The “rules” about dressing for your shape used to be rigid and, frankly, a bit joyless. Here's our gentler take: there's no wrong body and no forbidden dress — but certain cuts will make you feel your best, and knowing which ones saves you a lot of time in the changing room. Here's a friendly guide to finding your most flattering summer dress.
First, a word on “shape”
Body-shape categories are a starting point, not a verdict. Most of us are a mix, and the goal is simply to highlight the bits you love. Read the suggestions below as ideas to try, not laws to obey. Everything mentioned lives in the dresses collection.
If you're pear-shaped (hips wider than shoulders)
Draw the eye upward and let the skirt skim rather than cling.
- Best bets: fit-and-flare and A-line midis, wrap dresses, anything with detail at the neckline or shoulder.
- Why: a flared skirt glides over the hips while a defined waist shows off your middle.
- Try with: a statement blouse layered open over a slip for cooler evenings.
If you're apple-shaped (weight around the middle)
Create a vertical line and define the narrowest point.
- Best bets: empire-line dresses (gathered just under the bust), wrap styles, and floaty A-lines.
- Why: the bust-line definition skims the middle and elongates the whole silhouette.
- Avoid fussing with: stiff fabrics that hold a shape — go for fluid, drapey ones instead.
If you're hourglass (balanced shoulders and hips, defined waist)
Show off that waist.
- Best bets: wrap dresses, belted midis, anything tailored through the middle.
- Why: these styles follow your natural curves instead of hiding them.
If you're rectangular (shoulders, waist and hips in a similar line)
Create curves and the illusion of a waist.
- Best bets: ruffles, tiered skirts, belted styles and peplum details.
- Why: volume and definition add shape where you'd like it.
If you're petite
Keep proportions in check so the dress doesn't wear you.
- Best bets: midi lengths that hit at the slimmest part of the calf, vertical details, and monochrome looks.
- Add height: a low wedge sandal lengthens the leg without the discomfort of a heel.
If you're tall
Lucky you — most lengths work. Lean into maxi dresses and bold prints, which you can carry beautifully.
The two universal flatterers
If you take nothing else away: a wrap dress and an A-line midi are the two cuts that suit almost everyone. When in doubt, start there.
Finishing the look
A dress is only half the outfit. Ground it with the right sandal — a flat tan pair for day, a wedge for evening — and see our full what to wear with sandals guide for outfit formulas. Ready to shop? The whole range is in the dresses collection.