Look Fabulous This Year!

If you have been flipping through magazines, browsing the internet and store-surfing for ideas on what to wear for homecoming you may be a little overwhelmed at this point by all of the options out there. No doubt you have stumbled upon one or two dresses that you absolutely love only to realize the model (or mannequin) that you originally saw the dress on is not your size or body type. These moments can be so frustrating but there are ways to assemble an amazing, properly fitting look without the struggle.

The first rule of browsing is to know your body type and to seek advertising outlets that accommodate you. There are actually formalwear websites that cater to specific body types and can assist you in matching dresses appropriately. We are all different and sites such as www.promgirl.com understand this. Prom Girl offers a 'Shop by Body Type' section that allows you to choose dresses according to your figure. Whether you are pear shaped, slender, busty, petite, apple shaped or have an hourglass figure sites like this give you straight options and clear answers without using measurements or weight classes. This is a simple '101' approach to finding a flattering dress.

If you prefer a more hands-on approach then it is best to know what you are working with. There are several types of body frames and some of us may be 'riding the line' between two types. Arming yourself with an understanding of what flatters and what does not can help you create an even look.

What's Your Body Frame?

The most common body frames are A frames, V frames, H frames, 8 frames and oval frames. It is possible to be one frame and also have attributes from another. In this instance it is best to find the frame that best describes your body. You can add a detail from the secondary frame to help balance things out. This is when understanding the cuts, necklines and length (the terminology) of a dress play an important role.

An 'A' frame body type generally describes someone who it bottom heavy. This frame may come with a small bust but not necessarily. A's tends to carry weight in the upper thighs and usually have a normal waist size. A's should focus on creating balance between the hips and shoulders. By finding ways to widen or exaggerate the look of the shoulders you create symmetry with the hips.

A 'V' frame body type includes those whose shoulders are two or more inches wider than the hips. V's generally have a large bust line, narrow hips and thin or slender legs. V's should focus on creating the illusion of wider hips. This can be done with a flared skirt design or by finding a dress with heavier material. V's should be aware that strapless dresses can emphasize broader shoulder.

'H' frames are considered as having an athletic build. H's usually have an average to large waistline with a straight up and down shape; occasionally the shoulders are broader. Most H's have flat bottom. To flatter an 'H' frame focus on the bust line or shoulders. You can add more definition by finding a dress with a draping hipline. As with 'V' frames an 'H' frame body type should also avoid strapless dresses.

The '8' frame type is usually of average height with an average bust line. With 8's the bust and hips are the same size. 8's have a smaller waistline; up to ten inches smaller than both the hips and the bust. If you have a curvaceous 8-frame then put your focus on emphasizing those curves. Find a dress that cinches at the waistline, or just above, to flatter your natural features. If you have a larger 8-frame stick to a simpler dress design that uses a light, flowing material.

Lastly, oval frames are generally average or slightly shorter in height with a larger bust line. Oval's tend to have a rounded waistline with small, slender legs. Oval's want to take the attention away from the waistline. To deter attention from the waist simply focus on A-symmetrical dresses. The easiest way to do this is by finding a nice one-shoulder dress design. Be sure to play with the skirt length; show off those slender legs.

By knowing your proportions and understanding your style options you can make this a homecoming to remember.