Identifying your body shape is the first step in finding the most flattering fit in a dress. Style isn't just about rocking the trendiest outfits; it's about bringing out the best features of your body. Flattening your body shape can elevate the look of any wardrobe. To successfully crown the search for the most flattering dress this season, we have prepared this guide to take you by the hand and help you buy that dream dress.

The four body types that we will predominantly address are:

• Hourglass

• Pear (or triangle)

• Athletic

• Round

1. Hourglass

Your Body: Hourglass figures are curvy with proportionate hips and busts. People with this body type have an upper body considered "balanced" with the length of their legs. Hourglass figures also have well-defined waistlines, and this asset should be accentuated!

The best dresses for you: Look for dresses that have:

• V necklines

• Open necklines

• Tight waists

• Fitted tops

2. Pear (or Triangle)

Your Body: Girls with a triangle body type tend to have a slimmer upper body and larger hips and thighs. Triangle body types should opt for dresses that add more volume to their upper half to appear more balanced and proportioned.

The best dresses for you: Any dress with:

• Strapless top

• A fitted open neck

• A V neckline

• Flared or wide skirt (these will help hide a wider hip)

3. Athletic

Your body: If you have an athletic body, your silhouette is slightly narrower at the hips than at the shoulders. Athletic body types also tend to have waistlines that aren't well-defined and broader shoulders. The key with this body type is to balance your upper body with your narrower bottom. In other words, you want to give your figure an hourglass effect.

Best dresses for you: Any dress that balances out your upper body and fills out your hips, such as dresses with:

• Beautification

• Ruffles 

• Any other detail to increase the volume.

4. Apple (or Round)

Your Body: Women with apple body types carry their weight in the midsection and typically have a shorter, less defined waist and slimmer legs. Apple body types also tend to have flatter bottoms.

Best Dresses for You – Any dress that draws attention to your upper body is a good choice. Belted styles, low-waisted dresses, swing dresses, and dresses with an embellished top or an empire waist all fit this criterion. A-line dresses, wrap dresses, and dresses with full skirts are also great options, as they help hide your midriff. A significant asset of Apple body types is their legs, so feel free to show them off in shorter dresses!