Finding the perfect dress can be a challenge, as every woman wants a style that flatters her body shape while staying on-trend. The key is not just following trends but choosing a dress that enhances your best features and makes you feel confident.
In this guide, we’ve put together expert tips on selecting dresses that complement different body types—whether you have an hourglass, pear, athletic, or oval shape —so you can look and feel your best all season long!
1. Hourglass
If you have an hourglass figure, you likely have a naturally curvy shape with a well-defined waist, and your bust and hip measurements are nearly equal. You may also have a fuller bust, hips, or thighs.
To highlight your best features, choose dresses that cinch at the waist, such as wrap dresses, belted styles, or designs with V-necklines and open necklines. These cuts enhance your curves while maintaining balance.
Avoid shapeless or overly loose styles like babydoll dresses, as they can hide your waist and make your silhouette appear boxy rather than flattering.
2. Triangle
You may have a pear or triangle body shape if your hips are fuller than your shoulders, your waist is more defined, and you carry more volume in your lower body.
To create a balanced silhouette, choose dresses that add definition and volume to your upper body. This helps draw attention upward and creates a more proportionate look.
Go for styles with embellished or wide necklines, open-back designs, dramatic sleeveless cuts, or belted waists to accentuate your slender upper body. A-line dresses are a flattering choice, and hemlines that fall just below the knee help elongate your frame while subtly slimming the hips and thighs.
Avoid oversized or shapeless dresses, overly voluminous skirts, ultra-short hemlines, and clingy fabrics, as these can either overwhelm your frame or draw attention away from your natural curves rather than enhancing them.
3. Rectangle
The rectangle body type, also known as the athletic build, typically features a straight silhouette with shoulders and hips of similar width and a less defined waistline. The goal when dressing this body type is to create the illusion of curves by adding dimension and balance to your frame.
To enhance your figure, opt for dresses with ruffles, embellishments, or volume-boosting details—similar to styles that suit the pear shape. A-line or fit-and-flare dresses work well, as they help add shape and balance broader shoulders. Wrap dresses and belted styles can also create the illusion of a more defined waist.
Avoid ultra-short hemlines, as they can make your upper body appear heavier. Strapless styles and spaghetti straps may lack the necessary support, especially if you have a fuller bust. Similarly, stretchy fabrics or dresses with ruching or ruffles around the bust area can overemphasise the straightness of your torso rather than creating curves.
4. Round
Women with round or oval body types tend to carry weight in the midsection, with proportional shoulders and hips but a less defined waist.
To create a balanced silhouette, opt for dresses that draw attention to the upper body. Belted styles define the waist, while A-line dresses gently flare out, skimming over the midsection for a flattering fit. Flowy fabrics and structured cuts help enhance your shape without clinging.
Avoid bodycon dresses or styles with heavy embellishments around the waist. Instead, choose designs that drape elegantly, creating a streamlined and flattering look.
Final Thoughts on Styling Dresses for Different Body Shapes
Every body is beautifully unique, and you don’t have to fit into a single category. Many women have a mix of body shapes, and these style tips are just a guide to help you discover what suits you best. The key is to experiment and find what makes you feel confident and comfortable.
Find your perfect dress without the stress—shop online and have it delivered to your doorstep with just a click! At Ballentynes Fashion Central, we have a curated selection of dresses designed to flatter every body shape—whether you're hourglass, pear, athletic, or round. Plus, explore our seasonal lookbook for styling inspiration and outfit ideas to complete your look effortlessly!