Dressing for Your Figure | Tips for Dressing for Your Body Shape, Dress Style Advice, Dress Shapes, Body Shapes

Tips for Buying Your Dress | Dressing for Your Figure | Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Guide | Your Prom & Grad Dress Guide

Dressing for Your Figure

TALL Avoid vertical lines and very straight dresses. Choose an A-line style dress with a sash, belt, or different color top and bottom combination to break up your vertical line.

SHORT Take up the hemline - try a short dress. Choose a style with details at the top to draw the eye up. A short hem makes your legs look longer and gives you a taller line. Coodinate your accessories in the same color as your dress to keep the overall effect streamlined.

FULL FIGURE Opt for a solid color dress with simple lines or a vertical pattern. An empire waist with a skirt that flows away from the body helps to hide a tummy or hips, as does a medium A-line silhouette dress or gown. If you want to wear a sleeveless dress but don't like your arms, just add an elegant shawl or wrap to finish the look.

SKINNY Choose a dress made from a textured fabric instead of a slinky material. Go for layers, ruffles and ruching details on top or on the skirt to add more dimension to your figure.

LARGE BUST Avoid styles with detailing across the bust area. Choose a halter style neckline, or a dress with wider shoulder straps so you can wear a supportive bra underneath. Stay away from low cut necklines or tight fitting styles to avoid exposing too much cleavage.

SMALL BUST Choose a dress with details at the bust such as a sweetheart neckline, ruching, pleats, beading or other embelishments. Look for dresses with built-in bra pads or ones you can wear with a bra that creates some cleavage.