Regardless of the occasion, there will come a time when you will want to don a sexy cocktail dress to impress. No matter how stunning or high-end the dress is, the most important thing is that it works with your figure. If it doesn’t, then the dress isn’t worth the material it’s made out of.

Regardless of the occasion, there will come a time when you will want to don a sexy cocktail dress to impress. No matter how stunning or high-end the dress is, the most important thing is that it works with your figure. If it doesn’t, then the dress isn't worth the material it’s made out of.

It is essential to learn how to dress for your figure so that you will look and feel amazing. For this reason, you should always choose an inexpensive dress that fits you well instead of the most expensive dress that just happens to emphasize all of your problematic areas. Therefore, you really do need to know what works best with the type of figure that you have.

The Figure With A Thick Waist

Whenever you have a thick waist you will either want to hide your stomach or add some shape to your waist. This is where two-toned dresses work best. They add more shape and create the illusion that you have a more defined waist. An empire waist also works well to conceal your. A loose fitting mini dress with a pair of heels will also conceal any bulge.

The Pear-Shaped Figure

For pear shaped ladies it’s important to choose a neckline that will you’re your shoulders look broader so that you will look more balanced overall. In order to balance out a bigger set of hips you will want to choose either a cowl-neck, square neckline or deep crew neck. Your other option is to choose a dress with no straps or sleeves and that flares at your hips in order to emphasize your slim top half.

The Plus Sized Figure

It is important to look for bold prints because it will give the illusion of proportions. You should also look for v-necks as they will draw people’s attention upwards. Loose sleeves are also great since they will provide additional coverage and empire waists will create even more shape. Of course, you will need to pick and choose based upon what you want to show off and what you want to camouflage.

The Pencil-Shaped Figure

As a lady with a pencil-shape your goals should be to add more shape and dimension so that you don’t look shapeless or prepubescent. In order to add shape you may want to try a blousy mini dress that will add some fullness to your narrow hips. A tiered dress will also work well since it will add more shape and femininity to your frame. Another option are dresses with banded hems or embellished necklines.

The Apple-Shaped Figure

The empire waist is ideal for apple-shaped figures. These will add some definition to your body by separating the area between your stomach and your chest while emphasizing your ribs, which is a slim area on most women. They will also conceal your stomach. Just make sure that the dress grazes your body and doesn’t make you look pregnant. Of course, you also don’t want a dress to be skintight.

The Hourglass Figure 

You will look great with a v-neck, defined waistline and full skirt. The v-neck should narrow around your bust line and flow outwards around your hips. Another great option is a shoulder-bearing halter dress as it will draw attention away from your hips and make your look more balanced overall.

The Petite Figure

As a petite woman you need a dress that rests several inches above your knees so that you will look leggier. You also want a simple silhouette and a dress that is fitted but not skintight. An asymmetrical hem where the front hits a few inches above your knee also works well. Another idea is to cinch your waist with a belt in order to add more shape and definition to your small frame.