Which dresses are best for apple-shaped bodies?
Choosing outfits that flatter your body shape is the key to looking and feeling your best. A fairly common body silhouette is the apple or the circular or round shape. Apple shapes tend to carry their weight around their midsection, with a big bust and broad shoulders, but their arms and legs tend to be slimmer.
If you identify yourself as an apple shape, we’ve got the best information on how you can identify the best apple body shape dresses, as well as a roundup of our favorites, including popular ones like Alex Evenings Compression Embellished Ruched Sheath Dress.
What to know before you buy dresses for apple-shaped bodies
Measurements and shape tendencies
Apple shapes are often confused with other body types such as hourglass and pear. To confirm if you fit the description, grab a measuring tape and check your measurements. Look out for typical dimensions of an apple body shape. Remember that body frame determines your bone structure and less on your size and weight. While the apple shape is commonly associated with the curvy type, a petite or slim person can still fit the description. You may also have a secondary body shape if you lean toward other types such as pear, hourglass, inverted triangle and rectangle.
Basics for dressing your body type
Knowing the universal rules for dressing a specific body type will make it easier to find the dresses that best suit you. Regardless of what size or shape you are, the end goal is to create a proportioned frame that is aesthetically pleasing and makes you feel confident.
- Draw the eye to the right places: Use the lines of an outfit to direct the eye to where you want it to go. This will emphasize certain body parts, lengthen and create curves.
- Create balance: Use the fit and proportion of an outfit to balance the different parts of your body, such as your hips, waist, bust and shoulders.
- Use color the right way: The human eye is drawn to fabrics with light and bright colors, more so than ones that are solid navy and black.
For apple shapes specifically, you want to look for outfits that add length and elongate your frame. They should also have some structure to create a more contoured look.
Strengths of the apple body shape
Every shape has pros and cons, and the most confident dresses know how to make the most of what they’ve got. Acknowledging your flattering parts will motivate you to choose dresses that highlight your features that you’re proud of and that you would like to show off.
Best style of dresses for apple-shaped bodies
The apple body shape appears top-heavy due to a full chest and upper body and an undefined waist. The best dresses are those that balance out the proportions of your silhouette by adding curves and that emphasize your lower body, shoulders and legs, while creating a more defined waistline. The right dresses will skim over your body without clinging. These styles of dresses are the most flattering for women with apple-shaped bodies.
Wrap dress
The wrap dress has maintained an iconic status for many decades now because it looks good on everyone who wears it, no matter their body type. It’s also a versatile garment that anyone can wear for any occasion or setting. Those who have an apple shape will love the design of this dress because of the defining tie that cinches the waist and the V-neck that elongates the upper body.
Tailored shift dress
The tailored shift dress has a loose fit and is relatively straight, which works well for an apple-shaped body type frame. Thanks to its clean and simple lines and flattering cut, the dress subtly accentuates the midsection, providing comfort and definition.
Empire waist
The sweetheart neckline on the empire waist style of an empire waist dress plays up the bust and neckline, which lengthens the upper body. The raised waistline fitted just below the bust flares creating a silhouette that floats away from the hips and waist. This gives the appearance of a longer torso, offering a balanced look for apple-shaped bodies.
Midis and maxis
An effective way to flatter a rounder shape is by using vertical lines. You can achieve this by wearing longer, loosefitting dresses like midis and maxis. Regardless of your height, the dress length is an essential consideration for this style. Look for midi’s that reach around mid to lower calf and maxi’s that touch the top of your feet.
How much you can expect to spend on dresses for apple-shaped bodies
Whether you’re apple-shaped or another body type, the amount you spend on dresses ultimately depends on the quality of the material you desire. Expect to spend more on designer clothes made with premium materials and lesser on budget brands that focus more on affordability versus garment quality. Expensive dresses like the wrap dresses popularized by iconic fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg cost around $1,000 and above. If you find this price tag too steep, you can find plenty of wallet-friendly alternatives that provide a flattering look. There are midrange dresses that run from $50-$500 and inexpensive ones that range from $15-$40.
4 ways to accessorize dresses for apple-shaped bodies
Wearing the right accessories will instantly elevate your look and add more balance to your proportions. Wear one of these four statement pieces to add extra dazzle to your dress.
- Statement earrings: Large earrings with intricate designs are perfect for drawing focus to your neckline.
- Belts: Wearing a belt that cinches your waist adds definition and shapes your silhouette.
- Nude shoes: These neutral-colored shoes will look good with almost any dress, with the added benefit of elongating your legs.
- Pointy-toe shoes: You can wear either flat or heeled shoes in this style to create a long leg line.
Best dresses for apple-shaped bodies FAQ
What are the most flattering necklines for the apple body shape?
A. The ideal necklines for the apple body shape are the ones that take attention away from the fuller midsection and that break up the chest vertically, such as the V-neckline. A wide neckline can make the shoulder appear wider. Look for necklines with embellishments and details on or around them to keep the eye focused on the upper half of the body and away from the torso. Avoid narrow and high necklines that narrow your chest and hide your chest.
What are the best types of sleeves for the apple body shape?
A. Choose outfits that have sleeves that accentuate your arms and upper body. These styles take the focus away from a wider midriff. Sleeves that have details such as gathers, cuffs, slits and draped fabrics can create this effect. Other options are flared and loose sleeves that create volume on the upper body. You can also highlight your shoulders with shoulder pads and cap sleeves.
How can I prevent dresses from clinging to my middle?
A. It all comes down to the shape and style of dress that you pick. Select dresses, such as sheath and shift dresses, that hang straight off your shoulders and don’t hug too tightly. If you prefer a more fitted look, you can go for wrap and fit-and-flare dresses that hug your waist and flow out around your legs.
What are the best dresses for apple-shaped bodies?
Top dress for apple-shaped bodies
Alex Evenings Compression Embellished Ruched Sheath Dress
What you need to know: This cocktail dress has a ruched asymmetrical waist that creates an hourglass shape.
What you’ll love: The wrap style V-neck is elegant and highlights the collar bone. The side embellishment adds a touch of glamour to the outfit. The dress has a flattering cut that fits the body well.
What you should consider: Some buyers said that the dress was cut small. You must consider the embellishment of the dress when accessorizing.
Top dress for apple-shaped bodies for the money
Amazon Essentials Women’s Cap-Sleeve Faux-Wrap Dress
What you need to know: This affordable dress has a wrap design and A-line skirt that balances body proportions.
What you’ll love: The dress has a soft and stretchy blend of elastane and viscose. The skirt gently drapes over the hips providing a comfortable fit. While the tie closure is visible, it doesn’t add bulk to the waist.
What you should consider: The V-neck line is slightly low cut. The dress isn’t available in lighter, solid colors.
Worth checking out
Calvin Klein Women’s Scuba Crepe Peplum Dress
What you need to know: This well-made, contemporary peplum dress can give you a sophisticated look.
What you’ll love: The three-quarter sleeves and boat neckline add a touch of elegance. The peplum cut will flatter your waistline, and the skirt is stretchy and comfortable.
What you should consider: This dress isn’t lined.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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