How to Choose a Sundress That Flatters Your Figure

The sundress is a fun and versatile summer piece. You can play it up with heels and accessories, or keep it simple with flat sandals. Choosing a silhouette that flatters your figure will let you step out with confidence.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Handbags
• Sun Hats
• Sundresses
• Women's Sandals

1. Show off well-toned legs with a side slit or two in a column tank dress. Conceal heavier legs under a long dress with a flowing skirt.

2. Hide heavier hips under an A-line dress, or opt for a knee-length number that has a little flare around the edges.

3. Create the illusion of a larger bust with an empire-waist dress. You can also downplay a small chest by wearing a ruffled or gathered bodice.

4. Play up your well-toned shoulders and upper back with a halter sundress. An open collar or V-neckline will help minimize a well-endowed chest.

5. Choose a slip dress with darts positioned near the waist to give the illusion of curves. This works well for those with a thicker waist or gals with a boyish, not-so-curvy figure.

6. Go strapless or choose delicate spaghetti straps to reveal a long neck and sexy décolletage. Camouflage heavy upper arms by draping them in a delicate chiffon scarf.

7. Consider a minidress if you're petite. The shorter skirt length will create the illusion of longer legs.

Tips & Warnings

• Although summer is the perfect time to experiment with a splash of color, a monochromatic dark dress will slim any figure.
• Silk may be a lightweight fabric, but it's also an insulator. Choose cotton, linen or lightweight synthetics for the hottest summer days.
• Choose the right bra to avoid strap slippage and the bulkiness of seamed or lace-trimmed cups.

[LilHumminbird]

on 7/18/2007 I have a large chest, and I've never found a strapless bra that would stay on or hold me in. My little cheat? I got a halter sundress that has built in padding. The halter itself gives support while the padding keeps me in place. It's great!

on 8/8/2006 Bra straps that show are not cute. Strapless bras come in all sizes, and there are even bras that have plastic clear straps that you can wear if you just have to wear a regular bra.

on 7/21/2006 Take a regular bra and cut the straps where they are sewn onto the back. Tie the straps together behind your neck to form a halter bra. I tried it out and even with an ample chest, it worked perfectly!

*Note: Carefully measure where you want the straps to hit before tying them. Also, you can sew them together instead of knotting for less bulk- either way, be sure it's secure!

on 11/22/2005 Some of the cutest dresses are now equipped with spaghetti straps. Those with a 'no bra required' chest don't have to worry, but what are the rest of us supposed to do? Buy bras in cute pastel shades, and don't be afraid to let the straps show!