Prom is an exciting time, but it’s even more fun when you’re in a gorgeous gown that makes you feel confident and beautiful. To find the right prom dress, you first have to figure out which body type you have. Knowing this will ensure you select a frock that doesn’t leave you tugging at the seams or fidgeting, so you can have a ball dancing with your friends without a worry in the world.

How to Select a Prom Dress for Your Body Shape

Busty

Women with a busty frame often have larger upper bodies, narrow hips, and undefined waistlines. Longer dresses that cinch at the waist add some curvature to the hips and provide waist definition to draw the eyes down. Combine this with a mesh, V-neckline or halter top to provide support for the curvier bust.   

Apple

If you have an apple body, your bust and torso are of similar size, but you have slim legs and arms. Empire waists, full skirts, and A-line dresses with embellished tops will draw eyes upward and away from the midsection. However, avoid short, tight dresses, as they will do the exact opposite. 

Boxy, Rectangle, or Slender

All of these body types have hip, waist, and bust measurements that are fairly similar. Look for dresses that create the illusion of curves, such as cutouts or belts around the waist. An embellished top combined with a fuller skirt and dresses with ruched or embellished waists can also create the same effect. 

Petite

If you are shorter than 5’3”, look for dresses with minimal fabric and embellishments to avoid being drowned in materials. Shorter dresses or those with asymmetrical hemlines will lengthen your body. Combine a flared skirt with a fitted bodice to show off your curves and maintain an elongated image.

Hourglass

An hourglass figure is one with proportional hips and bust and a well-defined waist. Go for gowns, like the mermaid silhouette, that hug your curves and flare at the bottom. If you’d rather draw attention to your midsection, look for fitted dresses with accented waistlines and strapless or one-shoulder tops.

Pear

When you have a well-defined waist but your hips are larger than your bust, you need gowns that flatter a pear body. Dresses with deep V-necks or sparkling embellishments across the top will draw eyes upward. Combine this with a high-waisted skirt that floats over the hips to create balance.

When you’re on the hunt for the perfect prom dress, visit Memories Bridal & Prom Formal Wear in Middletown, OH. This family-owned and -operated dress shop carries formal wear for all those important occasions, including prom, homecoming, and weddings. They carry evening gowns from leading designers made to flatter all shapes and sizes. Visit their website to view their current collections, and call (513) 727-8770 to schedule a fitting appointment.