Picture this: it’s 2015. Drake’s ‘Hotline Bling’ is playing on *every* radio station, Fifty Shades of Grey makes its box office debut, and tween hearts break as members of One Direction announce their new solo careers.
And, most importantly, 18-year-old me is crying in a changing room. Why? Well, let’s just say those oh-so-trendy cold-shoulder dresses (y’know, the ones that dominated 2010s fast fashion) didn’t suit everyone.
If, like me, you’ve spent endless hours attempting to find that perfect summer dress, you’ll know that changing rooms can slowly begin to resemble the lowest rungs of Hell – just with more mirrors. But worry not, because we’re here with a run-down of comfy, figure-flattering dress options for easy summertime style.
Featuring fit-and-flare wrap dresses and curve-accentuating maxis, we bring you summer dresses for every body type. Whether you’re an apple-shaped beauty or a perfect pear, join us as we delve into dresses that will hug, skim and complement your body in confidence-boosting ways.
For Pears
For pear-shaped lovelies (smaller up top, curvier below), we recommend opting for dresses with form-fitting waists and flowy skirts that will skim over hips. Featuring statement paisley print and a fit that hugs your waist, this mini dress looks super cute with summery sandals.
Part-dressy, part-boho, this festi-ready tiered midi dress comes in a waist-cinching fit that’s perfect for pears. Dress down with strappy sandals or grab knee high boots to add some ‘70s-inspired drama!
For Hourglasses
Hourglass beauties can accentuate their curves and defined waists with form-fitting shapes. First up, the do-it-all Billie midi with its signature slim fit. Cut from a soft-feel ribbed fabric, this versatile racer dress will highlight your curves.
Need something for date night? The curve-hugging Judith dress will transport you from coffee to cocktails with its suit-all neutrals and flattering tie waist. We’d team this bombshell with understated heels (and an Espresso Martini).
For Apples
Straight-cut dresses are the perfect choice for those of us rocking a luscious apple-shaped figure, where hips, shoulders and waistline are similar in width. This celestial-themed dress comes in a figure-skimming fit that’s all kinds of flattering. We predict that you’ll team this glitzy dress with strappy black heels – it’s written in the stars!
Needing a fuss-free essential? We recommend the fan-favourite Dove dress in multicoloured bamboo print. This wear-anywhere maxi features an adjustable belt that adds definition to the waist. For daytime hangs, pair the Dove with comfy flats and, when night falls, opt for heels.
For Rectangles
Disclaimer: we don’t like the word ‘rectangle’ (this shape is also known as the ‘banana’ – no comment). For this slim-hipped body type (sometimes athletic, sometimes broader, always beautiful) we give you waist-hugging fits that complement your figure and create a lil’ curve. First up: the frothy Ashton midi that adds volume through its high-impact ruffles. Perfect for weddings, this abstract-print dress works best with understated nude heels.
Speaking of statement prints, we’re loving the Zeina wrap dress. With its waist-cinching fit, this zesty mini is perfect for rectangle-shaped figures.
For Inverted Triangles
Finally, peruse our ideal options for those blessed with an inverted triangle or ‘strawberry’ figure. Slimmer below and a little broader in the shoulder area, this figure is particularly gorgeous in full skirts. Case in point, this belted shirt dress, a midi that features a pleated skirt that add flattering volume to the hip area.
If you’re searching for something to spice up your eveningwear, look no further than this little black dress with a flattering Bardot neckline. Featuring a light-frilled skirt that will add volume to your hips, this midi will also help to define your waist with its figure-enhancing fit.
