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An athletic body type is great for workouts, but for me, that’s where it ends. Dress shopping means trying to balance my shoulders, cinch my waist and emphasize my natural curves, all without squeezing. I searched high and low to find 17 chic dress styles that flatter rectangular shapes like mine.
The secret? Well, there are a few. Summer dresses with high empire waists, fit-and-flare silhouettes and smocked bodices are key elements, as are wrap styles, tie belts and asymmetrical necklines. Although I’m far from it, these dress styles work magic to make my figure appear hourglass. Better yet, they start at just $8 on Amazon!
17 Summer Dresses to Fake an Hourglass Figure — From $8
1. My Favorite: With a strategic A-line skirt, this floral maxi dress adds volume below the waist. The bell sleeves balance the hips for that hourglass illusion.
2. Super Stretchy: This waist-snatching maxi feels like a nightgown, but reads as polished, especially with sandals and gold hoops.
3. Country Club: Straight shapes can look boxy when it comes to mini dresses, but this preppy patchwork dress has puff sleeves and V-neckline that build instant proportion. It looks straight out of a Lilly Pulitzer catalogue.
4. Coastal Queen: Whether you’re heading off for a coastal weekend, rehearsal dinner or lake day, this flutter-sleeve midi is one to bring; it makes you appear instantly expensive. The pockets seal the deal.
5. One-Shoulder Wonder: This red floral maxi features an asymmetrical strap that distract the eyes. Ruffle detailing adds dimension where athletic bodies fall flat.
6. Wardrobe MVP: Everyone needs a wear-everywhere dress, and this modest striped midi is yours. The vertical stripes lengthen your frame and the A-line silhouette provides shaping.
7. Cocktail Party: Think client meeting, brunch with the in-laws or church on Sunday. This classy swing dress is equally sophisticated and flattering.
8. Wedding Guest: If sheath dresses make you feel like a column, this floral chiffon option changes the narrative. It floats away from your body right below your bust, faking hip and waist definition.
9. Beach Day: This throw-on-and-go beach dress feels like pajamas, yet looks like you tried, which is the dream when you’re heading to the boardwalk.
10. Classy Cap Sleeves: Boxy maxi dresses are the enemy of a rectangular frame. This cap-sleeve floral pick subtly provides structure at the shoulders and creates curves without shapewear.
11. English Countryside: This whimsical vacation dress photographs like a dream and packs easily, so you’ll bring it from Charleston to Tuscany (and everywhere in between).
12. Effortlessly Mediterranean: Everyone wants to look like a Santorini local and this laid-back sundress is the ticket. I love that it skims instead of hugs the body.
13. Scoop Neck: Tank-style maxis usually drown rectangular frames, but this sleeveless boho dress has a scoop neckline that does the proportion math for you.
14. Center of Attention: Picture a destination wedding, drink in hand. This colorful wedding guest dress reads dressed-up with gold sandals or casual with bare feet.
15. Pretty and Playful: This graphic mini dress features tiered ruffles that create volume at your hips and thighs. That way, you can show off the illusion of curves without shapewear.
16. Summer Long-Sleeve: Long sleeves provide lightweight coverage, which is a major perk if you’re self-conscious about your arms. This vibrant printed maxi is ideal for all things fancy.
17. Cover Up, Too: Halter necklines are a sneaky way to look like a model. This solid-color halter dress doubles as a swimsuit cover up.
