Shape Guide

What's Your Shape?

With the dozens of dress styles that are available, how do you find a style that really complements you? First you have to take a long, hard look in your mirror and determine your shape.

The basic body types are:

Description: You are short or tall. You are bottom heavy. Your hips, bottom, thighs are larger than your upper body.

Ideal Choices: Empire; A-line; Ball gown

Suggestions: Flatter your best assets (your top half) with dresses that accentuate the bodice and loosely flow over the body. Strapless bodices are the best choice for your body type. Choose either an A-line, empire or ball gown and favor a strapless bustier or a halter with a circular neckline.

Description: You are short or tall. You have a heavier mid-section than the rest of your body. You are thick-waisted or you have an undesired tummy

Ideal Choices: Empire; A-line

Suggestions: Empire gowns look best on this type of figure. The high waist de-emphasizes your mid-section and lengthens your overall silhouette. If you choose to go with an A-line gown, it is ideal that you choose a bodice with boning for a slimming effect.

Description: You are short or tall. You have a large frame. You are straight throughout with no visible curves. You have wide shoulders and toned legs

Ideal Choices: Empire; Ball gown

Suggestions: Try an empire gown that will add definition and shape to your silhouette. For full definition opt for a ball gown, the full skirt and form-fitting bodice will instantly highlight your waistline and give you a natural feminine shape.

Description: You are short or tall. You have wide shoulders.

Ideal Choices: Sheath; Empire; A-line, Ball Gown

Suggestions: Dresses that reveal your shoulders are best. Covering your shoulders may make them look bigger. A halter or strapless style with a narrow bodice looks best.

Description: You are 5’6” or taller. You have no visible curves. You are slender throughout. Your shoulders and hips are approximately the same width. You have an average sized bust.

Ideal Choices: Sheath; Empire; A-line, Ball Gown

Suggestions: Want the appearance of a fuller chest, try an empire style dress. Transform your body into a feminine hourglass by adding detail at the waistline (a belt, ribbons, shirring, or darts).

So, when you're shopping, use edressme's shape guide to help you select the right dress for your shape.