurements are similar, resulting in a straighter silhouette.
Your style: Loose, floaty styles will flatter your shape, enhancing your bust without clinging to the waist or hips, giving the illusion of curves. Matching or tonal colours will lengthen your body, so keep this in mind when choosing accessories. Do opt for prints as the right ones will draw attention to your best features, however avoid styles which will break up your figure such as gathered waists – tunic shapes are ideal for your silhouette.
V-Shaped
Your shape: broader shoulders and narrow hips.
Your style: deep v-necklines look fantastic on you, lengthening and slimming the upper body. Details around the shoulders are best avoided – a dress that has a patterned or embellished skirt with a plain bodice is perfect for you. Fabrics which gently drape over the shoulders will soften your shape, and adding a little weight to the hips with ruching or a peplum will create a more balanced silhouette.
