15 dresses for every body shape and size

New seasons bring new silhouettes and the whole dress game becomes incredibly interesting, but also incredibly difficult. While the runways may delude you into believing that you must ‘rock that trend’, it’s also important to remember: what doesn’t flatter, doesn’t work.

If you’re struggling with which dress to don this summer, Vogue has a curated guide to ease you into the ones that will suit your body shape most.

Athletic
Slim, statuesque ladies have their advantages. From sheath dresses to shirt dresses, pretty much everything looks good on them. If enhancing your curves is what you’re worried about, fit-and-flare dresses will do the trick. But if you’re looking to switch up boring old summer shapes, go for oversized poncho silhouettes in playful prints for the day and figure-hugging column dresses for the night.

Plus sized
Women on the heavier side are usually hesitant while dabbling in the dress arts. However, let it be known that the right silhouette can actually slim you down and make you look (and feel) amazing. Well-tailored wrap dresses work wonders for your frame. Stick to roomy silhouettes like boxy shifts and A-line dresses for the day. For a night out, try a long-sleeved, off-shoulder gown with a thigh-high slit in a solid colour.

Petite
A small, waif-like frame can tend to look more like a tween’s than a pixie’s. To make sure that your dress game doesn’t tip towards the former, look for dresses that have a flattering length. Asymmetrical dresses with a higher front hem make your legs look longer. Belted dresses are great for a casual day look, while dressy maxi dresses are great for a night out. Layer up with a cropped jacket to create the illusion of longer legs.

Voluptuous
The sky is the limit if you’re blessed with an hourglass figure. Play to your strengths and show off those curves in bodycons and sheath dresses. Experiment with prints and silhouettes like a striped wrap dress for a day at work and a fitted peplum for the night. You may also opt for cut-outs, sheer paneling and plunging necklines.