Finding the Perfect Prom Dress for Your Body Type

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Photo: Pretty Little Liars "The Last Dance" Episode via Bustle.com

All little girls dream about prom as they grow up. The memories you make during this celebration are sure to last a lifetime. Apart from the dancing, the laughing, and the memory-making, every girl will remember their perfect prom dress. 

Finding your ideal outfit can be extremely time-consuming. Except for men because they only wear a black suit from brands like Gentleman’s Guru. To make things a bit easier, here are the most flattering prom dresses for every type of body. 

Pear-Shaped 

Girls with a pear-shaped body tend to have well-defined waists with fuller thighs and hips. Ideally, you want to attract the eye’s attention to the upper half of your body. This means looking for dresses that accentuate the shoulders and elongate the lower half of your body. 

We recommend off-the-shoulder dresses, V-neck silhouettes, and empire waist gowns.  

Apple-Shaped

Ladies with apple-shaped bodies tend to have a wider torso and broad shoulders. Therefore, these body types will suit dresses that create an elongated effect and a smaller waistline. Fuller skirts and empire waists can help you achieve this look. 

We recommend staying away from fitted gowns and opting for a floor-length gown with a low neckline or patterned top half. 

Hourglass Figure 

Hourglass figures tend to have a very defined waistline with equally sized hips and shoulders. This figure tends to suit dresses that complement the waistline and elongate the lower half of your body

We recommend that you don’t hide that waistline! Wrap dresses, belted dresses, sweetheart necklines, and fitted silhouettes are great dresses for prom 

Rectangular Figure 

Those with a rectangular figure should try to find a dress that will create dimension. This effect can be achieved with a cinched waist, high slit, or with a color-blocked dress. 

We recommend looking for dresses with asymmetric detailing, trumpet skirts, or even mermaid silhouettes. You could also choose to embrace your natural shape and go for a fitted look instead. 

Plus-Size  

Plus-sized girls should avoid dresses that lack fit at all costs and instead opt for dresses that will flatter their curves – not hide them! Try to avoid halter or strapless dresses and look for styles that will accentuate your waistline. 

We recommend looking for dresses that have cap sleeves or A-line silhouettes. 

Petite

Petite girls are not classified by weight but rather by height. If you are 5”3 or under, you are considered to have a petite figure. Therefore, you should look for dresses that will elongate your body and give the illusion of height. 

We recommend looking for dresses that have short or asymmetrical hemlines, or even vertical prints.  

Prom is the perfect chance for every girl to feel like a princess, even if it’s just for a day. Part of feeling like a princess is definitely looking the part. You want to feel beautiful, confident, and comfortable in your dress. An easy way to do this is by sticking to a type of dress that will flatter your figure. Take our tips on board and make this a night that you’ll never forget.