Dress Silhouettes Guide: A-Line to Bodycon
Common dress silhouettes are A-line, sheath, fit-and-flare, empire, wrap, and bodycon. Each shapes the body differently. This guide defines every silhouette and shows which suits which figure.
Fitted and structured silhouettes
A sheath skims the body in a straight line. A bodycon hugs every curve. Both suit a defined shape and formal events. Shop bodycon dresses.
Flared and flowing silhouettes
An A-line narrows at the top and widens to the hem. A fit-and-flare nips the waist and flares below. An empire gathers under the bust and falls loose. A wrap ties at the waist and adjusts to your shape. Shop A-line dresses.
Which silhouette suits you
An A-line balances wider hips. A fit-and-flare defines the waist. An empire skims the midsection. A wrap flatters most figures.
Frequently asked questions
What is an A-line dress?
A dress narrowing at the top and widening toward the hem like the letter A.
What is the difference between sheath and bodycon?
A sheath skims the body in a straight cut. A bodycon hugs every curve.
What silhouette flatters most figures?
A wrap and an A-line flatter most figures by defining the waist.
More in the Fashion Education hub. See the Dress Styles hub to shop by silhouette.
Vilmere Editorial Team.
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