We've all been there: we fall in love with a gorgeous dress in a photo, we receive it, we try it on... and then, disappointment. It's not the same. The good news? It's not your body that's the problem, it's the cut of the garment!
At La Boutique de Lydie , I firmly believe there's no such thing as a "bad" body shape. There are only clothes that know (or don't know) how to highlight your best features. Today, we're going over everything together so you'll never again ask yourself, "Will this suit me?"
1. What is your letter? (A, V, H or 8)
You don't need to be a fashion expert, just look at yourself in a mirror.
⏳ Figure-8 Body Shape (The Hourglass)
This is you if: Your shoulders and hips are aligned and your waist is very defined. This is the most balanced silhouette.
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Your goal: Everything suits you! But the aim is to highlight this slim waist without hiding it.
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The perfect dress: Wrap dresses are your best friends. Sheath or fitted dresses that follow your curves will also look stunning.
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To avoid: Cuts that are too wide or "oversized" that hide your shape.
🔺 A-shaped body type (The Pyramid)
This is you if: Your hips are wider than your shoulders (this is the most common silhouette among French women!).
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Your goal: To draw attention to the upper body and blur the lower body.
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The ideal dress: A skater dress or an empire waist dress (fitted under the bust and then flared out). Opt for boat necklines or details on the shoulders (ruffles, shoulder pads) to balance the silhouette.
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To avoid: Dresses that are tight around the hips or horizontal stripes on the bottom.
🔻 V-shaped body type (The Inverted Pyramid)
This is you if: Your shoulders are wider than your hips (often an athletic build).
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Your goal: To soften the shoulders and add volume to the hips.
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The ideal dress: Dresses with embellishments on the hem (pleats, ruffles, pockets). A deep V-neck is magical for visually narrowing the shoulders. Straight cuts also work very well.
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To avoid: Tight-fitting turtlenecks or shoulder pads that accentuate the shoulders.
⬜ H-shaped body type (The Rectangle)
This is you if: Your shoulders and hips are aligned, but your waist is not very defined.
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Your goal: To create the illusion of a smaller size or to play on the chic androgynous style.
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The ideal dress : Straight and flowing cuts look very elegant on you. If you want a fitted dress, choose one with a belt worn loosely on the hips (low waist) or an "Empire" style dress.
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To avoid: Dresses that are too tight at the waist, which only accentuate its absence.
2. Small or Large: Tips for Cheating a Little
Body shape is important, but height matters too!
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If you are petite (less than 1.60m): Your mission is to lengthen the silhouette.
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The trick: Show off your legs! Short dresses (above the knee) are ideal.
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The secret: Wear shoes of the same color as your tights (or "nude" color if bare legs) to visually gain a few centimeters.
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Avoid: Midi dresses that cut off the calf.
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If you are tall (over 1.75m): You are lucky, you wear volume wonderfully.
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The trick: Dare to wear long dresses (maxi dresses) and large prints that shorter women don't dare to wear.
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The secret: You can break up the vertical line with a beautiful contrasting belt.
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3. The Complexion Bonus: Gold or Silver?
Finally, a little touch of simple colorimetry to brighten your face.
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For brunettes (and those with olive/golden skin): You radiate in warm and intense colors. Poppy red , burnt orange, emerald green, or gold will suit you beautifully.
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For blondes (and those with fair skin): Opt for softness or contrast. Pastels (powder pink, sky blue) are very pretty, but navy blue or deep black will really make your hair stand out. Silver is often your best jewelry choice.
In conclusion , knowing your body shape isn't about putting yourself in a box; it's about learning to save time and boost your self-confidence. But never forget Lydie's Boutique 's golden rule: if you feel beautiful in a dress, it's the right one, regardless of the rules!
Need personalized advice? Feel free to send me a message or come see me!
