Before we begin, let’s get one thing clear: When it comes to looking good, body size or shape hardly matters. However, what does matter is how the clothes fit. Figuring out what fits right can be an overwhelming task, especially when you don’t know what geometric shape or fruit your body resembles most. Fret not though; we are here to answer the age old question that’s been haunting women for centuries:
“Does this dress make me look fat?”
The simple answer, of course, is no. But it is necessary to note that everybody is different. There are so many beautiful body types that it would be a shame to only cater to only one in terms of fashion dresses for women. Below, we list the most common body shapes and offer a primer on how to dress each.
The Hourglass Body Shape
Slim Waist + Bigger Bust and Rear = Hourglass
Celebrate those lovely curves by opting for waist-slimming silhouettes. The more fitted the better, so opt for mid-length bodycons, ruched details and wide waistbands. Other power pieces include the wrap dress that highlights your curves without clinging too tight and the fit and flare skirt for a modest approach.
Style tip: accentuate your waistline with a belt.
The Apple Body Shape
Bigger Bust + Slim Waist and Legs = Apple
If you’re a well-endowed woman, you best show it off with shoulder-baring cuts and flowy midsections. Flowy tunics, A-line silhouettes and V-neck anything are your go-to styles to try. Do the most in a strapless number (because you can) or opt for knee-length shift or sheath dresses for a sophisticated take. Either way, make sure you’re looking for a relaxed fit that draws little attention to your mid-section.
The Triangle or Pear Body Shape
Smaller Bust + Bigger Hips = Pear/Triangle
Of all the shapes, the pear is the luckiest in terms of options. Bring on the statement tops, embellishments, asymmetrical necklines, dramatic sleeves, drop-backs – you name it, you can rock them all! They key is to elongate your frame and play up your slender upper body, so belted styles are a good option, as well as A-line skirts and maxi dresses.
The Athletic Body Shape
Shoulders + Hips Equal = Athletic
Some of us spend hours in the gym to look the way you do, naturally! With muscular arms and defined shoulders, you’ll want to show off that amazing physique with scoop necklines, halter and racerback styles as well as strapless dresses. The fun part about dressing up an athletic frame is that you get to choose which feature you’d like to accentuate most – if you’re more for showing some leg action, go for a high slit maxi dress or a mini-dress with a hiked-up hemline. If you’re looking to show off your bust, opt for plunging necklines or a boobtube dress.
Style tip: draping and ruching are quintessential favourites when looking to play up your curves.
While we have only touched on a few of the common body shapes and types, there are so many more to discover and celebrate. The key idea is to not only work what you’ve got, but to feel comfortable working it. As Denise Bidot once said, “there is no wrong way to be a woman”.
Discover a range of dresses for women with different cuts, silhouettes, trending and classic styles to suit your body and taste in our online store under dresses.
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