Shape Guide
Apples and Pears, Empires and Princesses – Dress shopping can get complicated. Finding the right dress is easy if you just know what to look for. It's as simple as knowing that your body has a shape, and so does your dress. Make the two work together and you've found the secret to looking great.
Find your shape below to learn which shapes, necklines and details will flatter it.
Apple
Apple
Your Shape:You appear to be top heavy since you have a full chest and upper back. The overall goal is to skim over areas that de-emphasize those problematic areas.
Flatter It:Deep V-neck, Strapless and Sweetheart will accentuate your bust and curves. Empire, A-line, and Ball Gown will give the illusion of slimming the waistline.
Hourglass
Hourglass
Your Shape: Considered the ideal figure because your shapely top and bottom are about equal in size and the waist is narrow. The goal is to accentuate your waist, do not add bulk to your hips and shoulders.
Flatter It: Scoop, V-neck, One-Shoulder, Strapless or Halter are great necklines; Sheath, A-Line, Ball Gown, Dropped Waistline, Mermaid, or Fit & Flare adds extra femininity to the goddess of women’s bodies.
Pear
Pear
Your Shape: A well-defined waist, with a small bust and the lower half of your figure appears fuller, so it's important to create more balance.
Flatter It: An A-line, A Princess or Ball Gown will skim the hips and slim the waist. Highlight the upper body with dramatic necklines like a V-neck, a Halter, Asymmetrical or Off-the-shoulder. You get bonus figure flattering points with ruching, ruffles, beading or wrapping at the bodice.
Petite
Petite
Your Shape: 5ft 4in (1.62m) or under.
Flatter It: A-lines and Sheath/Columns are the perfect match for a small frame to wear; while an Empire will lengthen the body. Off-the-shoulder, Scoop, Bateau and Halter necklines will play up the shoulders; be wary of elaborate embellishments, Ball Gowns or Mermaids, for they can easily overwhelm a small frame.
Rectangles
Rectangles
Your Shape: A well balanced body with slightly boyish shaped since the waist is not well defined.
Flatter It: Scoops, V-neck, Strapless or Off-the-shoulder necklines are perfect. Add a little ruffle, drapes or wrapped detailing at the bust to make the most of your curves. You have the perfect figure for an A-line, Sheath/Column, Mermaid or a Ball Gown for they are tailored at the waist.
Plus Size
Plus Size
Your Shape: Size 16W and up.
Flatter It: A-lines, Empires and Ball Gowns flatter the curves you have and love and hide those spots you are no so proud of. Draping can gracefully skim curves, while a V-neck or Scoop neckline can show off a full bust nicely. Wraps and Jackets are the perfect balance for a dramatic neckline.
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