- There are a number of different types of dresses available, so it's easy to find the right dress for your body type and any occasion. Empire waisted dresses have a high waistline, typically with a scoop, round or V-neck. These dresses are flattering for many body types, assuming they fit well and can be worn short or long. Maxi dresses are long, ankle-length dresses ideal for comfortable casual wear. Classic shift and sheath dresses can work for the office, evening or weekend. Choose a dress that skims the body and a neckline that suits your shoulders and bust. Dresses that nip in at the waist, including full skirted '50s styles and wrap dresses work very well for curvier women. Fabrics, colors and how you wear the dress can make a modern dress look like a retro dress or vice versa.
- The versatile little black dress is typically a sheath or shift dress. The neckline should suit your body. A wider or lower neckline is best for a heavier bust, but should still be appropriately modest for office and day wear. Wool crepe or jersey are good choices for a fall and winter shift dress. Pair your dress with strappy heels and glittery jewelry for evening or flats and a cardigan for a casual luncheon. You can also opt to buy your little black dress in another versatile neutral color if you prefer.
- Go retro for a playful look that can suit your body type and work for day or evening. If you have a more rectangle or an apple shape than an hourglass, a 1920s style flapper dress or 1960s shift or trapeze dress can be a flattering choice. The fitted dresses of the 1940s suit many body types, with sweet details drawing attention to the face and seaming creating curves. Hourglass figures will find that the retro dresses of the 1950s, whether they have a full skirt or a fitted one are especially flattering. Add period shoes and hair to make your dress stand out.
- Dresses can work just as well for a casual lifestyle as they can in the office. Wear a simple dress with leggings or over jeans for a look that is cute and practical. This is also a great way to wear a shorter dress without showing so much leg. Boots, heavy tights, tall socks and leggings can all be used to make your dresses winter appropriate. Bicycle shorts, capri length leggings or an old-fashioned split slip or "pettishorts" can make your dresses practical for a busy and active lifestyle.
- Think outside the box to make the most of your dresses. Top a dress with a pullover to wear it as a skirt or put a fitted blouse underneath to use it as a jumper. Add a coordinated cardigan to a simple shift dress for a Jackie O look with a crisp matching bag. Choose solid colored dresses in fabrics that will work most of the year for the best wearability. Heavy wools and sweater knits as well as very light cottons and chiffons are less wearable than light weight, good quality crepes and jerseys.
