How to dress for your body shape
Categories: GeneralRemember that sparkly little dress that was in the sales that you just had to buy? Yes, the one that’s been gathering dust in the back of your wardrobe! Well, to help you put an end to those cringe worthy fashion mistakes, we’ve put together a short guide on what you should be buying to flatter your body shape, and make you feel great.
The pear shaped-figure
If you are bottom heavy with full thighs and calves, and have a slender neck, narrow shoulders and a small bust u
p top, then like most women you have a pear-shaped figure. Embrace your womanly figure by drawing attention to your defined waist. When choosing a dress keep bold prints to the top half, and wear dresses that are straight or slightly flared – the maxi dress is made for pear shapes!
The apple shaped-figure
Apple shapes are round and well proportioned, but generally carry a little more weight around their middles. You will also have slim arms and legs to be 
envious off, so make the most of your best features with these tips. A-line and empire dresses work well with apple-shaped bodies as they conceal the tummy area and accentuate your gorgeous curves. Avoid ‘figure hugging’ materials, and look for materials that skim the waistline to avoid drawing attention to your tummy.
The hourglass shaped-figure
The curvaceous hourglass figure is often thought of as the ideal feminine silhouette, and is it any wonder? With a
well-defined waist, full bottom and thighs, and proportionate shoulders and hips, you girls have a figure to be proud of! Straight up and down dresses are unflattering to your curves, so go for a dress that cinches you in at the waist and shows off your tiny middle; wrap dresses do exactly this. Avoid any unnecessary frills, ruffles or pleats as these will add bulk to your figure and look for dresses with a V neckline.
The rectangle shaped-figure
Females with rectangular shaped bodies have a straight up and down figure. You will have very little waist definition, a s
mall bust and slim arms and legs. Although having this figure means you can get away with wearing almost anything, women with this shape may sometimes feel unfeminine so it’s all about creating the illusion of curves through the right clothing. Increase your feminine appeal with busy patterns and prints; however, avoid vertical stripes as they have a slimming effect. Opt for a dress that falls loosely on the hips and fits tightly around the top half, as this will show off your lean slender figure while creating the illusion of a natural curvy waist. Any dress that has an embellished waistline will also have the same effect, while adding a bit of sparkle to your outfit – 2 in 1!
Now you’re ready to shop your heart out!
With thanks to Extreme, Gino Cerruti and Sparkle for providing the images.
