Springtime is the time for dresses! But sometimes it’s not easy to find the right dress style to not only suit, but flatter, your body type. Have no fear, though…because we have some fool-proof tips for finding the best dresses for you, and just in time for Spring!

Boyish – Boyish figures are typically defined as having small breasts, no defined waist, and narrow hips. So, when shopping for a dress, you want to find one that helps create curves and a more feminine shape. That means dresses with fuller or structured sleeves, a nipped in waist (you can always add a belt), and a fuller skirt. Ruffles and frills always help to add a touch of femininity, and because your frame is narrower, you can also look for embellishments and bold designs.  Some great options for your frame include dresses like this, this, and this.

Busty/Hourglass– Ah, the blessing and the curse of dressing a busty figure! If this is you, then you know the perpetual balancing act of trying not to look like you’re wearing a shapeless tent, and trying not to look like you’re one misdemeanor away from spending the night in jail. For a perfect in-between, look for dresses that are fit-and-flare, A-line, and tie-waist. These will help define your shape, without being overly clingy or revealing. Perfect picks include dresses like this, this, and this.

Apple – Apple figures are typically defined by having a fuller, round middle and slimmer thighs, carrying much of their weight from the face to the abdomen. So, the goal of a good dress is to create a waist and a more feminine shape without adding extra bulk. Look for wrap dresses, those with an empire waist, or those with a full A-line skirt. Try to avoid anything that is made from a clingy material. Dresses like this, this, and this are excellent jumping-off points in finding what works for you.

Pear – If you have more of a pear shaped figure, you will likely be narrow through the shoulders, with smaller breasts, and much fuller though the hips, lower stomach, and bottom. This means you will be looking for dresses that add volume to your top half, accentuate your waist, and then skim out and away from your hips and thighs. Try to avoid extra embellishments and loud colors and patterns on the bottom half. Some good options for you include dresses like this, this, and this.

 

Image by brianna.lehman is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 (source: flickr)