Skip to content

Cart

Your cart is empty

Top Tips for Finding the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type

Prom Dresses Fitted Long Mermaid Glitter Lace Formal Prom Dress  Blush

Finding the best formal dress is the most important part of any formal event. Whether you're attending a wedding, prom, or even just an evening out with friends, wearing the wrong outfit can make a bad impression on everyone in attendance. To get the most out of your dress experience, follow these simple tips on how to choose a formal dress for your body type:

Determine Your Body Type

The first step in finding the best fit for you is to identify your body type. Do you have a long torso? a short one? How about a thick waist or narrow shoulders? These are all factors that can influence how a dress looks on you, and there's nothing wrong with anticipating what might require additional tailoring or alterations after purchase.

If possible, try on different sizes before making a decision; even if it feels weird at first, it's better to find out now than once the dress is delivered! Wear an old dress from your wardrobe and check yourself out in front of the mirror: Are there any areas that seem tight or just not right? If so, try going up or down one size until everything looks smooth, but don't forget about the fitting as well!

Prom Dresses High Low Formal Overskirt Prom Dress Hot Pink

Know what kind of dress flatters your figure

Discover the best formal dress for your body type or the best formal dress for my body type.

Find a dress that flatters your figure.

These two steps are essential when shopping for formal dresses for body types, but they're also the most difficult to accomplish because there are so many options out there, and it's hard to know which ones will work with your body type until you try them on! The key is knowing the best formal dress for body type and what kind of dress flatters your figure based on the shape you want to achieve, like an hourglass or pear shape. Once you've got that down, then it's just a matter of choosing from
among the many possibilities available!

Flaunt your best features

Finding a formal dress that accentuates your best features is key to looking great in your party dress. There are many different body types, but each one has its own unique advantages. Do not try to hide what you have; instead, flaunt it!

If you're pear-shaped and have an hourglass figure with broad shoulders, then a fitted strapless gown with a flared skirt would be ideal for you. If you've got a smaller bust or waistline but larger hips and thighs, then consider choosing an A-line style that hugs your curves without emphasizing them too much—you've got fantastic curves! And for those of us who are curvy all over? We can still rock any style we want—just maybe not as well as our skinny friends, or so says the fashion world. When trying on long
formal dresses
 at home, look at yourself in front of a full-length mirror and see which styles look what type of formal dress suits my body.

Prom Dresses Long Ball Gown Formal Prom Dress Yellow

Take your personal style to the dance floor.

So, how to choose formal dress? When it comes to finding formal gowns, you want to make sure that you find the dress that works for your body type. You also want to make sure that this dress is flattering and comfortable, as well as stylish. Finally, a good formal dress should match your personality and style. Here are some formal dress tips for your body type:

Keep in mind your personal style when looking at dresses. If you like edgy clothing, then traditional styles may not be right for you; likewise, if all you wear is jeans and t-shirts, then a floor-length silk gown might feel very weird on your body. The same goes if all of your clothes are mini dresses or ballgowns—a simple black sheath would probably look out of place in this situation, though if it's what makes you happy, go for it!

Consider how long or short you'd like the hemline of your gown to be. A short hemline will show off more legs than long ones do; long hemlines have more coverage, which can be good if there are any parts of yourself that aren't fondly remembered from puberty days!

Prom Dresses Long Fitted Beaded Formal Prom Dress Black

Consider the neckline

There are many different necklines for formal dresses. The most common ones are:

V-neckline is a popular style that has a V-shaped where the dress dips in the middle to show off your cleavage. This style can make you look younger and more girly, but it can also be revealing if you have larger breasts or if you have an older body type.

Scoop is another popular choice, this style features a small V at the front of the dress, which exposes less of your chest than other styles do (the area between your breasts). However, some scooped dresses expose more cleavage than others due to their higher cut around the collarbone area. If you want something less revealing than a sweetheart neckline but still want to show off some skin on formal occasions, then this may be right for you!

A sweetheart is another popular choice, and it’s one of the most flattering options for women with larger breasts. This cut exposes less cleavage than other styles do, but it still shows some skin around your collarbone area.

Choosing the right formal dress can help you look and feel your best.

