With the holiday season now in full swing, you can bet that there will be plenty of parties and gatherings to attend where you’ll have to add some pizzazz to your look. Getting to put on your favorite party dress is definitely one of the highlights of these festive winter months (doesn’t everyone love an excuse to dress up?). If you’re having trouble picking out the perfect dress that will play up your best features, then look no further.
Whatever your body shape may be, we’ve picked out some hot numbers that will amp up your look and have you spreading the holiday cheer in style!
**If you’re not sure what body type you are, check out the Body Type Calculator to find out! **
You have an Hourglass shape if:
- Your bust and hips are nearly the same size
- Small waist
- Full bust & shapely legs
For an hourglass shape, you want to accentuate your well-defined waist. Dresses that cinch in, or belt at the waist are an ideal cut for you to show off your shape. Also, try a dress that is fitted throughout. The tailored look will accentuate your curves. Avoid shift dresses or dresses that form a straight line from the bust to hips, this cut will make you look boxy.
You have an Apple shape if:
- Large bust
- Broad shoulders
- Less defined waist
- Narrow hips
With an apple shape, your focus is to slim your midsection and draw the eye upward. Look for dresses that have accents on the straps or bustline as this will draw the eye upward away from your tummy. A deep V-neckline looks amazing on your body shape, taking the attention away from your midsection. Styles that cinch in just below the bust, like an empire waistline, slim the lower half of your body. As far as length, dresses should fall just above the knees.
You have a Petite shape if:
- Height is 5’3″ or shorter
- Your body is well proportioned
- Generally slim
For a petite body shape, elongating your frame is the goal. Dresses with minimal details and simple lines will make your figure look longer and leaner. To keep the illusion of longer legs, make sure that your dress isn’t too long as this can actually make you look shorter. Avoid bulky styles or volume-adding details that will overwhelm your tiny frame.
You have a Pear shape if:
- Narrow shoulders
- Wider hips and thighs
- Small bust
For pear shapes, aim to accentuate your upper body to balance out your bottom half. Draw the eye up toward your chest and shoulders with dresses that have details near the neckline or bust. A dress with a fitted bodice or torso and a flowy bottom will flatter your figure the best. These cuts define your small waist look great on your figure, and A-line styles work best as well.
You have a Busty shape if:
- Cup is a “C” or above
- Lower body is petite to normal size in comparison to upper body
- Usually has a shorter waist
With a busty shape, focus on minimizing your top half and drawing attention downward. Look for belted dresses, A-line shapes, or styles with extra flounce on the bottom to balance out your upper body. Avoid any styles with added details on the shoulders or neckline that may accentuate your already large bust. Bold and big, printed patterns should also be avoided. Dresses that have wide straps or sleeves are best so that you can wear a full-support bra without the straps being exposed.
