11 Best Dresses for Apple-shaped Bodies That Define Your Curves

Written by Ankita Kandade, Certified Fashion Expert
Updated on Apr 12, 2024
Dresses for apple shape
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For a fashion connoisseur, discovering styles that enhance your silhouette is like finding precious gems, each one highlighting your strengths beautifully. The apple shape, defined by a fuller midsection, broad shoulders, and slender legs, invites creativity and elegance.

This list of the best dresses for apple-shaped women is ultimately to find dresses that celebrate your unique figure in the best way possible. Navigating through the fashion landscape can be daunting, but with our curated guide, each selection is carefully chosen to accentuate your natural beauty. 

From flattering wrap dresses to A-line styles, our list carries several dresses that will surely enhance your natural beauty without having to break the bank. Swipe through to find out why!

What Is an Apple-shaped Body?

An apple-shaped body is a common body type characterized by broader shoulders and a fuller midsection. The weight tends to be concentrated around the waistline, with a less defined waist, while the hips are narrower in comparison. Typically, apple-shaped individuals have slimmer legs and arms, which can be considered their best assets. This body type may also feature a larger bust and a fuller back. The key to dressing an apple-shaped figure lies in creating a balanced silhouette, drawing attention away from the waist and highlighting the slimmer parts of the body, such as the legs and arms.

11 Best Dresses for Apple-shaped Body Types

Dive into the essence of summer with our Peony Pink Mini Dress, part of the "Summer Lovin'" collection, designed with apple-shaped bodies in mind. Crafted with 100% breathable cotton, it promises both comfort and a stylish flair for those sunny days. The dress focuses on enhancing the shoulders, creating a beautifully balanced look that complements your silhouette. 

Its playful mini-length invites you to twirl and enjoy every moment with a touch of glamour. Stand out this summer and make a statement that even Barbie would envy.

Size: XS to L

  • Best for Casual Wear

    Sage by Mala Clara Skater Dress

    Sage by Mala Clara Skater Dress
  • Crafted from the finest poplin cotton, our deep red skater dress combines comfort with effortless style. The breathable fabric ensures you remain comfortable all day, while the beautiful drape and ease of movement make it the ideal choice for anyone looking to strike a perfect balance between elegance and playfulness. 

    The flared skirt adds a delightful touch of femininity, making this dress a must-have for those who love to infuse their wardrobe with vibrant colors and dynamic silhouettes. It’s perfect for anyone who values both style and comfort in their everyday attire.

    Size: XS to 5XL

  • Best Maxi Dress

    17 Looms Aurora Floral Printed Maxi Dress - White

    17 Looms Aurora Floral Printed Maxi Dress - White
  • Elevate your style with this chic round-neck dress from 17 Looms, tailored for apple-shaped figures. Made from luxurious 100% cotton cambric in crisp white with blue flowers, it emanates timeless sophistication like a home garden. And, its boat neck makes it perfect for people with pear-shaped bodies. 

    Unlike fast fashion prints, the hand block print on this fit adds depth and allure to its A-line silhouette, making it perfect for apple-shaped figures. Moreover, it is a modest fit, which makes it perfect for days when you don’t wish to show much skin.  

    Size: S to L

  • Best Design

    Amour Vert Esther Organic Cotton Poplin Dress

    Amour Vert Esther Organic Cotton Poplin Dress
  • With its structured-meets-relaxed fit, Esther becomes a go-to silhouette for apple-shaped girls seeking effortless elegance. The dramatic balloon sleeves and subtle tailored accents elevate the classic shirt dress, providing a flattering twist. Featuring a crew neck, pieced collar, and button-front shift design with elbow-length raglan sleeves, it exudes timeless sophistication. Shirring details at the neck and sleeve add a touch of femininity and dimension. Crafted from 100% organic cotton, it ensures comfort without compromising style. 

    The structured yet forgiving silhouette of Esther complements the apple shape, accentuating curves while offering a comfortable and chic option for various occasions, from casual outings to semi-formal gatherings.

    Size: XS to XL

  • Best Cocktail Dress

    GG by Asha Gautam Maroon Floral Short Dress

    GG by Asha Gautam Maroon Floral Short Dress
  • For cocktail events, elevate your style with this maroon embroidered short dress, a must-have for apple-shaped bodies. Crafted from sustainable fabric, this dress not only enhances your curves but also embodies eco-conscious fashion. The organza and rose satin material drapes elegantly, offering a flattering silhouette, while the embroidered sequin floral details add a touch of sophistication and glamour. The plunging V-neckline accentuates the upper body, creating a balanced and alluring look. 

    Perfect for making a statement at any event, this dress combines style, sustainability, and confidence for the modern woman.

