While keeping up with fashion is certainly important for achieving a stylish and elegant look, it’s not the only factor to consider! When choosing plus-size dresses according to body type, there are several key elements to keep in mind—especially if you want to reflect your personal style and put together well-balanced outfits. The most crucial step is understanding your body shape and choosing clothes accordingly. Selecting plus-size dresses that suit your body type is essential to achieving the most flattering style.
As Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Over the years I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.” The biggest takeaway? Dressing according to your body type! With the motto “Fashion suits every body,” Luokk shares essential tips for selecting plus-size dresses according to different body shapes. Let’s dive in!
How Should Plus-Size Women Dress?
For plus-size women, the right dress is crucial for both comfort and elegance. Cuts that gently emphasize the waist are ideal. A-line dresses that cinch slightly at the waist and flare at the bottom highlight the waistline while balancing out the hips and thighs for a more proportionate silhouette.
Dark colors and vertical stripes help create the illusion of a longer, slimmer figure, while overly patterned fabrics should be avoided to maintain balance. V-neck dresses are great for elongating the neck and drawing attention to the face. Instead of thin fabrics, go for mid-weight, flowing materials—they hug the body comfortably without feeling tight. Finally, opt for simple accessories to complete your look with grace.
Plus-Size Dress Choices for Pear-Shaped Bodies
The pear body shape, which is common especially among Mediterranean women, is characterized by a narrow upper body and wider hips. With the right dress, this shape can be perfectly balanced. If you have a pear-shaped figure, emphasize your slender waist while visually broadening your shoulders. A-line dresses help subtly camouflage the hips and create a graceful silhouette.
For Inverted Triangle Body Shapes
The inverted triangle body shape features broad shoulders, a regular waist, and slender legs. The key to dressing this shape is to balance the wide upper body with the lower half. Vibrant, patterned dresses and pleated skirts are perfect for this!
Colorful and highly patterned garments draw attention away from the shoulders and help achieve overall balance. Additionally, choose medium-sized handbags that don’t sit at your waist to complement your outfit. Browse our categories for the best picks for this body type.
Plus-Size Dress Options for Apple-Shaped Bodies
Apple-shaped bodies typically have a broader upper body and slimmer lower legs. If this sounds like you, opt for dresses that leave the lower legs visible.
By showing off your legs, you can balance out the proportions between your upper and lower body. Pencil skirts and fitted dresses, when paired with the right pieces, will beautifully highlight your body shape. Check out our midi dress category for the best choices.
Dressing the Hourglass Figure
The hourglass figure is one of the most common body types and is generally easier to dress. It features broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and wider hips. The most important tip for this shape is to wear fitted clothing on the upper body. Avoid oversized garments, which can make your figure appear bulkier. Instead, choose fitted dresses and accentuate your waist with a belt.
Regardless of dress length, adding a belt helps define your waist and showcase your curves. Just make sure the dress fabric and belt style complement each other.
Dress Selection for Rectangular Body Types
If you have a rectangular figure, your body measurements are generally balanced with minimal waist definition. Focus on highlighting the waist area to add curves.
Similar to the hourglass shape, belted dresses or dresses with waist definition will create a graceful silhouette. For footwear, pointed-toe shoes add elegance and complete your overall look.
For Oval Body Shapes
Oval body shapes are defined by a broad chest and full bust. For this body type, opt for outfits that create a balanced appearance across the upper body. V-necklines are ideal as they elongate the neck and balance the upper and lower body proportions.
V-neck dresses not only flatter your silhouette but also add elegance, making them a great advantage for women with this body shape.
Choosing Dresses for Spoon-Shaped Bodies
Very similar to the pear shape, the spoon body type features hips that are wider than the upper body. Resembling the number 8, this shape benefits from strapless or bateau neckline dresses that are lighter on top and darker on the bottom.
Form-fitting dresses that hug the waist without any looseness are ideal. A-line dresses are also a good option for achieving a balanced look.
Dress Tips for Bell-Shaped Bodies
The bell shape features wider hips and busts that align with the shoulders. Similar to the oval shape, the upper torso is more prominent. The key advantage here is well-shaped lower legs.
Focus on dresses that highlight your curves and create balance at the bust. You have full freedom in color choice! Off-the-shoulder and strapless dresses are also flattering for this body type. Discover the elegance of plus-size fashion with Luokk!
