How to style bodycon dresses: Look chic and stylish with a structured blazer, or a belt

Bodycon dresses are having a moment. This style is a bold choice that accentuates your curves and can make you feel confident and stylish. If you love bodycon dresses but are too conscious to wear them, we have you covered. You’d be surprised to know that bodycon dresses can suit almost all body shapes, just choose the right fabric, style and the accessories to go with it.

You can wear them with stilettoes or sneakers, layer them with a structured blazer or denim jacket, and you will find yourself looking fine and feeling gorgeous.

Here’s a guide on how to style a bodycon dress and tips for choosing the right fit for your body shape.

• Choose the right fabric and fit

When choosing a bodycon dress, make sure you choose a fabric that is thick and stretchy and or ribbed. Bodycon dresses hug your body closely, so you want it to highlight your curves without it being too clingy. Go for spandex-blends or ribbed knits that provide structure while maintaining stretch.

Also read | Fashion tips and tricks: How to wear the drop waist, best body shapes for this trend

• Layer with outerwear

Adding outerwear like a blazer, leather jacket, or long cardigan can give your bodycon dress a more refined or edgy look, depending on the occasion. For a formal or professional setting, pair your bodycon dress with a tailored blazer. For a casual or edgy vibe, try a cropped denim or leather jacket.

• Add the right accessories

Keep your keep accessories balanced with bodycon dresses. If the dress is simple, try a statement necklace or bold earrings, while for patterned or detailed dresses, keep accessories minimal to avoid an overly busy look. Use a belt to highlight your waistline.

• Select appropriate footwear

For a formal or night-out look, opt for heels to elongate the legs and complement the sleekness of a bodycon dress. For a more casual outfit, sneakers, ankle boots, or even flat sandals can make the look more relaxed without compromising style.

Also read | Style tips: How to perfect the denim-on-denim look for fall and winter

• Consider shapewear for a smooth silhouette

Bodycon dresses are form-fitting, and if you are conscious about your figure, wearing a bodycon dress with shapewear can make you feel more confident by giving a smooth, seamless appearance.

Choose comfortable, breathable shapewear that smooths without restricting. High-waisted shorts or bodysuits are great options, depending on your dress’s length and cut.

Who can wear bodycon dresses

• Hourglass shape: The bodycon dress is ideal for those with an hourglass-shaped body as it naturally defines your curves. So if you have balanced hips and bust and a well-defined waist, the bodycon dress is perfect for you. You can further emphasize your waist by wearing a belt or choosing a dress with a cinched waistline.

Stick to solid colours or subtle patterns to let the dress focus on your natural curves.

• Pear shape: Pear-shaped figures have narrower shoulders and a wider hip area. Bodycon dresses can accentuate curves beautifully when styled correctly. Choose dresses with embellishments, shoulder details, or off-the-shoulder styles to draw more attention to your upper body. A slight A-line shape at the hemline can create a balanced look.

• Apple shape: Apple-shaped bodies carry more weight around the midsection, so bodycon dresses that emphasize the legs and create a streamlined look. Look for bodycon dresses with ruching or draping around the waist area, which can draw attention away from the midsection. Pairing the dress with a structured blazer or jacket can add shape to the upper body.

• Rectangle shape: Rectangle shapes have a straighter silhouette, with less defined waistlines. Bodycon dresses can create curves and add dimension to the body. Add curves by choosing bodycon dresses with side cutouts or belted waists. Opt for dresses with horizontal patterns, ruching, or colour-blocking to give the illusion of a curvier figure.

• Inverted triangle shape: Inverted triangle shapes have broader shoulders and narrower hips. Bodycon dresses can add proportion to the lower half, balancing the figure. Select dresses with flared or peplum-style skirts to add volume around the hips. Off-the-shoulder or V-neck styles can also help draw attention away from the shoulders and toward the waist.

The bodycon dress can look great on any shape and size. Choose a style that suits your figure and accessorise it with the right additions to feel confident and comfortable.