There are several elements to take into account when shopping for a formal dress. You need to consider the type of event you’re going to, the dress code, the colour of the dress, and that the dress complements your body type.
Finding a dress that adds balance to the natural shape of your body is the key to finding your perfect dress. Knowing which body shape you are can help in your quest to find the right formal outfit. It’s not as daunting as it sounds. Here, we discuss how to find a dress for your body type.
- Apple Shape
An apple-shaped body usually as slim thighs and legs and a wider upper body and round mid-section. If this is you, look for a style that best suites your body’s proportions, such as pieces that create a defined waist and a plunging neckline, like a deep V-neck or sweetheart shape. Off-the shoulder styles will also look great. A dramatic ball gown with a voluminous skirt can also add balance to your apple silhouette. - Hourglass Shape
If you’re an hourglass shape, you have a narrow waist and bust and hips that are equal in width. This body shape looks amazing in figure-hugging dresses, and jersey dresses, as well as those with open backs. A high neckline will help to show off your shape, as will block colour dresses. - Petite Shape
If you’re petite, you’re shorter in stature and have short, slim upper body. Choose dresses in a block colour that won’t break up your body shape and will elongate your silhouette. You may also want to consider dresses that have a higher belted waist to give the impression of longer legs. - Busty Shapes
If you have a fuller bust, strike a balance with pieces that support and highlight your bust and balance your lower body. A-line skirts add proportion and flare, and mermaid dresses will highlight your figure with a tight bodice. Go to ZAFUL to see some of the amazing dresses that are perfect for your body shape. - Pear Shape
If you have a pear shaped body, you’re blessed with narrower shoulders and wider thighs and hips. This is easy to balance, though. Add a few pretty details to the upper body, and a flowing skirt to your lower half. Pear shape bodies look beautiful in formal dresses that have plunging bodices or halter-necks. Beadwork on the upper half will help to draw attention upwards. - Slender Shape
Athletic body shapes have rectangular figures and very few curves. Look for formal dresses that hug the bust and hips in a subtle way, and those with flared tails or narrowed waists. Sweetheart necklines can add sexy curves to your shape when paired with a trumpet or mermaid skirt, but stay away from column dresses that will not complement your figure.
These are just some of the most typical body types. If you don’t fit into any of them, don’t panic. You can use your measurements to decide which parts of your body you want to hide, and which you want to highlight.
