Finding the Perfect Dress for Summer With a Personal Shopper

There are many summer occasions for which you may want a fantastic new dress to make a great first impression. There is a huge amount of choice of dresses in the shops this season so if you're not convinced about what to go for, a personal shopper can help you make a perfect choice. Here are some of the issues you'll need to consider.

Patterned or Plain

If you prefer quite a natural look you will be most comfortable in a plain dress in a light or neutral colour. Similarly, if your look is quite classic then a plain black, white or navy dress will suit you well. However, if you are more dramatic one of this season's bold prints will work better for you. If you like a romantic, feminine look you will love this season's floral patterns.

Straight or Curvy

If your body shape is quite straight (rectangle, column or inverted triangle) then a straight shift dress in stiff fabric will flatter your body line perfectly. If your body is curvy you will need more of a drapey fabric that has more stretch and movement to accommodate your curves.

Length

Maxi dresses are still popular and are useful for slimming the body. If you are very tall be sure to choose a dress where the colours break up the body. One colour throughout will not be flattering. Conversely, if you are petite, a maxi dress can help to give the illusion of height. If you prefer a shorter length, make sure that your dress ends at a narrow point on your leg.

Pleats and Gathers

Gathers and pleats are very on-trend and are brilliant to add detail to narrow hips or flattish bust lines. Be careful if adding gathers to fuller areas - the fabric will need to be very soft over curvy areas or they will just make your body look bigger than it really is.

Necklines

Necklines are quite varied this season. The popular assymetrical neckline works well on most body shapes. Halter necks work best when you have broad but elegant shoulders to do them justice. Strapless are popular for very dressy occasions but if you are conscious of flabby upper arms, team with a shrug to conceal them. Plunging v-necks are fantastic on full busts.

So, whether the occasion is a summer wedding, ball, christening, cruise or special holiday, take time to consider all the options. If you're still in doubt, hire a personal shopper to help you find the perfect dress for you. Make great first impressions in your dresses this summer and enjoy the season knowing you look the bees-knees!


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Beth Price is a senior personal shopper and stylist with Colour Me Beautiful. Based in Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, she offers advice on all aspects of personal image and loves helping her clients to create fabulous first impressions.