Summer Dresses for Every Body Type

Laura Leiva
During warmer weather, wearing summer dresses is not only an ideal way to stay cool and carefree, but they are also easy to throw on for a barbecue, cover-up after the pool or a breezy outfit to wear on a hot day. Since there are so many different body types, finding the best fitting dress may be tricky. Here are the best types of summer dresses for your body type.

Hourglass- This body type is defined as having the same hip and bust width, with a defined waistline. Ideal summer dresses for the hourglass figure accentuate the waist, and don't appear too bulky. Look for dresses that have flowy fabric and defined waistline--either with a waist tie or silhouette. Dresses that have a low or medium neckline will show off the figure without being too revealing.

Rectangle- Girls with little definition in the waist paired with narrow shoulder and hips are typically rectangular-shaped. Wrap dresses are best for this body type, because the dress design accentuates a waistline. Choose an a-line silhouette to add proportion to the hips, and opt for sleeveless dresses to show off the arms.

Oval- Oval body type refers to having a round mid-section, with wide hips, full thighs and an undefined waist. Look for monochromatic colored summer dresses that skim across the waist, and opt for a scoop or v-neck to accentuate the bust. If you prefer to wear skirts, look for styles that are slightly flared at the hem, to balance out body proportions.

Pear- If you have narrow shoulders and bust line but fuller thighs and hips, you may have a pear-shaped body type. To even out your body proportions, choose summer dresses that are either straight down or have an a-line silhouette. Find form fitting dresses, because dresses with too much fabric will become baggy looking.

Inverted Triangle- Girls that have a large bust or broad shoulders with narrow hips have a body type that is defined as an inverted triangle. The best type of summer dresses have flowy fabric, and have an a-line silhouette to balance out shoulder width. Avoid dresses that accentuate the waist, since that will draw extra attention to the shoulder and hip proportions.

Published by Laura Leiva - Featured Contributor in Beauty and Lifestyle

Laura has a bachelor s degree in journalism -- with an emphasis in magazine editing -- and a marketing minor from Metropolitan State University of Denver. Laura is a featured beauty, shopping and fashion, w...  View profile

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