Sunday, March 22, 2009

Dresses for Every Body Type

Spring Dressing

In my opinion there is no better time to add a pretty dress to your wardrobe than spring, and this season dresses are in full bloom everywhere! With the seasonal palette including colors ranging from nudes and neutrals to eye-poppping vibrant hues, you're sure to find gorgeous dresses in all shapes and styles. But do you know which ones are right for your body type?

Take a peek at our guide to buying one that will be the most flattering on you. Once you're armed with this important information, dressing will be a breeze.

Hourglass figures are very curvy with balanced hips and shoulders. The most important thing an hourglass can do is to find a dress that has waistline emphasis. Sack dresses are not for you. You've got the curves, now go flaunt them! Show off your shoulders in this bombshell halter dress and you'll show off your assets a la Marilyn Monroe, a classic hourglass figure.

Pear Shape figures have a smaller upper body with most of their weight in the hips, thighs and buttocks. Choose a dress that visually creates balance with a sleeve or high neckline atop a full skirt that gracefully grazes the body. Avoid sleeveless dresses because they'll create a visual un-balance and can emphasize your heavy bottom half.

Apple Shape figures have a larger upper body than lower half with little waist definition. Create the illusion of a waistline with a self-belt or tie. A V-neckline draw the eye downward, creating visual balance.

Rounded body types have a large chest, a protuding tummy and fullness through hips. Choose a dress in a darker solid for a sleek, minimizing effect. An open neckline helps to elongate the body and a soft tie at the waistline gives the illusion of a defined waist.

When it comes to hemlines, forget about what's "in" and what's "out" and go with the most timeless, flattering length - knee length or slightly above. This shows off great legs and will make you appear taller. If you must go longer, take care to ensure your hemline does not hit at the widest point of your calf. It will make your legs appear shorter and longer.

Happy spring dressing!

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