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The Best Spring Dresses for Your Body Shape

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Jordan Randazzo Student Contributor, James Madison University
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Alexa Johnson Student Contributor, James Madison University
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at JMU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Ladies, it is finally that time of year! With the spring weather heating up, it’s time to put away those jeans and whip out those shorts and dresses! Here are a few tips from Her Campus JMU on how to choose the best dress for your body shape.

 
Pear Shape
Do you carry your weight in your hips? This body shape is most common for women. When picking out what to wear, choose a dress that calls attention toward the upper half of your body. Simple things like a belt around your waistline or a skin-bearing neckline will make your body great!
 
Hourglass
If you are well proportioned from your shoulders, chest and hips, and you have a small waist, a square neckline is a great way to accentuate your body shape. With this body shape, showing your shoulders and waistline is very flattering. Look for adjustable-waist styles for the best fit.

 
Petite
If you are petite, you are probably always on the hunt to find an outfit that makes you appear taller. Trust me, I know. Showing leg is important if you wear a mini dress because without a defined body shape you need to compensate with some visible skin in order to look sexy and proportionate. However, try to stay in the mid-thigh area. Another thing to avoid if you are petite is buying a dress that has no shape to it.  Too much fabric can leave you without a waistline!
 
Curvy
Curvy women tend to be busty, so A-line dresses with a moderate V-neck might be your best bet. A wrap dress, with a belt around your waist will help give you a defined figure. Curvy body types look great in dresses that define the waste, which can be created through several methods. Ruching around the waistline can help create the hourglass figure so many women strive for, but also play up your beautiful curves. Even a simple belt in this season’s stylish metallic leathers could turn a simple shift into an elegant ensemble.
 
Now go pick out your favorite dress and strut your stuff around the quad! Be confident and comfortable, and you’ll look amazing!

Alexa is a junior from Cream Ridge, New Jersey.  She is studying Media Arts & Design with a concentration in Corporate Communication and minors in Creative Writing and Anthropology.  She works for the JMU Office of Residence Life as a Program Adviser and as the Graphics Editor for The Breeze.  She loves watching The Bachelor, pinning to her fashion boards and running outside.   Alexa aspires to work in the glamouous fashion magazine industry in New York City or LA.