Finding "the one" can be a challenge — and by "the one" we mean the perfect dress to wear as a guest at a wedding. An easy way to start the search is to shop by your body type [1]. Determine what you want to show off — Your back? Your arms? — then look for dresses to achieve that. Of course, there's the occasion and weather [2] to consider, but when you find a gown that really fits your silhouette, you'll make it work. We've broken down some style tips to help you on your journey, and perhaps you'll find your dream dress in the options ahead.
- Petite [3]
- Tall and lean [4]
- Small bust [5]
- Large bust [6]
- Tummy concealing [7]
- Broad shoulders [8]
Black Halo Brooklyn Mini Dress
For petite ladies looking for a dress with ruffle sleeves, we suggest this option from Black Halo [9] ($345).
Fame and Partners Cameron Dress
One of our petite editors [10] swears by Fame and Partners, and we can see why. You can customize clothes from this brand by colour, length, and style, which means you'll definitely find the perfect dress for your size.
Fame and Partners Cameron Dress [11] ($199)
Tall and Lean
Consider your taller-than-average height a gift. You can rock maxi dresses with or without heels (lucky!), and your long frame will handle draping well. Create the illusion of curves, if you don't have any, with ruffles and sashes, and embrace the sheer dress.
ASOS's Tall Lace Cami Midi Prom Dress [12] ($119) shows off those long legs.
Dress the Population Michelle Sequin Gown
For fancy receptions, this metallic Dress the Population [13] ($320) gown will look absolutely divine at night.
Rosetta Getty One-Shoulder Gingham Cotton Wrap Gown
Cinch your waist with the built-in sash on this Rosetta Getty gingham dress [14] ($500).
Asos Tiered Bow Back Maxi Dress
Tiered dresses look amazing when you have the height to pull them off, and we personally love this Asos Tiered Bow Back Maxi Dress [15] ($92).
Small Bust
Don't fret over your small chest! It's actually a blessing because you can wear any type of dress (like plunging necklines) without worrying about spilling over. You can also try a bustier-style bodice to prop up your girls, or look for ruffles and other embellishments around the chest area to distract everyone from focusing on your boobs — they'll be too busy complementing the details.
This ASTR the Label Lace Off the Shoulder Midi Dress [16] ($89) has strategically placed ruffles across the chest area.
Large Bust
The best way to draw attention away from your chest is by drawing it to your face or other parts of your body. To do this, find dresses that highlight the areas you love, whether that be your arms or back. And when in doubt, go with an LBD. Despite what you may think, dressing a big bust isn't hard [17] when you have all the right style tips.
Maggy London's black dress [18] ($148) features a sheer mesh material, which is sexy but still modest.
Marchesa Ombre Cocktail Dress with Floral Embroidery
The Marchesa Ombre Cocktail Dress with Floral Embroidery [19] ($695) features a sheer neckline and embellished florals to conceal your chest.
Tummy Concealing
If you're worried about your midsection, you'll want to invest in a wrap dress. The gathered fabric will hide bulges, and your dress's built-in sash will create definition in the waist. Avoid satin slip dresses or anything that hugs your abdomen too tightly.
The intricate folds in this 4OUR Dreamers Talulah Linen Wrap Dress [20] ($138) are a creative solution to tummy control.
Mumu Audrey Maxi Dress
You'll feel like a garden fairy in this floral maxi dress [21] ($198).
Asos Design Curve Ruffle Sleeve Maxi Dress
Give everyone the cold shoulder in this Asos Design Curve Ruffle Sleeve Maxi Dress [22] ($108).
Express Neon Floral Print Ruffle Dress
You'll definitely be best dressed in this Express Neon Floral Print Ruffle Dress [23] ($40) with an asymmetric sleeve cutout.