Thick Waist
Do: Empire waist, A-line, tiered skirts; Necklines - Any pretty, or decorative neckline will focus eyes away from the waist.
Don't: Princess line, basque1 waist or dropped waist; Necklines - Avoid plain necklines such as bateau2 or unadorned short scoops.
Broad Shoulder / Big Busted
Do: Ball gown or A-line; Necklines - V-neck or plunging neckline.
Don't: Empire waist; Necklines - strapless or spaghetti straps.
Full Figured (Round)
Do: Ball gown or A-line; Necklines - V-neck or plunging neckline.
Don't: Empire waist or sheath; Necklines - strapless or spaghetti straps.
Hourglass
Do: A-line or drop waist full; Necklines - sweetheart or V-neck.
Don't: Empire or ball gown.
Bottom Heavy (Pear Shaped)
Do: A-line, basque1 waist or ball gown; Necklines - strapless, soft round or scooped.
Don't: Sheath; Necklines - V-neck.
Short Waist
Do: Princess or A-line; Necklines - Portrait or Halter.
Don't: Sheath.
1A basque waist is a style of waistline found on women's formal dresses, including wedding gowns. This typically begins just below or at the wearer's actual waist, and then the center plunges downward to form a 'V' or 'U' shape. These shapes tend to accentuate the hips. The basque waist is also known as the dropped V waist.
2A bateau neck is a straight neckline that stretches across the collarbone to each shoulder. This neckline is also called a boatneck, as bateau is the French word for boat. The name refers to what is thought to be the origin of the bateau neck — the striped French sailor shirt. This thick cotton t-shirt style with thin stripes of navy and cream or white is what many people think of when picturing the look of a bateau neckline or boat neck.