    Size: XS to XXL

  • Best Vacation Dress

    Oliphant Sleeveless Tiered Short- Sorrento Dress

    Oliphant Sleeveless Tiered Short- Sorrento Dress
  • This exquisite blue dress, inspired by the serene vibes of Greece, is a sartorial escape designed to flatter apple-shaped figures. Crafted from lightweight cotton voile, it promises both comfort and a breezy aesthetic. The hand-block printing introduces an element of artisanal charm, while its fully lined construction ensures a smooth silhouette. The adjustable tie-neck and pleated ruffle detailing along the collar add a touch of elegance and femininity, enhancing the upper body and drawing the eye upward. Its pullover style ensures ease of wear, making it an effortlessly chic choice that celebrates the beauty of apple-shaped girls, enveloping them in a piece that's both flattering and reminiscent of Grecian elegance.

    Size: XXS to XXL

  • Best for Travel

    Boden Helena Chino Short Dress

    Boden Helena Chino Short Dress
  • Apple-shaped girls need to highlight their legs, and this dress is the perfect choice for doing just that. With its length finishing above the knee, it draws attention to the legs, showcasing them in the best possible way. The semi-fitted shape of the dress gently contours the body without clinging too tightly, creating a flattering silhouette that focuses on the legs while balancing the overall figure. The sleeveless design adds to the allure, making the arms look slimmer and longer, and the concealed back zip ensures a sleek, uninterrupted profile. 

    Crafted from a comfortable blend of 97% cotton and 3% elastane, and being machine washable, this dress combines practicality with style, making it an ideal choice for apple-shaped girls looking to accentuate their best features.

    Size: 0 to 22

  • Best for Daily Wear

    Pact Relaxed Slub Market Dress

    Pact Relaxed Slub Market Dress
  • The Relaxed Slub Henley Market Dress embodies a classic look that marries effortless comfort with undeniable style. Crafted from soft organic cotton slub fabric, it promises a gentle touch on the skin while ensuring breathability throughout the day. Its design features a flattering V-scoop neckline and cap sleeves that add a subtle, feminine touch. The high waist seam accentuates the natural waistline, enhancing the silhouette, while hidden side pockets blend functionality with fashion. 

    The A-line skirt, finishing above the knee on most individuals, offers a timeless shape that flatters every body type. This dress is the epitome of laid-back chic, perfect for those seeking style without compromising on comfort.

    Size: XS to 3XL

  • Best Fabric Choice

    Tentree TreeBlend Wrap Front Dress

    Tentree TreeBlend Wrap Front Dress
  • The Treeblend Wrap Front Dress stands out with its eco-conscious elegance, combining a flattering wrap design with the softness of sustainable fabric. This piece is not just about looking great; it’s about feeling incredible and making a positive impact on our planet. Crafted for unparalleled comfort, the dress features a super soft hand-feel, thanks to Tencel™ lyocell — a fabric known for its resilience and gentle touch, derived from sustainably-managed forest wood pulp through a closed-loop process. Additionally, its composition includes recycled materials, transforming waste into fashion without sacrificing quality. With a medium 2-way stretch knit fabric, this dress offers both a flattering fit and a commitment to sustainability.

    Size: XS to XL

  • Best Cottagecore Dress

    Aline Gathered Checked Shirt Dress

    Aline Gathered Checked Shirt Dress
  • For apple-shaped girls, the A-line Gathered Checked Shirt Dress is a wardrobe essential that beautifully balances and enhances your silhouette. Featuring an adjustable waist tie, it allows you to cinch at the waist, creating a more defined shape that flatters your figure. The high-low hemline adds a modern twist and elongates the legs, while the collared neck contributes to a structured, chic look. 

    Functional pockets blend convenience with style, ensuring essentials are within reach. Its relaxed fit, crafted from blue check cotton, offers both comfort and breathability. This dress combines functionality with fashion, making it a versatile and stylish choice for apple-shaped figures.

    Size: XS to 2XL

  • Daughters Of India Jasmine Midi Dress

    Daughters Of India Jasmine Midi Dress
  • This season, every apple-shaped girl's wardrobe needs the essential boho chic piece: The Jasmine Midi Dress. Handmade with love in Jaipur, India, by skilled artisans and makers, this dress celebrates the traditional craft of hand-block printing. Showcasing unique Indian designs in soft charcoal tones, achieved with eco-friendly dyes, it radiates a gentle, earthy vibe. 

    It features a soft, flowing skirt and romantic billowed sleeves that enhance its feminine allure. An adjustable double tie on the yoke offers breast-feeding friendliness, while a white cotton underlining ensures extra comfort. Plus, the material is 100% cotton.

    Size: XS to L

    Our curated selection of the best dresses for apple-shaped girls is designed to upgrade your wardrobe. Stay tuned for an in-depth buying guide to help you select the perfect dress tailored to your preferences.

    Why Does Dress Choice Matter?

