The right dress for every body type, simplified

How many times have you changed your outfit because something just isn’t right about the fit? Whether the torso is too short or it’s feeling snug at the hips, let’s put an end to those morning outfit frustrations. It’s time to find out exactly which dress shape is best for your body type.

In order to help choose the best dress shape for your body type, scroll down to find which illustration best resembles your body.

If you have wide hips, the style best for you is one that emphasizes the waistline.

• Choose V-neck dresses or silhouettes that highlight the upper body.
• Opt for slim-fitting designs to emphasize, not hide, your curves.
• Pencil skirt-style dresses or belted styles are flattering on wider hips.
• Avoid baggy, boxy shapes that will mask your figure.
• If wearing a maxi dress, choose a style you can belt at the waist.

If you’re petite, you may find it especially difficult to find a dress that doesn’t overwhelm your figure. The dress that suits you most, is the wrap dress! If you want to look taller and take advantage of your petite figure, these are the best tricks for you:

• Opt for dresses with straight lines at a knee-length. The lines will lengthen your petite frame.
• V-neck styles will lengthen your neck and project your figure upwards.
• If you have your heart set on a loud maxi dress, don’t be shy to take your dress into a tailor to perfect the shape for your body type.

If you have a sporty physique, opt for dress styles with feminine textures and ruffles to give your body type more shape and movement.

• Show off what you have. Muscular legs? Go for a mini. Toned arms? Show them off.
• Dresses in tulle or silk will emphasize the feminine look.
• Play with prints and textures to give your look movement.

If you have a slim body type, dresses that will enhance your curves are wrap dress styles and silhouettes with exaggerated sleeves or waistlines.

• Choose dresses that emphasize the waistline to create the illusion of wider hips
• High-neck and long-sleeve mini dresses will show off your legs while adding volume to your torso area
• Play with exaggerated fabrics, silhouettes, and prints as they won’t overwhelm your slim frame

The shorter the legs, the shorter the dress. The shorter the skirt of your dress, the longer and more slender your legs will appear. If you don’t want to wear a tight mini dress, opt for a t-shirt dress. Other tricks girls with short legs can follow are:

• Opt for high-neck styles that will emphasize your legs
• Styles with side slits will show off more skin
• Nude tones will elongate your figure
• Try not to overwhelm your shape with loud maxi styles