Whether you like to follow fashion or create your own style, something you must keep in mind while choosing dress styles is your body type. There are many types to choose from but you can be more confident of your choice if you know your body type. Different dress silhouettes accentuate or hide certain parts of your body. So, whatever your body type, make sure to choose a dress silhouette.

Read on to explore what are some of the most popular dress styles to pick.

1. A-line
Celebrated fashion designer Christian Dior first coined the term “A-line” because these dresses usually have a narrower shoulder and become wider at the hem. So, they resemble the letter “A.” Its silhouette is hugely popular because it looks good on pretty much every body type. The lengths of these dresses also can vary from right above the knee to covering the legs.

2. Straight or Shift Column
The bust, waist, hip, and hem have more or less the same measurements in this dress style. So, you can imagine it to look a little like a rectangle. These kinds of dresses are quite popular in hot weather because they are quite boxy and let you breathe freely. This dress style is also suitable for those who want to hide their wide hips.

3. Sheath
If you’re someone with a curvy or an hourglass figure, then this body-fitting silhouette can be most flattering. Sheath dresses are tight, fit your body, and are usually longer than their shorter “pencil” silhouettes. Since they have an elongating effect, they are preferred by petite and lean women. Those with a pear-shaped body might want to avoid this dress style as it can cause disproportionality.

4. Mermaid
Fitted at the top and flared out at the hem, starting from the knees- that’s what the mermaid silhouette is. It is a popular wedding dress silhouette simply for the dramatic effect it creates in the lower half of the body and also due to its ability to enhance the appearance of one’s curves. The extra width at the hem can be the perfect solution for broad shoulders. To help you get in and out, there is usually a zipper that comes along with this silhouette.

5. Empire
Where these dresses differ from A-line dresses is that they tend to flare out right under the bust rather than the waistline. They are super fitted at the bust and tend to be loose, flared, or even flowy at the bottom. Since the dress cinches a little higher than the waist, the one wearing it appears slimmer and taller. It is great for those who want to hide their waists too.