Which dress types suit apple shapes?

If you don’t have much definition at your waist, have an average to sizeable bust and are generally fuller-figured around your midsection you probably have an apple body shape. The most flattering dresses for you will create the illusion of a smaller waist and ensure that all the attention is either on your slender legs or décolletage.

This Wired article reports that technology could be set to transform the way we all shop for clothes but for now, here are five of the best dress styles to complement your apple figure.

Swing and wrap dresses for an apple shape

Swing Dresses

The free and loose style of swing dresses will skim your midsection and flare at the hem, which will direct the attention towards your legs. Ideal for everything from casual afternoons to evening dinner dates, no wardrobe is complete without a swing dress or two.

Wrap Dresses

A flattering cut for all body shapes, wrap dresses will always hug your body in all the right places. Sleeveless styles will emphasise your slender arms, and a side split will create a bit of added drama and allow you to show off your legs. For maxi styles suitable for all occasions, view our maxi dresses collection at AX Paris.

Full skirts and empire line styles

Full Skirts

Dresses with flared or full skirts will always allow you to showcase your legs and make your shoulders appear slimmer by creating the appearance of an hourglass silhouette.

Empire Line and Skater Dresses

This classic cut will create the illusion of a nipped in waist and help to give you a more hourglass-shaped silhouette. Skater dresses will emphasise the smallest part of your body, and direct attention away from your shoulders and midsection. If you want to add some chic maxi dresses to your wardrobe, look for empire line cuts and styles that keep bold patterns and details on the fabric below the hips.

Tunics and shift dresses

Tunics and Shift Dresses

For both comfort and style tunics and shift styles are the perfect choice. Choose a tunic in a light and breathable material for casual occasions and wear with cropped leggings, a cross body bag and a statement necklace. For dressier occasions, a shift dress in a slightly more substantial material will give your ensemble structure, without clinging uncomfortably around your midsection. Style with heels and an elegant clutch to complete a chic evening outfit appropriate for a variety of occasions.

Summary

This article recommends dress styles for an apple body shape, where there is little waist definition and fuller midsection. It suggests swing dresses that skim the midsection, wrap dresses that flatter most shapes, full or flared skirts that create an hourglass illusion, empire line and skater dresses that nip in the waist, and tunics or shift dresses for comfort with structure.

Questions this article raises

• Which fabrics work best for these dress styles in warmer weather?
• How does accessorising change for an apple shape compared with other body types?
• Are these dress styles still considered flattering by current fashion trends?