Looking good for all those holiday gatherings might be stressing you out. All those pictures, all those people to impress, all those occasions to look festive but fashionable. Shopping for the perfect holiday party dress starts with understanding what your figure needs to be flattered. Identify your own unique fashion needs to pick up the perfect holiday party dress this year.
Find your shape, read your shopping guide tips, and you’re ready to party in style!
Big-Busted Figure
In the wrong dress, a big bust can make you look heavier than you are, so focus on detailing and drawing attention downward from the chest area. Choose a dress with wider, bra-friendly straps that provide some support. Also remember to avoid high necklines, which can emphasize a chest rather than hide it. Pick a dress with a neckline that’s not too high or not too low, showing just enough of the upper chest area to detract from the bust. Diane Von Furstenberg makes a black, wide-strap scoopneck dress that is understated, adorable, and just one way to dress for a big bust.
Apple-Shaped Figure
If you have a wider midsection, you’ll want to dress for success with a flattering neckline and strategic fabric rouching around your waist. For apple shapes, the combination of an empire-line neck and a slight a-line silhouette can make the body look longer and leaner, diverting attention from the natural waist line. Jessica London is a plus size designer that offers many great choices for apple-shaped women, perfect for the holidays.
Pear-Shaped Figure
If you have a pear-shaped figure, your problem areas are all toward the bottom of your frame, so you’ll want to draw more attention upward. Choose a dress with a fluid bottom that won’t cling to your hips and thighs, with an emphasis on your shoulders and arms. Tunic-style silhouettes with feminine detailing at the top can easily (and fashionably) hide a heavier bottom half. The Sleeveless Cowl-Neck Tunic dress by Pure & Simple is a smart choice for any holiday occasion.
Curve-less Figure
For “boy shapes” without curves, you’ll want to create a curvy look. To give yourself the hourglass look, choose a draping dress with a print or pattern. For a larger frame, choose a larger pattern and vice versa for smaller frames. You can also choose feminine fabrics, like chiffon, to enhance the curvy, flowing look. I love the draping and waist tie dress with the red and white pattern by Suzi Chin – it has all of the above, plus timeless style.
With these style guidelines in mind, your perfect holiday party dress is within reach. Try on different dresses and don’t get frustrated. There’s a great dress out there to flatter your figure and you will find it if you know where to look.
References:
Beauty by Ella. How to dress for your body shape. NBC Today: Style. The best dress for your body type.
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