The Basic Body Shapes for Women and the Best Dresses for Them

As the party invitations and other events start to come in (and throughout the year), the age-old question of "what do I wear?" arises.
Knowing your body type can make it a lot easier to find clothes that fit and flatter you.
Most women's shapes fall into one of the following classic body types:

Rectangle

This body type has undefined waists, with similar bust, waist and hip measurements.
Dresses that give an illusion of an indented waist or flow past it altogether are what you should aim for.
You'll look great in: Coat dresses with neckline that'll draw attention to your face, drop-waist styles and flared or straight-cut sheaths to give a long, lean appearance.

Apple

Apples are round all over, with a full back, waist and upper back.
Your best styles are the ones that de-emphasizes the fullness of the upper body and focus attention on face, hips and thighs.
Your best looks are: Wedge-shaped dresses with a narrow hem. Tunic-type dresses and soft fabric sheaths are also good choices.

Pear

The hips and thighs are usually wider than the shoulders and bust.
Dresses that focus attention above the waist are your best look. Go for darker colors and dresses with softly pleated skirts to play down the hips, thighs and butt.
A-line and trapeze sheaths will flatter you because their flared hemlines help hide trouble spots without adding bulk.

Hourglass

These figures are curvy all over, with hips and shoulders the same width.
You'll look best in styles that call attention to your well-defined waist. Soft, flowing fabrics and sophisticated lines will also work for you.
You'll look fantastic in belted shirtdresses; they'll showcase your waist! Also consider straight-cut sheaths with princess seaming.

For Any of the Body Shapes

Have you noticed that sheaths were previously mentioned for each of the four main body types?
Any figure or body type (from Michelle Obama to Reese Witherspoon) can wear them, for they are universally flattering. The key factor here is on the particular design.
Now if you combine that with the color black or the "new black" colors of navy, chocolate brown or dark gray-to look 10 pounds thinner-you'll be unbeatable!