Mesh dresses are a bold and versatile wardrobe staple that can add a touch of elegance, edginess, or sensuality to any outfit. While they are often considered daring, mesh dresses can be flattering for every body type if styled correctly. From accentuating curves to creating a more balanced silhouette, there’s a mesh dress for every body shape. Here’s a guide to finding the perfect mesh dress for your body type and how to wear it confidently.
Understanding Different Body Types
Before diving into specific mesh dress styles, it’s important to understand the different body types. Knowing your body shape will help you choose the right mesh dress that highlights your best features.
- Apple Shape: Your weight is primarily carried in the upper body, with a fuller chest and midsection.
- Pear Shape: You have wider hips and thighs, with a smaller waist and narrower shoulders.
- Hourglass Shape: You have balanced proportions with a defined waist, full hips, and bust.
- Rectangle Shape: Your shoulders, waist, and hips are relatively the same width, creating a straight silhouette.
- Inverted Triangle Shape: You have broader shoulders and a narrower waist and hips.
Now let’s explore which mesh dress styles are most flattering for each body type.
Mesh Dresses for Apple Shapes
For apple-shaped bodies, the goal is to balance the upper body and draw attention away from the midsection. The best mesh dresses for apple shapes are those that add volume to the lower body and create a sense of elongation.
Flattering Styles:
- A-Line Mesh Dresses: A dress that flares out from the waist creates a balanced silhouette, helping to draw attention to the legs and away from the midsection.
- Empire Waist Dresses: These dresses cinch just below the bust, allowing the fabric to flow freely and skimming over the midsection. The mesh upper part can highlight the shoulders and arms beautifully.
- V-Neck Mesh Dresses: A V-neckline can elongate the neck and draw attention upward, balancing out the proportions of the body.
Styling Tips:
- Opt for dresses that have structured tops and loose skirts to create a flattering A-line shape.
- Look for mesh dresses with intricate details like ruching or embroidery around the bust to add definition.
- Avoid overly tight-fitting dresses around the midsection.
Mesh Dresses for Pear Shapes
Pear-shaped bodies have a narrower waist and broader hips. The goal is to highlight the waist and balance the lower body with the upper body. A mesh dress that draws attention to the upper body and adds volume to the lower half works best.
Flattering Styles:
- Fit-and-Flare Mesh Dresses: These dresses hug the top and flare out at the waist, emphasizing the waistline while providing enough room at the hips for a balanced look.
- Off-the-Shoulder Mesh Dresses: Exposing the shoulders and collarbones helps to balance out the width of the hips and create a more proportionate silhouette.
- Peplum Mesh Dresses: A peplum hemline adds volume to the hips and creates a feminine, hourglass shape.
Styling Tips:
- Choose dresses with mesh panels or detailing on the upper part to draw attention to your shoulders and neckline.
- Look for dresses that feature a cinched waist to accentuate your curves.
- Pair your dress with a statement necklace or bold earrings to add interest to your upper body.
Mesh Dresses for Hourglass Shapes
Hourglass figures are balanced, with a defined waist, curvy hips, and a full bust. The key is to accentuate the natural curves without overwhelming the figure. The best mesh dresses for hourglass shapes highlight the waist and show off the body’s curves.
Flattering Styles:
- Bodycon Mesh Dresses: These dresses hug the body and highlight the curves. Choose a mesh bodycon dress with strategically placed panels or details to highlight the waist.
- Belted Mesh Dresses: A belted mesh dress helps define the waist, creating an hourglass shape and emphasizing your natural curves.
- High Slit Mesh Dresses: A high slit can highlight your legs and create a more dynamic look while maintaining balance between the top and bottom.
Styling Tips:
- Opt for dresses that emphasize your waist with a belt or fitted design.
- Experiment with mesh dresses that have a mix of solid fabric and mesh panels to add depth and texture.
- Avoid dresses that are too loose around the waist, as they may hide your natural curves.
Mesh Dresses for Rectangle Shapes
Rectangle shapes have a straight silhouette, so the goal is to create curves and add definition to the waist. Mesh dresses that add volume and shape to the body are ideal for this body type.
Flattering Styles:
- Ruched Mesh Dresses: Ruched fabric gathers at the waist, creating the illusion of curves and adding definition to the figure. This style is perfect for creating a more feminine shape.
- Peplum Mesh Dresses: A peplum hemline adds volume to the hips and gives the illusion of curves, creating a more balanced silhouette.
- A-Line Mesh Dresses: As with apple shapes, an A-line dress works well for rectangle shapes by creating a flattering, flared silhouette.
Styling Tips:
- Look for mesh dresses with waist-cinching details or belts that create a more defined shape.
- Choose dresses with volume at the bottom, like a flared skirt or a peplum design, to add curves.
- Avoid boxy shapes or overly loose styles that may mask your figure.
Mesh Dresses for Inverted Triangle Shapes
Inverted triangle shapes have broader shoulders and a narrower lower body. The goal is to create balance by drawing attention to the hips and legs and softening the shoulders.
Flattering Styles:
- A-Line or Skater Mesh Dresses: These dresses flare out from the waist, creating a balanced look by adding volume to the lower body and drawing attention away from the shoulders.
- Mesh Dresses with Flowing Skirts: Dresses with soft, flowing skirts help balance out the upper body’s width and add a more feminine touch to the look.
- V-Neck Mesh Dresses: A V-neck can elongate the torso and create a more balanced look by drawing attention away from the shoulders.
Styling Tips:
- Opt for dresses with soft, fluid lines and avoid dresses with heavy structure at the top that may accentuate the shoulders.
- Look for styles that have details around the hips, such as ruffles or pleats, to add volume and draw attention to the lower body.
- Avoid dresses with shoulder pads or overly structured tops that can make the shoulders appear broader.
Conclusion
Mesh dresses are a fantastic option for every body type when styled with the right cuts, details, and accessories. Whether you want to highlight your waist, create curves, or balance your proportions, there’s a mesh dress out there that suits your body perfectly. By understanding your body shape and choosing the right style, you can rock a mesh dress with confidence and flair for any occasion.
