Choosing your prom dress is something that many people anticipate, and the process of finding a flattering gown can be as fun as it is stressful.
A good place to start your search for the perfect prom dress is by searching through dresses based on your body type. This can help you narrow down your style options and select a formal gown that is flattering to your unique figure. Our article gives you more details on body types and the types of prom dresses that may suit you best.
What Is My Body Type?
While all bodies are beautiful, it is important to note that our bodies can be generally categorized into certain 'types.' Each body type can be flattered by a certain style of clothing and prom dress, and you can keep your body type in mind as you start to shop for your gown.
Body types are typically categorized by proportions and the ratio of hips, waist, and bust. Review the body types below to understand which type you most closely match.
- Rectangle - this body type is also called athletic, and the measurements of the bust, waist, and hips are virtually the same
- Curvy - this body type may also be called hourglass, and the measurements of the busy and hips are the same with the waist being smaller than both
- Triangle - this body type may also be called the pear shape, and the measurement of the hips is wider than the shoulders, with the waist being smaller than the hips
- Inverted triangle - the opposite of the triangle body type, this body type features a wider shoulder measurement than hip measurement
- Petite - a petite body type can have any of the above body types, though these individuals typically stand less than 5 foot 3 inches and may need a dress with a shorter skirt
- Tall - a tall body type can also have any of the four common body types, though they will be taller and may need a dress with a longer skirt
Matching Your Prom Dress Style to Your Body Type
After you have taken your measurements and figured out your body type, you can start to navigate the wide world of prom dress styles and match one to your body type. Below, we give you an overview of the prom dress styles that best match each body type.
- Rectangular body types - this body type benefits from one-shoulder gowns to create dimension and gowns that accentuate your waist and hips such as empire-waist dresses and fitted trumpet-style gowns
- Curvy body types - this body type benefits from highlighting the waist area with dresses that are fitted around the waist or have a tighter bodice with either a fitted or flowy skirt
- Triangle body types - this body type benefits from balancing the hip and shoulder ratio by choosing dresses that flow more over the hips and have interesting necklines to bring the eye upward
- Inverted triangle body types - this body type benefits from drawing more attention to the hips, with dresses that define the waist and hug the hips like mermaid-style dresses being the most flattering
- Petite body types - this body type may benefit from a dress with high slits and vertical prints to add height to the figure
- Tall body types - this body type can benefit from floor-length and form-fitting gowns that help to accentuate and embrace the height of the figure
Where Do I Find the Perfect Prom Dress?
Shopping for a prom dress can be overwhelming, as there are many different stores where you may be able to find a suitable gown. Locally, you can try department stores, your local mall, and boutique stores that specialize in prom dresses and formal gowns.
If you are on a budget, you can try your local thrift store, or you may want to shop online for your prom dress so you can filter your searches by price, size, color, and prom dress style.
How Do I Make Sure My Prom Dress Is Flattering?
Choosing a prom dress that is suited to your body type is one of the easiest ways to make sure your prom dress is flattering, though you can also choose a color that complements your skin undertones and hair color.
Additionally, you may want to get your prom dress tailored to your figure, making it more uniquely yours, while adding accessories can be that final touch to a perfect and flattering prom outfit.
The Best Prom Dress for Your Body Type
All bodies are beautiful, regardless of the body type you have or the dress you choose to wear to prom. A prom dress that is carefully selected based on your body type can create a more complementary appearance, but keep in mind that the best dress for you is the one that you feel the most beautiful and confident in.
As you start to shop for prom dresses, take the time to think about your body type and the types of prom dresses you love the most to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect dress.
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