Prom is fast approaching, and for many, it’s one of the most memorable events of a young girl’s life. From professional photoshoots to hours spent on hair and makeup, showing up and showing out is the ultimate goal. But one of the biggest hurdles? Finding the perfect prom dress. The process can already feel overwhelming—and it gets even trickier if you’re struggling to find a dress that flatters your body type.
Whether you’re petite or plus-size, many stores may not carry styles that cater to your specific shape. On average, retailers tend to stock dresses for broader body types, like pear-shaped or rectangle-shaped figures. And if you don’t know your body type to begin with, shopping can become even more frustrating and confusing.
To save time, you might consider skipping the store lines and taking online quizzes that recommend dresses based on body shape. While this can be a helpful starting point, it’s not always reliable—issues like inaccurate sizing charts, fabric quality, and color variations can leave you disappointed. But don’t stress—there are tips that can help guide you through the process.
“Prom feels like a big deal where everything has to be perfect, and social media only adds to that pressure by constantly showing off extravagant looks,” says John Smith, Vice President of Design at Poshele. That pressure, paired with the cost of prom dresses—which typically range from $300 to $700—can make dress shopping feel like a major challenge.
Smith believes the first step to finding a dress that fits and flatters is understanding your body shape. “Start by measuring your bust, waist, and hips,” he says. “This will help determine your body type.” From there, consider factors like silhouette, neckline, waistline, and fabric type. “It’s always best to try on different styles—even ones you didn’t initially think you’d like,” he adds.
What dress styles work best for different body types? It all depends on your shape and personal style. If you have an hourglass figure, fitted or bodycon dresses can enhance your balanced curves. Add extra flair with wrap or belted styles. For pear-shaped bodies, A-line or fit-and-flare dresses are great options—they balance out wider hips and draw attention to the upper body.
Apple and rectangle body types often have similar measurements in the bust, waist, and hips. “Dresses with cinched waists, peplums, or ruffle details can help create the illusion of curves,” Smith says. Consider trying mermaid gowns with structured tops, ball gowns, or classic A-line silhouettes.
If you have a slimmer frame, you’ve got plenty of stylish options too. Shift dresses, sheath styles with layered designs, and open-back gowns can highlight your natural figure and add visual interest. The little details really do go a long way.
Among all the glitz and glam of prom night, the perfect dress is the one that makes you feel your absolute best. And who knows? Yours just might steal the show.