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Holiday Dresses For Your Shape and Size
Find the Style That Fits
It’s that time of year again: back-to-back holiday parties and festive occasions – a season of warm gatherings on cold nights to celebrate the holidays and good cheer. This year, don’t make the mistake of picking up a holiday dress you’re not in love with, that you’ll only wear once before banishing it to the back of your closet. Instead, look for dresses that will complement your body type, so you’ll be sure to enjoy them for years to come. Check out our suggestions for holiday dresses that will flatter you no matter your shape or size.
If you’re petite:
Avoid dresses with excessive amounts of fabric, which can overwhelm your figure and weigh you down. Showing a little leg will give you a cleaner, longer line, so look for holiday dresses that end just above the knee. They’re perfect for an evening out, but still an appropriate length for daytime. If you’re looking to define your waist, a belt can do just that, but be careful to find one that’s not too large - otherwise it will dwarf your petite frame.
If you’re pear shaped:
Look for A-line skirts and dresses, which are fitted in the waist but flair out slightly, skimming larger hips and thighs. Wrap dresses are another universally flattering look, since they define your waist and give you a slimmer appearance. Look for holiday dresses in darker colors, which will also camouflage any trouble spots you may have.
If you’re plus-size:
Look for silhouettes that are more fitted on top and flared at the bottom, so they won’t cling to fuller hips and thighs. Dresses that hit at or just above the knee are the most flattering, since they give the appearance of longer, leaner legs. And be sure to choose a holiday dress with an eye-catching neckline – whether it’s v-neck, sweetheart, or even has some embellishments – which will draw attention to your face, and away from any trouble spots.
If you have a boyish figure:
Look for dresses that will define your waist, to help give the appearance of curves. Wrap dresses, which are universally flattering, are great, as are halter dresses. Add a slim belt to a classic sheath dress to accentuate your waist and figure.
If you’re bigger on top:
Be sure to avoid strappy dresses, which will look disproportionally small on your frame and won’t provide the support you need. Look for holiday dresses with v-neck styles, as well as empire seams, which will support your bust line and draw attention up.
