How to Select Best Suited Dress For Your Body Shape

Have you ever tried on a clothing style because it looked cute in a magazine or on a friend, only to look in the mirror and rush to take it off? If so, I feel your pain. Growing up with a taller, thinner, ballet-dancing sister, who looked great no matter what she wore, I always struggled to find styles that looked good on me. Over time, I’ve learned what works for my body, and I stick to those shapes, regardless of trends. Here’s how to dress for your body shape:

If you have curvy hips, avoid pleats and gathers because too much volume can make you look larger than you are. Instead of trying to camouflage yourself with volume, flaunt your curves in a flattering way by wearing fitted fashions. Look for pants and skirts with stretch, but make sure they’re made of substantial, stronger fabrics, like stretch twill and denim instead of thin, clingy jersey, to help smooth out any bulges.

If you’re petite, skirts are for you — just be sure to pick the right length. Even though they’re comfy, maxi skirts will drag on the ground and make you look as if you raided your mom’s closet. Likewise, midcalf lengths will look dowdy. Instead, show some leg so you look well-proportioned — your skirts should hit just at or above the knee. You can even wear a mini!

If you’re pear-shaped, A-line cuts are the most flattering for your petite top and fuller bottom. Avoid boxy cropped tops, baggy cardigans, and swingy jackets that make your waist disappear. Accentuate your smaller waist with belts and cropped, fitted jackets, tailored blouses, and slim-fitting tees. My trick to looking instantly slimmer is to have my pants pockets stitched shut so they don’t gap, giving me a sleeker line. A wrap dress is also very flattering, either for work or for nights out.

If you’re busty, make sure your close-fitting blouses and jackets are tailored perfectly so they don’t pull and gape open in the wrong places. Or opt for flowy tops that are more forgiving. Balance your proportions by choosing bottoms that have a bit more volume so you don’t look top-heavy — for example, pick boot-cut instead of skinny jeans, cargo pants instead of leggings.