How to Choose a Dress for Your Body Shape: A Simple Guide
Almond ChicChoose a dress by the cut you like and feel comfortable in, then use necklines, waistlines and skirt shapes to highlight the proportions you want to show. There are no rules about what you can wear: body shapes are only a starting point. This guide explains the main silhouettes and which dress details usually work with each one. For more on dress lengths and fabrics, read our complete guide to types of dresses.
Which dress details create which effect?
| If you want to... | Look for |
|---|---|
| Define the waist | Wrap dresses, belts, sashes, fitted bodices |
| Add shape or volume to the hips | A-line, full-skirt and tiered dresses |
| Balance broad shoulders | V-necks, halter necks and flowing skirts |
| Create a longer line | V-necks, vertical details and maxi lengths |
| Feel relaxed and comfortable | Loose-fit dresses with soft fabrics |
What dress suits an hourglass shape?
An hourglass shape has balanced shoulders and hips with a defined waist. Wrap dresses, belted styles and fitted waists show this proportion. Try a floral wrap midi dress or a strapless maxi dress with sash.
What dress suits a rectangle shape?
A rectangle shape has shoulders, waist and hips of similar width. To create the look of a waist, choose belts, sashes, ruffles and tiers. A sweetheart full-skirt midi dress adds volume below the waist.
What dress suits a pear shape?
A pear shape has hips that are wider than the shoulders. Details at the neckline and shoulders, such as one-shoulder cuts, halter necks and square necklines, draw the eye upwards, while A-line skirts skim over the hips. Try a floral A-line halter maxi dress.
What dress suits an inverted triangle shape?
An inverted triangle shape has shoulders that are wider than the hips. V-necks, soft necklines and skirts with movement balance the proportions. A draped V-neck pleated midi dress is a good example.
What dress suits an apple or round shape?
An apple or round shape carries weight around the middle. Loose fits, empire-style lines, V-necks and wrap cuts are comfortable and keep attention on the neckline and legs. Try an one-shoulder loose maxi dress or an abstract print wrap midi dress.
Are there dresses in larger sizes?
Yes. Sizes range from XS to 5XL depending on the style, and each product has its own size chart. Browse our plus size collection and check the size guide before ordering.
How to get the right fit
- Measure yourself. Measure your bust, waist and hips and compare them with our size guide and the chart on the product page.
- Check the fit description. Each product page says if the dress is fitted, relaxed or loose.
- Think about comfort. A dress that is comfortable for the whole day always looks better.
- Try different cuts. Your favourite cut may not follow the usual advice, and that is fine.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know my body shape?
Compare your shoulder, waist and hip measurements. If they are similar, you have a rectangle shape. If the hips are wider, a pear shape. If the shoulders are wider, an inverted triangle. If the waist is clearly smaller than both, an hourglass.
What type of dress suits most body shapes?
A wrap dress in a midi length suits many shapes, as the waist is adjustable and the cut is easy to wear.
What dress should I wear if I do not like my waist or stomach area?
Look for loose or flowing dresses, wrap cuts and empire lines. Choose a fabric that falls well and a neckline you like.
Which neckline is the most versatile?
A V-neck. It lengthens the line of the neck and works with most dress cuts.
Do I have to follow body shape rules?
No. These tips are a starting point only. Wear the dresses that you like and feel good in.
