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Best Dresses for Hourglass-Shaped Bodies

Updated April 2021
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Calvin Klein Tulip Sheath Dress
Calvin Klein
Tulip Sheath Dress
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Simple Sheath
Bottom Line

This tulip-sleeved dress is a contemporary spin on the traditional cap sleeve sheath.

Pros

Sleeves add balance to the style. Princess seams create a flattering silhouette and accentuate the waist. Made with a flexible blend of polyester and spandex. Comfortable to sit in. Easily a go-to dress for day or night wear.

Cons

Dress is unlined, which surprised some consumers given the price.

Best Bang for the Buck
Lark & Ro Classic Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress
Lark & Ro
Classic Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress
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Versatile Wrap
Bottom Line

The side gathering of this wrap dress draws attention to the hips and neckline.

Pros

A chic cut that can be worn with most types of footwear. Lightweight and comfortable, even for commuting and work wear. Available in over 25 colors and patterns. It's budget-friendly, so wearers invest in more than one.

Cons

Not lined, so fabric hugs the body and can reveal panty lines.

Amazon Essentials Scoop Neck A-Line Shirt Dress
Amazon Essentials
Scoop Neck A-Line Shirt Dress
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Casual Option
Bottom Line

A casual A-line shirt dress with a flare that plays off the fitted shoulders.

Pros

Soft and cool to touch with a rayon and elastane blend. Drapes over the waist and hips. Available in 10 colors and prints. Versatile enough to be worn with jackets, sweaters, or tights. Similar design to shirt dresses carried by premium retailers.

Cons

Taller wearers feel the hemline is unusually short.

Alfani Tank Fit and Flare Midi Dress
Alfani
Tank Fit and Flare Midi Dress
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Most Versatile
Bottom Line

A classic fit and flare midi with a full skirt that gives wearers an hourglass silhouette.

Pros

Made with nylon, rayon, and spandex so it won't shrink or fade. Wearers are big fans of the hidden side pockets. Smooth, near-seamless design gives the dress versatility to dress up or down.

Cons

Only available in solid colors. The neckline is much deeper than some expected.

GRACE KARIN Vintage Sleeveless V-Neck Swing Dress
GRACE KARIN
Vintage Sleeveless V-Neck Swing Dress
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Vintage Vibes
Bottom Line

Ideal dress for those with retro or vintage taste seeking a shorter dress.

Pros

Available in dozens of colors. Crisscross bodice and gathered straps add flair and style to the simple design. Accentuates the waist and shoulders. Swing skirt moves naturally and is comfortable. Discreet concealed back zipper.

Cons

Fabric isn't high end. Some petite wearers felt the hemline was awkward.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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107
Consumers
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Hours
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