Women's Style Guide: How to Choose the Best Dress for Your Body Type

With so many cuts, fabrics and styles to choose from, finding the best dress for your body type can sometimes feel like a guessing game. How do you know which one will best flatter your shape while keeping you comfortable, confident and ready for every occasion?

That’s why we’ve created this Lands’ End Women’s Dress Style Guide, to help you discover which silhouettes work best for different body types, from apple and pear to hourglass, triangle and rectangle. Whether you’re petite, curvy, tall or somewhere in between, you’ll find expert tips and versatile dress options designed to highlight your best features. With a bit of know-how (and the right wardrobe), choosing your perfect dress can be effortless.

Understanding Your Body Type

Before choosing the dress that flatters you most, it helps to understand your body type. Every figure is unique, but most shapes fall into a few general categories: apple, pear, hourglass, triangle and rectangle. Knowing your type isn’t about labeling yourself; it’s about finding a starting point that makes shopping easier and more enjoyable.

A quick way to identify your shape is to look at your proportions in the mirror or measure your bust, waist and hips. For example, an apple shape typically carries fullness around the midsection, while a pear shape has a smaller upper body and fuller hips. Hourglass figures feature balanced curves with a defined waist. Triangle shapes have broader shoulders and narrower hips and rectangle silhouettes are more straight-lined with minimal curves.

Once you know your body type, choosing the right dress becomes less about guesswork and more about highlighting what you love most. And because Lands’ End offers a wide range of styles and sizes, from petite to plus, you can shop with confidence, knowing there’s a dress designed with you in mind.

Dresses for Apple-Shaped Bodies

If you have an apple-shaped figure, your midsection tends to be fuller while your arms and legs are often slimmer. The key to finding the best dress for an apple shape is choosing styles that draw attention upward and create definition at the waist without clinging too tightly to the midsection.

Flattering options include empire waist dresses that sit just below the bust, wrap styles that create a natural curve and A-line dresses that skim away from the body for a smooth silhouette. These cuts balance proportions while highlighting your legs — one of your best features.

At Lands’ End, you’ll find picks like breathable cotton modal dresses, structured shirt dresses and fit-and-flare silhouettes that deliver comfort without sacrificing shape. Soft fabrics and thoughtful tailoring mean you can enjoy both ease and elegance, whether you’re dressing for a casual outing or a special occasion.

Dresses for Pear-Shaped Bodies

Pear-shaped figures typically have a smaller upper body with fuller hips and thighs. The goal in choosing the best dress for a pear shape is to balance proportions by drawing the eye upward and defining your waistline.

Styles like fit-and-flare dresses emphasize your waist while gracefully flowing over the hips. A-line silhouettes are another classic choice, creating balance without adding bulk. For a touch of fun, consider off-the-shoulder or boat necklines, which bring focus to your shoulders and neckline, evening out your overall look.

Lands’ End offers flattering pear-shaped options such as breezy maxi dresses, structured shirt dresses and versatile fit-and-flare styles. With sizes ranging from petite to plus, you’ll find pieces that fit comfortably and help you feel confident in every setting, from a casual afternoon to a polished evening out.

Dresses for Hourglass Figures

Hourglass shapes are defined by balanced proportions; a fuller bust and hips with a naturally defined waist. When choosing the best dress for your body type as an hourglass, look for styles that highlight your waistline and natural curves.

Flattering picks include wrap dresses that follow your natural shape, belted styles that accentuate the waist and knit dresses made with just the right amount of stretch for comfort. These silhouettes enhance your curves while keeping the look elegant and timeless.

At Lands’ End, you’ll find curve-friendly favorites like sweater dresses, waist-accentuating designs from our Starfish collection and soft knit dresses that move with you. With fabrics designed for comfort and styles that transition seamlessly from day to night, you’ll always feel polished and put together.

Dresses for Triangle-Shaped Bodies

Triangle-shaped figures feature broader shoulders with narrower hips, giving the upper body more emphasis. The trick to soften the shoulders and add balance by creating volume below the waist.

Look for V-necklines that draw the eye inward, A-line dresses that flare out gently and styles with flowy skirts or tiered details that add fullness to the lower half. These cuts help even out proportions while keeping the look feminine and flattering.

Lands’ End offers a variety of triangle-friendly choices, from soft cotton modal dresses with drape to fit-and-flare silhouettes that balance your shape beautifully. Feminine details, like ruching or subtle pleats, add just the right amount of softness while ensuring all-day comfort.

Dresses for Rectangle-Shaped Bodies

Rectangle-shaped bodies tend to have a straight silhouette, with bust, waist and hips that are fairly similar in measurement. The goal in choosing the best dress for your body type with this shape is to create the illusion of curves and add movement.

Flattering styles include peplum dresses that add definition at the waist, ruched designs that create dimension and belted dresses that give the appearance of a more defined shape. Layered looks or dresses with flared skirts can also enhance your silhouette while keeping things comfortable and effortless.

At Lands’ End, you’ll find rectangle-friendly favorites like casual shirt dresses, fit-and-flare styles and sweater dresses that deliver cozy softness with added shape. With thoughtful tailoring and versatile fabrics, these pieces make it easy to dress up or down while always feeling confident.

Plus & Petite Body Types

When it comes to finding the best dress for your body type, size shouldn’t limit your style options. At Lands’ End, the same figure-flattering rules apply across all sizes, with added details to make sure every woman feels confident.

For petite women, the goal is to elongate the frame. Look for dresses with vertical details, higher waistlines and hemlines that hit just above the knee or maxi lengths that don’t overwhelm. Styles like A-line or wrap dresses work beautifully to create length and movement. If you’re searching for the best dress for petite styling, Lands’ End offers petite dresses designed with smaller proportions in our same timeless styles.

For curvy and plus size women, the key is to highlight your favorite features with cuts that fit comfortably and flatter naturally. Dresses with defined waistlines, stretchy knits or strategic draping work wonders. Whether you want the best dress for curvy styling or a go-to casual look, Lands’ End has all your favorites in plus size, including sweater dresses, fit-and-flare silhouettes and travel-ready shirt dresses available in sizes up to 3X.

Universal Tips for Dress Shopping

No matter your body type, a few universal tips can help you choose the best dress for your body type and build a wardrobe you’ll love:

• Prioritize fabric and fit. Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton modal or lightweight knits feel great on your skin and move with you. A tailored fit ensures comfort without being restrictive.
• Think of versatility. Dresses that transition from work to weekend — like a shirt dress or sweater dress — give you more value and wearability. Maxi dresses can double as casual or special occasion pieces depending on how you style them.
• Watch the details. Functional touches such as pockets, adjustable waists and wrinkle-resistant fabrics make outfitting effortless, especially for travel.
• Accessorize smartly. Belts, jewelry and shoes can shift the balance of a dress, helping to highlight your favorite features and create new looks with the same piece.
• Follow seasonal trends your way. Opt for colors, prints or textures that reflect your personality, but stick with silhouettes that flatter your shape, so you always feel confident.

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