(The Verge) – Get ready to add this tres-chic trend to your look book! Now that summer is almost here, be ready to show off your hourglass figure in this dress that exudes sex appeal and makes the guys go gaga.
Bodycon dresses first came into prominence in the late ’90s, when celebrities were seen wearing these hip-hugging, curve-cinching styles on the red carpet and in the decades top teen flicks. Short for “body conscious,” the body icon dress was popularized by Herve Ledger who was credited for reviving the trend back into the fashion industry. Bodycon dresses are made to flatter the female figure rather than hide it.
According to College Fashion blog, it is made from elastic or composite material such as spandex or Lycra and fits to the form of the person’s body. They tend to be short in length, usually falling to about mid-thigh level although you do occasionally see longer styles both on the runways and on the streets. Many high retailers such as Bebe, Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney carry lines of Bodycon dresses with cutouts to add some versatility to this streamlined style. Depending on where you want the cutouts to occur on the fabric, it might be savvy to choose wisely. If you’ve got a flat stomach, cutouts along the seams can add a bit of sexiness, but would be a better choice for a night out clubbing than in the office. There are many designs with cutouts along the back, on the sides and some with crisscrossing straps perfect for toned shoulders and a bit of sophistication.
Ideally, this dress works best on women with an hourglass shape with a narrow waist and bust and hips of roughly equal size. When you consider the dress’s construction, tight stretchy material, it is understandable that those with curves will be better served than those without. These dresses are also generally low cut to show cleavage, which is why bustier women will look better than those with little chest. Women with a straight up and down figure, or small hips and bust will find that the Bodycon does nothing for them. Similarly a pear shape figure, that is hips that are much larger than the bust, will want to steer clear of this dress. Remember, there’s nowhere for your body to hide in a dress like this.
If you are a dress fanatic and really want to show off your legs while looking smart and professional at work, opt for a slash or U-neck design in a monochromatic color and pair with a cardigan. The thinner the material, the more of your shape you’re going to reveal, so for a classier option, choose ribbed or paneled designs.
Confidence is key! If you are not feeling it, pop on something you feel more comfortable in. But if you are feeling diva-ish and ready to really wear that dress then slip into your favorite Bodycon and get ready to wow that crowd!
While introduced to fashion in the ’90s, Bodycon dresses are a top trend of today. Reality TV stars like the Jersey Shore’s Snooki has a closet full of Bodycon dresses, and a quick Google search of the style shows you can buy one at contemporary fashion sites like Forever 21, ASOS, Free People and Express.
Though Bodycons are a rising fashion trend, some women prefer their time and tested A-line cuts. But many celebrities have been spotted wearing them adding to the rebirth of this haute couture.
So here’s our warning: wear at your own risk. Compliment your curves, but be mindful of the dress’s limitations.