    Dress choice is crucial for apple-shaped bodies because it directly impacts how balanced and proportionate the figure appears, playing a significant role in boosting confidence and comfort. Here's why selecting the right dress is especially important for those with an apple-shaped body:

    1. Enhances Body Proportions: For the apple body type, characterized by broader shoulders and a fuller midsection, choosing flattering dresses that accentuate your beautiful shape is key. Puff sleeves can add balance by drawing attention upward, harmonizing the silhouette similarly to how styles favor inverted triangles or hourglass body shapes. Among the primary body types, the apple shape benefits greatly from dresses that cinch at the slimmest part of the waist or drape loosely to skim over the midsection. A perfect party dress for an apple-shaped woman might be a floral print dress that focuses the eye on the print and the silhouette, making it an excellent choice. Such dresses not only celebrate the apple-shaped figure's unique qualities but also ensure that you look and feel fantastic.

    The right dress can help create the illusion of a more defined waist and balance the broader shoulders and fuller midsection typical of apple shapes with the slimmer lower body. This visual balancing act can make the silhouette appear more harmonious and flattering.

    2. Focuses on Strengths: Apple-shaped individuals often have shapely legs, a great bust, and slender arms. The perfect dress will highlight these assets, drawing attention to them while gently camouflaging areas the wearer may feel self-conscious about, like the waistline or tummy area.

    3. Increases Comfort And Confidence: Wearing a dress that flatters your body shape can significantly boost your self-esteem and comfort. Knowing that your outfit accentuates your best features can make you feel more confident and at ease in any setting.

    4. Versatility in Styling: The right dress for an apple-shaped body is not just about fit; it's also about versatility. A well-chosen dress can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions, making it a valuable and functional piece in your wardrobe.

    5. Avoids Fashion Faux Pas: Understanding which dress styles best suit your body type can prevent fashion missteps, such as choosing dresses that overly emphasize the midsection or disrupt the body's natural balance. This awareness ensures that your personal style is always on point and authentic to you.

    In essence, the significance of dress choice for apple-shaped bodies lies not just in aesthetic appeal but in fostering a positive self-image and providing a canvas to express personal style.

    How to Select the Perfect Dresses for Apple-Shaped Figures?

    Selecting the perfect dresses for apple-shaped figures is all about accentuating your assets and creating a balanced silhouette. Here are some key tips to help you find the ideal dress:

    1. Highlight Your Legs: Opt for dresses that showcase your legs, such as A-line or fit-and-flare styles that flare out from the waist. This draws attention away from the midsection and towards your lower half.

    2. Define Your Waist: Look for dresses with empire waistlines or wrap styles that cinch in at the smallest part of your torso. This creates definition and helps to accentuate your waistline.

    3. Choose the Right Length: Dresses that hit at or just above the knee are often most flattering for apple shapes. Avoid dresses that are too short, as they can make your midsection appear larger.

    4. Focus on Necklines: V-necklines and scoop necklines are great choices for apple shapes, as they draw the eye upwards and elongate the torso. Avoid high necklines or details around the bust area that can add bulk.

    5. Consider the Fabric And Texture: Opt for fabrics that drape well and have some stretch, such as jersey or knit blends. Avoid stiff fabrics or bulky textures that can add unwanted volume to your midsection.

    6. Add Interest with Details: Look for dresses with interesting details like ruching or draping around the waistline, which can help to camouflage any trouble spots. Avoid dresses with embellishments or patterns that are too busy, as they can overwhelm your frame.

    By keeping these tips in mind, you can find dresses that not only flatter your apple-shaped figure but also make you feel confident and beautiful.

    Conclusion

    Ultimately, enhancing your apple-shaped figure stylishly boils down to celebrating and highlighting your curves. Choosing the ideal dress can illuminate your waist, harmonize your silhouette, and empower you with confidence. Our meticulously crafted guide for the best dresses for apple-shaped gals aims to simplify this process, ensuring you navigate the fashion landscape with ease. From finding the quintessential wrap dress to selecting a sleek A-line piece, we have everything you need. Dive into our guide and embrace the journey to uncovering dresses that beautifully compliment your apple-shaped elegance.

    FAQ's

    Can apple-shaped women wear jeans?
    Yes, apple shapes can wear jeans. Opt for high-waisted styles to help tuck in the tummy area and choose straight-leg or bootcut designs to balance the overall silhouette. Avoid very tight-fitting styles as they may emphasize the midsection.
    Should apple-shaped bodies wear leggings?
    Apple shapes can wear leggings, particularly those with a high waistband for added support in the midsection. Pairing leggings with longer tops or tunics that fall below the hip can create a flattering look by elongating the torso.
    Can apple-shaped women wear skirts?
    Apple shapes can enjoy wearing skirts. A-line skirts or those with a slight flare are particularly flattering as they skim over the hips and balance out wider shoulders or a fuller midsection. High-waisted skirts can also be very flattering by defining the waist.
    Can apple body shapes wear jumpsuits?
    Yes, apple body shapes can wear jumpsuits. Look for jumpsuits with a defined waist to help create an illusion of a more defined waistline. Styles that are looser around the midsection and have wider legs can also be very flattering and comfortable for apple shapes.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

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    Author BIO
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    Ankita Kandade
    Certified Fashion Expert

    Ankita is a budding journalist and a certified fashion expert. If the Fashion police were an official organization, A More