You know that feeling when you’re standing in front of the mirror thinking, “What kind of dress actually suits me?” Don’t worry – you’re far from the only one. It can feel like a bit of a minefield trying to find the perfect fit. But the good news is, there are a few simple tips that can make it a whole lot easier.

Once you understand your body shape, it becomes much simpler to find cuts and details that flatter your figure – and make you feel amazing. That’s exactly why we’ve created this guide, especially for curvy women who want to feel confident and comfortable in a dress that suits their shape.

Here, we walk you through different body types and dress styles so you can find what works best for you – and highlights everything you love about your figure.

Which Dress Suits Your Shape?

All bodies are unique and beautiful, and the right dress can help your personal style shine through. Below, we’ll take you through different body shapes and suggest dresses that are especially flattering for each.

Just remember: this is only a guide. The most important thing is that you feel great in what you wear.

Apple Shape (Fuller around the middle)

If you carry more fullness around your tummy but have great legs or a fuller bust, focus on dresses that offer movement and comfort while creating balance.

• Empire-line dresses draw attention to your bust and gently skim over your midsection.
• A-line dresses flow outwards without clinging, giving you freedom and shape.
• Kaftans in lightweight fabrics add elegance and ease.
• Tunic dresses with a looser fit give room to move while still offering structure.
• V-necks help elongate your upper body.

Show off your legs with styles that finish above the knee — especially those with slits or asymmetric hems for a modern touch.

Pear-Shaped Figure (Narrow shoulders, wider hips)

If your hips and thighs are wider than your bust and shoulders, focus on creating balance by drawing attention to your upper body, while allowing room for your curves below.

• A-line dresses gently skim over your hips without being tight.
• Wrap dresses and skater dresses define the waist and offer a flattering flare that moves with you.
• For special occasions, go for a dress with detail on top and a simpler skirt – or try a long summer dress with thin straps and a clearly defined waist.

Look for neckline details, shoulder embellishments or frills, as these draw the eye upwards and balance the silhouette.

Hourglass Shape (Defined waist, balanced hips and bust)

If your waist is naturally defined and your bust and hips are in proportion, your shape is all about balance – and dresses that accentuate your curves will look fantastic.

• Wrap and skater dresses are brilliant for highlighting your waist and keeping everything in proportion.
• Sheath dresses are ideal for hourglass shapes – close-fitting and often knee-length, they show off your figure in a chic, sophisticated way.
• Cocktail and evening dresses with a fitted or belted waist bring focus to your curves.
• Shirt dresses with a tie-belt let you personalise the fit and highlight your shape.
• You might also love pencil dresses and other fitted styles, especially those made with stretch for comfort and shape without restriction.

Rectangular Shape (Less defined waist, similar shoulder and hip width)

If you have a straighter silhouette with a less defined waist, it’s about creating curves – either by drawing in the waist or adding volume where it matters.

• Dresses with belts or tie-waists are perfect for defining your shape.
• Smock dresses give a gentle curve at the waist and volume at the hem.
• Strappy or V-neck styles soften the upper body and add femininity.
• Shirt and t-shirt dresses with waist definition create structure while keeping things comfy.

Try layering a fitted dress with a kimono, open shirt or light jacket to add interest and shape. Avoid boxy, shapeless styles that don’t give the figure any structure.

Inverted Triangle Shape (Broad shoulders, narrower hips)

If your shoulders are broader than your hips and you have slimmer legs, aim to balance things out by softening the top half and adding a bit more volume below.

• Balloon dresses are great here – the fuller skirt balances the broader top beautifully.
• Empire cuts soften the bust and add flow below the waist.
• Kaftans and tunics with belts give a looser fit up top and allow for waist definition.
• Choose dresses with details at the hem – think ruffles, layers or asymmetric shapes – to add volume at the bottom.

Keep the neckline simple – V-necks and halternecks help draw the eye inwards and away from the shoulders.

Your Guide to Flattering Cuts and Fits

Now that you’ve got some inspiration for different dress types, here’s a short guide to some of the most common cuts and fits. When you’re familiar with terms like midi dress and regular fit, it’ll be easier to find a style that suits you and your body.

Empire Cut

An empire cut is characterised by a high waist that sits just below the bust, with the fabric falling loosely over the body. It creates an elegant and feminine silhouette and is popular in plus-size fashion as it provides airiness and movement – especially if you want a more subtle focus on your tummy and hips.

Slim Fit

Slim fit means the dress sits close to the body and follows your curves. It gives a figure-hugging look and is often used for more fitted styles like sheath dresses or knitted dresses. Choose this fit if you want to highlight your figure.

Regular Fit

A dress with a regular fit has a standard, comfortable cut – neither tight like a slim fit nor loose like an oversized model. It follows the body's shape without clinging and typically has a little room for movement. For plus-size dresses, regular fit is popular as it ensures a lovely silhouette without feeling too tight or revealing.

