LBD: Read on to find the best classic and modern little black dresses for you!
Also see: Fashion Q & A: What are Fall's Coolest Colour Combos?
Pear Shape: Classic LBD
Your Figure: Slim neck and arms with narrow shoulders; rounded hips and legs that are wider than your upper half.
Look For: Dresses that help balance proportions by bringing some focus to your top half.
The Dress: By jutting out slightly, these peaked sleeves emphasize width across the shoulders to even out the appearance of hips and thighs. Secure the effect by adding a statement necklace.
Try: Malene Birger ‘Astria’ dress, $425, www.eluxe.ca
Also see: Smashing Sweaters for Fall: Splurge Vs. Save
Pear Shape: Surprise Stunner
The Dress: Since white attracts and black detracts this little number boasts a figure-flattering combination specifically for your shape. The light-coloured lace bodice draws attention up where you want while the solid black skirt quietly slims hips and thighs.
Try: Jacob Laced Bodice dress, $129, www.jacob.ca
Also see: Fall Shoes 2012: Splurge Vs. Save
Plus-Size: Classic LBD
Your Figure: Curvy with a voluptuous bust and hips.
Look For: Dresses that accentuate your waist and glide over curves.
The Dress: The wrap dress is a classic choice if you’ve got a curvy figure. Here, you’ve got the basic elements: elongating deep V-neckline, asymmetrical wrap detail that accentuates the waist and a skirt falls gently over the bottom half of the body. Plus you’ve got a bonus: a fun polka dot print that gives basic black a fresh-looking boost.
Try: Penningtons All Over Dot dress, $60, www.1-plus.com
Also see: Fall's Most Unexpected Style Combos (That Actually Work!)
Plus-Size: Surprise Stunner
The Dress: Who says your LBD can’t have a healthy splash of white? When it features a chic bold print and body-slimming panels it’s totally worth bending the rules for. Hello, instant hourglass!
Try: Laura Plus Wave Stripe Sheath dress, $195, www.laura.ca
Also see: Canadian Fashion Bloggers We Love
Athletic/ Straight Shape: Classic LBD
Your Figure: Slim and straight up and down with few curves.
Look For: When looking for a dress that can create the illusion of curves, a little volume and defined proportions are essential.
The Dress: With a gently draped top half, distinct band at the waistline and an A-line skirt, this kick pleat dress uses simple lines to form a softer shape.
Try: Theyskens' Theory pleated dress, $504, www.shopbop.com
Athletic/ Straight Shape: Surprise Stunner
The Dress: The 20s-era drop waist dresses that were a huge designer trend (and will be all over the big screen in The Great Gatsby) are tailor made for your slim frame. Pair one with textured hosiery, heels and minimalist jewelry (no pearls, please) for a modern twist.
Try: Moon drop waist dress, $79, www.moonapparel.ca
Apple Shape: Classic LBD
Your Figure: Slim legs and hips with a curvy bust and tummy.
Look For: Dresses that help define your waist.
The Dress: If you’re trying to tame a tummy, the different parts of a fit and flare dress add up to a smart choice. The tailored top portion will accent your rib cage (typically the smallest part of a woman’s frame), while the skirt (that flares out from the belly button) lends the illusion of curves to your lower half.
Try: Smart Set Belted dress, $55, www.smartset.ca
Apple Shape: Surprise Stunner
The Dress: Utilize the power of vertical lines to draw the eye up and down, rather than across your middle. The intricate cutouts on this body-skimming sheath form a large ‘stripe’ that elongates from neckline to hem.
Try: Carlotta Ponte Dress, $258 USD, www.anthropologie.com
Hourglass: Classic LBD
Your Figure: A narrow waist with a wider chest and hips.
Look For: Dresses that draw attention to your waist.
The Dress: Look for dresses that feature oversized detailing around the waist. Your figure can work any sort of embellishment, whether it’s plenty of pretty pleats, a garden of floral embroidery or a handful of rocker chic studs, like on this sleeveless sheath. Whatever you choose, don’t shy away from a larger than life scale.
Try: Topshop Stud Sleeveless Bodycon dress, $88, www.thebay.com
Hourglass: Surprise Stunner
The Dress: Check out dresses that boast back revealing details. A keyhole closure can be just as sexy as a plunging neckline – especially when glittering sequins is part of the package.
Try: Rachel Zoe ‘Selita’ dress, $479, www.shopbop.com
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