Choosing the right formal dresses for women can help you look and feel your best. Whether you are tall, short, curvy, or slender, knowing your body type can help you
find the perfect fit for your figure. It is important to consider different factors when choosing a formal dress that flatters your figure and suits your personality. It's a good idea to do some research before heading to the store so that you know what kinds of styles will work for your body type.

Prom Dresses Long Belt A Line Formal Prom Dress Pink

FAQs

Q1.What is the best formal dress for a pear-shaped body?

A: A-line and ball gown styles work best because they balance proportions and flatter the waist.

Q2.Can petite women wear long formal dresses?

A: Yes, especially empire waist or fitted styles that visually lengthen the body.

Q3.How do I choose the right neckline for my body type?

A: Choose V-neck or sweetheart necklines to enhance the upper body without overwhelming your frame.

Q4.Should I prioritize comfort or style when choosing a formal dress?

A: Both matter. The best formal dress combines comfort, fit, and personal style.

Final thoughts

Finding the perfect formal dress doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your body type, highlighting your best features, and staying true to your personal style, you can confidently choose a gown that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable.

Whether you’re shopping for formal dresses, prom dresses, or evening gowns, The Dress Outlet offers a wide selection designed to flatter every body type and occasion.

Dress styles by body type

Body type

Recommended formal dress styles

Why it works

Pear-shaped

A-line, ball gown

Balances hips and defines waist

Hourglass

Mermaid, fitted gowns

Highlights natural curves

Petite

Empire waist, short formal dresses

Elongates the frame

Curvy

Structured gowns, plus-size formal dresses

Provides support and shape

 

More from Fashion

Style Dispatch: Kylie Jenner Decodes Marty Supreme Method Dressing
formal dress

Style Dispatch: Kylie Jenner Decodes Marty Supreme Method Dressing

The Anatomy Of Retro Glamour Understanding the difference between a modern gala look and a vintage-inspired "method" look helps in making the right shopping decisions. Feature Vintage M...

Read more
The Best Dressed Stars From the 2026 Critics' Choice Awards
cocktail dresses

The Best Dressed Stars From the 2026 Critics' Choice Awards

Iconic Silhouette Comparison Choosing a vintage look is about matching the era to your personal style goals. Use this table to see which historical period aligns with the vibe of your next major ev...

Read more
The Best Vintage Looks From the 2026 Awards Season
formal dress

The Best Vintage Looks From the 2026 Awards Season

Iconic Silhouette Comparison Choosing a vintage look is about matching the era to your personal style goals. Use this table to see which historical period aligns with the vibe of your next major ev...

Read more
Halle Berry’s red carpet legacy in 15 unforgettable fashion moments.
red carpet legacy in 15 unforgettable fashion

Halle Berry’s red carpet legacy in 15 unforgettable fashion moments.

Table Halle Berry red carpet style elements and modern fashion links Style element Iconic moment influence Modern fashion category Sheer detailing Oscar night gown evening dre...

Read more
Carrie Underwood Stuns In Christmas Dress Before 'Sunday Night Football'
formal dress

Carrie Underwood Stuns In Christmas Dress Before 'Sunday Night Football'

Below is a simple breakdown of popular dress categories and where they fit best. Dress category Ideal occasion Why do people choose it cocktail dresses small parties easy to s...

Read more
Iconic Studio 8H Style A Look At The Most Memorable SNL Fashion Moments
two piece set

Iconic Studio 8H Style A Look At The Most Memorable SNL Fashion Moments

A Guide To Matching Your Event To The Best Silhouette Using the style cues from your favorite stars, here is how you can categorize your next shopping trip. Event Type Celebrity-Inspire...

Read more
20+ Sequin Dresses for Every Festive Fête on Your Holiday Calendar
formal dress

20+ Sequin Dresses for Every Festive Fête on Your Holiday Calendar

Quick Guide To Sequin Dress Selection Choosing the right style can be easier if you compare the common features of popular holiday silhouettes. Dress Style Best Feature Recommended Ev...

Read more
Cocktail dress ideas that balance festive and professional
Cocktail dress ideas

Cocktail dress ideas that balance festive and professional

Choosing the right cocktail dress based on event type The type of work event matters when selecting your outfit. Below is a simple guide to help you decide. Cocktail dress style Best su...

Read more
Little black dress ideas that feel just right for a Christmas party
Little black dress ideas

Little black dress ideas that feel just right for a Christmas party

Clear guide to choosing the right little black dress Below is a simple table to help you choose based on party type and comfort Dress length Best suited for Comfort level Short or...

