Whether you’re looking for a party dress, a prom gown, your wedding dress or something fabulous for a weekend getaway, finding the perfect dress that compliments your figure is like finding gold. If you start your shopping excursion with an informed mind instead of a certain dress in mind, you improve your chances of finding something that will make you the center of attention (even if you shouldn’t be!)

If you need a dress that makes your hips look smaller, you want a dress that draws attention up or stops it at your waist if it’s slender. A fuller skirt will help hide any lumps or extreme curves. A V-neck drops attention, so unless your dress has a feature to stop attention at your waist, opt instead for strapless or a neckline with an eye-catching embellishment. Avoid sheath dresses or those with curves already sewn into the silhouette.

If your cry sounds like this: “I need curves!” You want to look for mermaid style long dresses or sheath styles that accentuate your slim figure. An A-line skirt can help give the illusion of curves at your hips. Halter tops with gathered material help to add volume to the bust area. Skip strapless or halter styles if your arms and collarbones or shoulder are very thin. This will emphasize your lack of curves.

Do you want a dress that gives you a tummy tuck? Look for dresses with an empire waist to help elongate your torso. A corset style bodice will help as long as you don’t spill out the top or bottom of the corset. Any dress that draws attention to your bust line will detract from your waist. Your dress enemies are the princess-cut and the sheath dresses. Also avoid any sashes, belts or horizontal stripes.

If your booty is the problem, you’ll look great in a dress that draws attention to the bust line or to a slender waist. Strapless dresses work for you as long as they have a fuller skirt – which is your key to a sexy dress. Avoid anything with clingy material and A-lines that minimize hips but emphasize bums.

If your goal is to hide arms you feel are too heavy or not toned as you would like, try on dresses that have short sleeves or an off-the-shoulder neckline. Sweetheart necklines will draw attention to your bust and away from your arms. Other great options are dresses with sleeves, even lace or sheer sleeves will remove attention. A wrap or jacket is another good idea for you and allow you to wear strapless or spaghetti strap styles (which are not a great choice for you without a wrap.)

If you are petite and don’t want to look swallowed in a gown, your best choice is a sheath or A-line dress. These accentuate your figure and not your height. Keep your dress simple. Full gowns or frilly skirts become overwhelming and your small frame will be lost in the froof.

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