The Best Dresses for Pear Shape Bodies
Dressing your curves has never looked better.
We’ll be the first to admit that we love wearing dresses because of how easy they are to style. Not only are they easy one-and-done pieces, but once you find the silhouettes that work for you, they’re ultra flattering as well. Calling all our pear body types: every wonder which types of dresses look best on your frame? This guide will break down exactly what types of cuts, styles, details, and colors to look for. Keep scrolling to take a look at our top picks and style suggestions.
The bottom line
First things first, a pear body shape—or as we like to call it, a triangular frame—is typically characterized by your hips and thighs being broader than your shoulders and bust. If you have a triangular shape, you’ll most likely also have a defined waist that is narrow compared to your hips. Because this is the most common figure for women, don’t forget that pear shapes can be tall, short, petite, or plus-sized. If you’re still unsure, we break down the specifics in our body measurements video to help you settle it with measuring tape. Now that you’ve determined what constitutes a pear body shape, here are the three things you’ll want to achieve with your dress options:
1. Create balance
Use your outfit to bring visual balance to your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips to create the look of a proportioned frame.
2. Focus the eye
Highlight your waist and upper body with details that draw the eye up, with belts, bodice detailing, or statement necklines.
3. Elongate your frame
Hemlines that hit around or below the knee work to slenderize your hips which helps you look taller and leaner.
For a complete guide to dressing your body shape and general style tips on how to flatter your frame, check out our post on how to dress a pear shape. We also have advice for other figures, too—check out our guide to dressing for your body shape.
A-Line
We don’t just love A-line dresses for pear shapes—this silhouette is flattering for almost all body types. The name of this style comes from the straight skirt that falls away from the hips, mimicking the shape of the letter A. Look for details that draw attention to your upper body or legs, like soft flutter sleeves, a sweetheart neckline, or a slit.
Fit-and-Flare
Similar to an A-line dress but with a bit more flow, this silhouette is exactly what it sounds like—a fitted bodice with a skirt that flares out. The cinched waist and voluminous bottom is also extremely flattering because it helps create the appearance of a balanced shape no matter what your body type is. Make a subtle statement by choosing a micro-print and with a slim coordinating belt to further accentuate your waist.
Wrap dress
Who doesn’t love a good wrap dress? It contours to the curves of your body while cinching the waist, which has an overall flattering effect on pretty much every body type. The one shown here combines elements of two other recommended styles for pear: A-line and top embellished. You could also try a functional or faux wrap as a mid-length dress or wide-leg jumpsuit.
Top embellished
Direct attention to your top half with a statement sleeve or neckline. This draped one-shoulder jumpsuit is a great example of how an upper detail, combined with a flowy wide-leg that falls away from the hip, creates the appearance of a more balanced frame. Just be sure to keep accessories and shoes minimal, allowing the garment to be the star of the show.