Read more
Avoiding the Prom Disaster with James Charles Approved Secrets
Avoiding Prom Disasters

Avoiding the Prom Disaster with James Charles Approved Secrets

Comparison of Popular Styles and Fits Choosing a style can be overwhelming, so it helps to compare the vibes of different categories before you make a final decision. Style Category Bes...

Read more
Getting the Holiday Glow, Inspired by Laura Rutledge and Festive Fashion Trends
Festive Fashion Trends

Getting the Holiday Glow, Inspired by Laura Rutledge and Festive Fashion Trends

Guide to Selecting the Right Style for Your Occasion To help you navigate your shopping journey, here is a quick reference for matching your event to the right style of dress. Event Type ...

Read more
Dramatic Styles from Shadyside High How Fear Street Prom Queen Sets New Fashion Trends
formal dress

Dramatic Styles from Shadyside High How Fear Street Prom Queen Sets New Fashion Trends

Style Comparison Classic vs. Cinematic Classic Prom Style Fear Street Prom Style (Cinematic) Key Style Keyword Soft pastels or light chiffon Bold jewel tones and black Glitz ...

Read more
Sadie Sink Red Carpet Evolution: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Class
Sadie Sink Red Carpet Evolution

Sadie Sink Red Carpet Evolution: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Class

Comparison of Sadie Sink's Iconic Styles Event Name Dress Type Main Style Feature Venice Film Festival Alexander McQueen Cutouts and heavy structure The Whale Premiere ...

Read more
Hawkins Style Files The Top Fashion Moments from Stranger Things
Hawkins Style

Hawkins Style Files The Top Fashion Moments from Stranger Things

Comparison of Iconic Costumes Character Signature Item Theme Modern Influence Eleven Pink Smocked Dress Youthful Innocence short dresses Nancy Wheeler Pastel Ruffl...

Read more
A New Look for the Classic Black Dress as Lily Collins Reimagines Audrey Hepburn
Classic Black Dress

A New Look for the Classic Black Dress as Lily Collins Reimagines Audrey Hepburn

Style comparison between Audrey and Lily Feature Audrey Hepburn Classic Lily Collins Modern Neckline Style High boat neck or modest scoop Plunging deep V-neck to ribcage D...

Read more
Festive Glamour Reimagined: Amanda Seyfried Sparks Holiday Inspiration in Crimson Monse
Prom Dresses

Festive Glamour Reimagined: Amanda Seyfried Sparks Holiday Inspiration in Crimson Monse

Comparing Festive Silhouettes for the Season Choosing the right attire for a winter event involves understanding how different cuts impact the overall vibe. Style Feature Effect on Mov...

Read more
My Holiday Glamour Strategy 29 Dresses That Will Rock My Entire Party Season
formal dress

My Holiday Glamour Strategy 29 Dresses That Will Rock My Entire Party Season

Holiday Event Dress Code Guide Event Type Ideal Dress Style Key Texture Must-Have Feature Black Tie Gala Long Dresses, Mermaid or Ball Gown Satin or Velvet Sculpted Fitte...

Read more
Dramatic Styles from Shadyside High How Fear Street Prom Queen Sets New Fashion Trends
New Fashion Trends

Dramatic Styles from Shadyside High How Fear Street Prom Queen Sets New Fashion Trends

Style Comparison Classic vs. Cinematic Classic Prom Style Fear Street Prom Style (Cinematic) Key Style Keyword Soft pastels or light chiffon Bold jewel tones and black Glitz ...

Read more
Global Artistry and Local Innovation The Highlights of Hong Kong Fashion Fest 2025

Global Artistry and Local Innovation The Highlights of Hong Kong Fashion Fest 2025

Festival Trend Key Style Element 2026 Prom Application Visual Vibe Global Craft Intricate Beading Evening Gowns with detail Expensive and Luxurious Local Designers ...

Read more
Top Style Picks A Review of the Best Fashion Investments from 2025
formal dress

Top Style Picks A Review of the Best Fashion Investments from 2025

We are also seeing a significant return to the corset bodice. This structural element provides a sculpted and supportive fit that highlights an hourglass figure. It is a detail that works across al...

Read more