Real Dresses For Real Bodies!

Real Simple gives us tips on how to select the proper fitting dress for most common problems we run into when choosing the right cut for our body type.

See if you’re on the list!

GOT FULL HIPS AND THIGHS?

Look for fit-and -flare shapes that have inverted pleats, shown on the dresses on left and center.

AVOID: Accordion, knife, and box pleats that begin at the waist.  They tend to pull open, making the body look wider.

WANNA HIDE YOUR TUMMY?

Look for bias pleats across the torso

(shown on far left) an Empire waist with crystal pleats

(shown on polka-dot style)  or an accordion A-line shift

(striped dress) which will minimize midsection bumps.

AVOID: Pleats that begin at the fullest part of the midsection, because they highlight the stomach.

                                                                    

GOT LARGE BUST?

Look for box pleats or bias pleats that are below the waist to balance the chest. Avoid: Shifts or trapeze cuts that hide the waist.

GOT A STRAIGHT FIGURE?

Look for a defined waist style with pleats running  over the bust and hip areas to create the illusion of curviness.

Avoid: Plain bodices with an inverted- or box-pleat skirt