The best dress for your body shape

Whether you're an A, H, O, V or X body type, women who dress for their shape put their best foot forward. Determine your letter to find the right dress for you.

Formerly known as pear-shaped, most women have this body type.

Characteristics: Narrow shoulders and wide hips, the chest is usually flat.

The perfect dress: Empire waist dresses are your friend. Emphasizing your upper body with a plunging neckline and balancing the shape with a flared skirt is another good look.

Say no to: Tight dresses.

Your advantage: You can pull off tops in bold patterns, as well as strapless and bustier dresses.

The "H" body type is also known as the "I"shape (formerly the rectangle).

Characteristics: As the letter suggests, your shoulders, waist and hips are essentially the same width.

The perfect dress: Anything that creates the illusion of a tapered waist, like a sweetheart dress with a belt and flared bottom. A tunic (not too tight) cinched with a belt is also flattering.

Say no to: Vertical lines, bold patterns and pencil skirts.

Your advantage: You can get away with tight fitting tops, including V-necks for fuller busts and boatnecks for more modest chests.

The "O" has replaced the apple shape. Your figure is well-rounded, or oval shaped.

Characteristics: You have a belly but also a nice, round bottom. Your shoulders are also rounded.

The perfect dress: Asymmetrical hems and A-line dresses that draw attention away from the midsection. If you have an ample chest, a square neck top with a three quarter length sleeve looks just great.

Say no to: Belted waists and short sleeves.

Your advantage: No one wears loose, flowing sleeves and sweetheart tops better than you.

This body shape is also known as the inverted pyramid. You have a sporty figure, like a swimmer’s or gymnast’s body.

Characteristics: Your shoulders are broad and square, and your waist and hips are narrow.

The perfect dress: A swing dress or flared skirt balances your figure. Bubble-style dresses with a voluminous skirt create a trapezoid effect and look terrific.

Say no to: Tight-fitted and pencil skirts paired with loose, baggy tops.

Your advantage: You can show off your legs. Shorter hemlines and slit skirts look great on you.

An hourglass or 8-shaped body type is a perfectly proportioned and balanced figure.

Characteristics: Your shoulders and hips are the same width, or are very close. Your waist is well-defined.

The perfect dress: You're the only one who can pull off a tight fitted sheath dress. Sleeved, sleeveless or strapless, they emphasize your tiny waist regardless of the hemline.

Say no to: A dress that's too straight or monotone, and anything with shoulder pads. You can also wear bold and colourful patterns.

Your advantage: With a belt, you can make any dress look chic.