Oversized Fit

Oversized literally means “larger than normal”. When used for clothing, it refers to a fit where the garment is intentionally designed to be more spacious than a regular silhouette. This doesn't mean you've simply chosen a size too big – it means the design includes extra width, dropped shoulders, longer sleeves, or a looser overall cut.

13 Popular Dress Types

1. Cocktail Dresses

A cocktail dress is an elegant option, usually knee-length, worn for festive occasions like weddings or parties. It's dressier than your everyday dress but not as formal as a full-length evening gown. Cocktail dresses suit plus-size figures especially well when they include stretch fabrics or flattering details like a wrap design.

2. Sheath Dresses

A sheath dress is a straight, close-fitting design that skims the body without a defined waist. These dresses are perfect for a polished, classic look and are often worn at work or more formal events.

3. Smock Dresses

Smock dresses often feature elasticated or shirred panels across the bust or waist. They offer flexible shaping and a soft, feminine silhouette that adapts to your body without clinging.

4. Kaftan Dresses

Inspired by traditional Middle Eastern garments, kaftan dresses are long, roomy, and typically made from light, breathable fabrics. They’re ideal for warm weather or when you want comfort and relaxed elegance.

5. Balloon Dresses

Balloon dresses feature a voluminous, rounded skirt that tapers in slightly at the hem. The bodice is usually more fitted, creating a flattering contrast and drawing attention to the waist.

6. Tunic Dresses

A tunic dress is a relaxed, easy-to-wear style that falls straight from the shoulders. Often worn mid-thigh or slightly longer, tunics can be styled with leggings or bare legs depending on the season.

7. A-Line Dresses

A-line dresses are fitted at the top and gradually widen towards the hem, forming a shape similar to the letter A. They balance the upper and lower body and are one of the most universally flattering silhouettes.

8. Wrap Dresses

Wrap dresses are tied at the side and often have a V-neckline with a defined waist. They elegantly follow your curves and can be adjusted to fit your shape perfectly.

9. Skater Dresses

Skater dresses have a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares out from the waist, creating a playful, feminine silhouette. They’re particularly flattering for pear and hourglass figures.

10. Empire Dresses

Empire dresses have a high waistline placed just below the bust, allowing the fabric to fall freely over the midsection. They're great for highlighting the bust while offering extra comfort and flow around the tummy and hips.

11. Shirt Dresses

Shirt dresses resemble an oversized button-up shirt. They often include a collar and can be worn loose or belted to add shape. They’re stylish, functional, and ideal for both smart and casual settings.

12. Pencil Dresses

Pencil dresses are fitted from top to bottom and typically end at or just below the knee. They hug your shape and are a confident choice for formal or evening wear.

13. T-Shirt Dresses

T-shirt dresses are casual, laid-back designs that mimic the shape of an oversized T-shirt. They’re comfortable, easy to style, and great for off-duty days.

Dress Lengths – What Suits You?

When choosing a dress, the length plays a key role in how the style looks and feels. Here’s a quick overview:

• Mini – typically ends mid-thigh or just above the knee.
• Short – often used as a synonym for mini, but may also refer to dresses that end around the knee.
• Knee-Length – ends roughly in the middle of the knee.
• Midi – falls from just below the knee to mid-calf.
• Ankle-Length – ends at the ankles but doesn’t touch the floor.
• Maxi – long, flowing dresses that usually reach the floor.
• Asymmetric Length – dresses with different lengths at the front and back, e.g. shorter in front and longer at the back.

The right length depends on your height, your choice of shoes, and how formal or casual the occasion is. If you're petite, midi dresses might appear longer – while a maxi dress paired with heels can elongate your frame. Shorter dresses like mini or knee-length are perfect for warm days or relaxed styles, while midi and maxi styles offer a more elegant, dressed-up feel.

5 General Tips for Finding the Perfect Plus-Size Dress

1. Focus on your upper body Use necklines, details, or colour to draw attention to your face, bust, and shoulders – this creates a flattering balance.
2. Choose cuts that define your narrowest point Empire lines or wrap styles that sit at the waist or just below the bust create a lovely, natural silhouette.
3. Keep the top half clean and simple If you have a fuller bust or broad shoulders, go for sleek designs up top without too much volume or detail.
4. Use colour and detail strategically Prints, colours, or texture placed on areas you want to highlight can guide the eye and create focus. A smock dress with a vibrant skirt and neutral top is a great example.
5. Our size guide helps you choose the best fit by comparing your measurements – so you get the comfort and look you want from the start.

Ready to Find Your Dream Dress?

Whether you’re after an elegant cocktail dress, a laid-back smock, or a form-fitting sheath, there’s a perfect dress out there for your shape. The key is to understand your body – and not be afraid to experiment with different cuts and lengths until you find what makes you feel confident and completely yourself.

Explore Zizzi’s wide range of plus-size dresses. From everyday styles to show-stopping occasionwear, you’ll find dresses made to fit, flatter, and celebrate your curves. Be sure to check out our other guides and blog posts for even more inspiration on styling, shapes, and seasonal favourites.

Your perfect dress is waiting – happy shopping!