Summer’s best dresses for your body type

We like to think of formal dresses as our wardrobe's greatest fashion hacks. They can be more comfortable than even your trustiest jeans (without buttons at the waistline, they're totally forgiving after a big pasta dinner). A good dress gives you that "ooh, fancy" feel. When you're running late, they take the guess work out of matching tops with bottoms.

Snag a best-dressed award this summer in a dress that plays up your best features. Here are the best dresses for your body type.

CURVY

Caution, curves ahead? Play up your curves with a wrap dress. The V-shaped neckline and the way this dress type wraps around with a tie closure make it a perfect style to accentuate your curves.

PEAR

Pear-shaped bodies, defined by full hips and rears, meet your match. A-line short formal dresses are great for hiding waists. They score double style points when designed with strapless bodices or embellished necklines, as those details tend to draw the eye upwards.

APPLE

Looking for an instant tummy tuck? An empire dress is perfect for apple body types because it has a fitted bodice that ends right under the bust, complemented by a flowy skirt. A high-waisted cut is ideal for creating perfect curves, too.

STRAIGHT

Fitted sheath dresses and shifts are a great style for those with straight or rectangular body types, showing off shoulders and legs. If you want to create curves, look for dresses that are nipped some at the waist or under the bust.