When you are searching for the perfect dress for prom it’s important to find one that fits your body type. There are a few main body types: hourglass, apple, pear, top-heavy, rectangle/athletic, petite, plus size.
The key to finding the perfect dress for prom is to find one that suits your body type and also suits your complexion.
In this article, we will go through the main body types and what types of prom dresses will suit each body type. This will help you find the perfect dress for prom so you can look your best on the night.
Hourglass
A true hourglass figure will have equal proportions of hip and bust measurements, with a significantly smaller waist measurement.
Most dresses work well with a natural hourglass shape. It is important to find something that is really fitted through the waist to emphasize the small waist. Mermaid style gowns look great on women with hourglass shapes.
Apple
People with an apple-shaped figure genuinely have an undefined waist or large waist or hip measurements.
To disguise the larger waist area you should look for a prom dress that has an empire waist or patterned top. Fuller skirts and princess style cuts will help to hide your little section. Try to avoid dresses that are fitted throughout the body.
Pear
A pear-shaped figure generally means you have a smaller bust and waist measurement in comparison to large hips. You can rebalance your body shape by emphasizing your bust and waist area.
Search for a prom dress that has a detailed neckline or illusion neckline. These types of dresses tend to draw attention to the top half of your body rather than your hip area. Avoid ballgown style skirts which will draw more attention to your hip area.
Top Heavy
If you have a large bust area it is a good idea to minimize the area by opting for a shallow V-neck or off the shoulder style dress.
You can also opt for a prom dress that has a fuller skirt and fitted waist to offset the appearance of your bust area.
Rectangle/Athletic
If you are thin-framed and athletic you can wear nearly any style of dress. It is a good idea to wear a dress that accentuates your waist area.
Find a prom dress with a cinched waist to create some shape in your body. Avoid materials that are shiny and can emphasize your bones and limbs.
Petite
If you are 5’4 or under, you are considered petite by clothing stores. In order to elongate your body, you should opt for a short dress that shows off your legs.
Avoid full-length prom dresses and ballgowns which can look too big on a petite frame.
Plus Size
There are plenty of options out there when you are searching for the perfect plus size prom dress. You need to decide which feature you would like to show off.
Floor-length prom dresses are very flattering on full figures. Make sure you choose a dress that fits you perfectly. Avoid a dress with too much fabric that adds extra bulk to your body.
Purchase the Best Types of Prom Dresses for Your Shape
No matter which body shape you are, there are several different types of prom dresses out there for you to choose from. It is best to try on several different styles and see which one you like and which one suits your body perfectly.
For more fashion advice, take a look at the other articles on our blog!
