Style | The Ultimate Dress Shopping Guide for Your Body Shape

Figuring out what your body shape is can seem like the worst chore you’ve ever had. I never used to see what the big deal was until I realized shopping for a new dress felt like a nightmare. A small might have fit my waist perfectly but was way too tight in my hips. I kept on telling myself I’ll take care of it next week, and ended up being empty handed 3 days before a wedding or party. What I didn’t realize was that shopping for a new dress didn’t have to feel like the end of the world, If I just that what a dress shopping guide could make my life so much easier. So we’ve narrowed down the five different body shapes and what that means for your clothing choices. Shopping should be fun, easy, and exciting! Here’s our ultimate dress shopping guide for each body shape.

 

Rectangle (A.K.A. Athletic)

If your shoulders and hips are the same widths, you fit in with the rectangles! I have tons of friends who hate their body shape because of the lack of curves that come with this body shape. However – just you’re a little more narrow, doesn’t mean there are not styles that will make you feel beautiful.

Styles to Consider:

• Draped dresses
• Cinched waist dresses
• Shift dresses

Why?

Draped dresses and cinched waist dresses help to highlight the curves that you do have, or at least give the illusion of a curvy figure. Shift dresses that have detailing, such as embroidery, a pattern, a low neckline, or pleating also help to add curves to your body and give your shape some definition. Make sure you avoid shift dresses that are too plain or stiff.

Triangle (A.KA. Pear)

If your shoulders are narrower than your hips and thighs, welcome to the triangle club! If your go-to is always your favorite pair of jeans, you might be self-conscious about your hips and thighs. But you are so wrong! Dresses should absolutely be a part of your wardrobe, once you find the best styles for your body shape!

Styles to Consider:

• Fit-and-flare dresses
• A-line dresses
• Shirt dresses

Why?

Fit-and-flare dresses will not only be the most flattering for your narrow upper body, but it will also make you feel the most comfortable. A-line dresses float over the hips perfectly so you can flaunt your upper body while keeping it roomy from the waist down. Make sure you’re picky about the details of your chosen dress. Patterns, bold elements, and pockets located in the hips may draw extra attention.

Inverted Triangle

If your shoulders are wider than your hips, your body shape might be an inverted triangle. Pay close attention to how you wear your clothes. Do you always buy larger shirts and smaller bottoms? You may hate your broad shoulders, but this is such a desirable body shape, especially for models! Naomi Campbell, Renée Zellweger, and Demi Moore are just some of the idolized celebrities with this body shape.

Styles to Consider:

• A-line dresses
• Peplum dresses
• Maxi dresses

Why?

A-line dresses are perfect for creating the longed-for proportionate body as it adds volume to the waist. Peplum dresses are perfect for women with broad shoulders as it helps create an ideal balance by adding some flare to the hips. Maxi dresses are not only unbelievably comfortable and effortless, but they also create the illusion of a long torso. Tight dresses, such as bodycon dresses, also tend to look amazing on you as they highlight your waist and hips!

Apple

 

An apple-shaped figure has shoulders and hips about the same widths. However, your waist isn’t very defined and you have a full bust and round stomach. You may also have long, thin legs! The weight distribution for you is mostly in your mid-section.

Styles to Consider:

• Swing dresses
• Drop-waist dresses
• Empire dresses

Why?

Swing dresses are super flattering for you because they flow right over your midsection and show off your amazing legs. Drop-waist dresses will give the illusion of a longer and leaner torso as it is loose around your stomach yet narrow around the hips. Empire dresses are perfect for you because they highlight your bust while they flow right over your stomach. If you find a dress with a bold hem or neckline – you’re in luck! These will help take the focus away from your stomach area.

Hourglass

If you possess an hourglass shape, you’re in serious luck! Hourglass body-shapes have a narrow, well-defined waist, and a bust and hips that are about equal size and may even be large. You might think it’s challenging to dress yourself, but there are tons of dress perfect for your body shape. Don’t be afraid to show off your curvy figure! 

Styles to Consider:

• Wrap dresses
• Belted waist dresses
• Tight midi dresses

Why?

Wrap dresses are perfect for accentuating your waist and showing off your feminine figure while also keeping it classy. Dresses that include an adjustable belt are also amazing for showing off just how tiny your waist really is. Tight dresses that have a hemline around knee length really help to show off your curves by creating a strong silhouette of your figure.

Remember, when you’re trying to figure out what your body shape is, it’s not based on how much you weigh. The focus should be on how your weight is distributed.Make sure you’re focusing on wearing pieces that complement your figure, whatever that may be! If you’re still not confident that you found your body shape in our dress shopping guide, that’s okay. Every woman is different and we’re not here to define your body. Try looking at each category and see if you have any similarities, and figure out which styles you should avoid. There’s no shame in process of elimination! You deserve to dress boldly and feel beautiful. What are some of your favorite tips for a dress shopping guide? Leave your comments below!

Looking for inspiration to build your dream closet? Check out the post, 10 Wardrobe Essentials Every Woman Needs.

Check out Beth’s ebook “How to Curate and Cultivate Your Dream Wardrobe” to learn more about building your perfect closet. Her 168 YEAR-ROUND OUTFITS EBOOK will show you how to start a basic wardrobe with essential classic pieces to make year-round outfits.

XO

Gabby

Written by Gabriella Rangel with excerpts written by Erica Villafranca for Chic Galleria Publications, LLC.