Cleo has an amazing selection of women’s dresses. We pride ourselves on providing you with on-trend choices that are flattering. When dress shopping, it can be hard to know where to start. We all want to look our best and feel good, right? But how do you figure out what best complements you?
Here’s a few tips to consider when shopping:
I'M CURVY
Are you curvy top and bottom? Accentuate your shape by looking for styles that have a defined waistline at or near the natural waist. Keep it balanced with open necklines and try a belt to highlight your shape. This applies regardless of what length of dress you prefer.
I'M HIPPY
Are your hips wider than your top? Balance your figure by drawing attention to your upper half. Look for dresses that have open necklines, such as V-shaped necklines, which are especially helpful. Dresses with details on the upper half like buttons also help balance. Feel most comfortable in dresses that have stretch or room in the skirt, like A-line silhouettes.
I'M BUSTY
Are you a full-bossom gal? Balance your figure by adding volume to your lower half. Look for dresses with volume in the skirt to balance. Think peasant styles or skirts with details, like ruffles. Dresses or jumpsuits that are solid on the top and printed on the bottom are another helpful way to balance.
I'M LACKING CURVES
Do you feel a bit straight in shape from top to bottom? Add the illusion of curve by looking for a dress that has a defined waistline or a belt. This will create shape. Alternatively, try styles that have a bit of volume in the skirt and interest in the top, like buttons or ruffles. A colourful print is also a good option!
I'M SHORT
Are you vertically challenged? Short, petite, long waisted?
First off, ignore the old myths. You can wear any length of dress, any style of dress. It all comes down to fit, proportion and where it sits. If you are short, you can wear maxi dresses. The key is to find the right proportion and silhouette based on your shape and where you want the dress to hit.
For example, if you want a maxi that hits the floor, go with a slimmed down version without too much fuss, this won’t overpower your frame.
If you want an ankle maxi, try a dress with some tiers or volume. When choosing a length that shows your feet, you look taller and that gives you more volume to play with.
If you are petite and want to try a more voluminous dress, you can!
Try a style with controlled volume, like a peasant style that is fitted up top and through the waist. Make sure it has an open or V shaped neckline; this will always elongate your appearance.
If you want to try a looser fit, go for a shorter length (above the knee) so you see more leg, which won’t overpower your frame.
Ditch the old rules. Try something new. You can wear anything you want! Not sure where to start? Come into your favourite cleo store and speak with one of our style advisors. We would love to help you find what is best for you!
Bottom line, when shopping for dresses, try, try, and try. What’s most important is that you feel great.
Whatever your shape, style or preference, confidence is always the best fit.
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