Choosing the Right Dress for Your Body Type
February 19, 2009 by Meieli Detoni
Filed under Plus Size
Not every dress is made for every woman. When clothes shopping, you need to keep your body type in mind in order to look your best. No matter your size, you can find a pretty dress that flatters your figure.
Pear Shape
Many plus-size women have pear-shaped bodies — full hips and thighs, along with a smaller upper body. For this figure type, choose a dress with an A-line skirt that hits right at knee-length. Don’t pick a dress that is too short and full or you will end up looking like you are wearing a ballerina tu-tu. To draw the attention away from your lower half, select a dress with an interesting neckline. Consider a color-block dress with a black skirt and white (or light) top portion.
Apple Shape
Plus-size women that carry their weight in the middle need to move the focus away from their waistline to elongate the look of their torso. Apple boy types can re-define a thick waist by moving the line up or down with an empire or drop waist dress. If you want to wear a belt, don’t pull it tight around your middle, instead sling it low on your hips.
Tips for Everyone
Don’t try to cover up with super baggy clothes. Despite what you might think, you will look even bigger. Instead select fabrics that skim near your body, draping nicely. Don’t pick anything that is too tight or binding.
Halter necklines offer a sexy look that is flattering to most plus-size women. You can draw attention to your assets (bust) and away from your flaws.
Prints are a fun choice but do them right. Don’t pick tiny prints — they will make you look larger. However don’t pick super big prints either. They can be overwhelming.
When it comes to shoes, skip the ankle straps if you have thick ankles (especially if you are short). They cut the line of your legs, making them appear thicker and stumpier.
Don’t be afraid of color. No matter how much you want to slenderize your look by wearing black everyday, don’t be afraid to mix it up with color. Women are beautiful in all shapes and sizes, so flaunt what you’ve got. Every woman should have one bold red dress. Men love ladies in red!
Image: Nordstrom
