LBDs for Girls with Curves

Another anonymous shopaholic enthusiast writes:
"I need your help, see, I'm going to my bf's graduation prom in August. But I have no idea what to wear, I'm overweight, but I've got curves u know, I weight around 170 lbs and I'm 5'2.. (pretty pretty short). Please give me some advice! what can I wear?? I was thinking a black dress, but I don't know what style goes better with my shape.. Thanks for your help!!!"

Well, Anonymous, since you didn't leave your name, I'm going to refer to you as Sasha b/c it sounds better than Anonymous. :) Ok, so first things first, for any new visitors, I claim no fashion expertise, but can only offer my personal opinion on reader questions. I welcome anyone to leave their comments, anonymous or not, in agreement or not, with any extra feedback that will help answer the question.

Back to business...So Sasha, firstly, you should check out my post on "How to Dress Yourself Taller." I would take into account some of these rules when you do your shopping since you're only 5'2" - be sure to check the comments b/c there are a ton of great comments with awesome feedback and tips.

Ok, back to your dress...an LBD is a great choice b/c it's super slimming and it looks chic on everyone. I checked Nordstrom.com and found out that they actually will let you browse their site by store (women, shoes, etc) as well as by figure. Here are a couple that may suit your body type:
Hourglass: Click here to view the "Occasion Dresses" for the "Hourglass" shape. According to the site, the hourglass is "Curvaceous, with full bust, defined waist, and full hips. Look for wraps and knit dresses with fitted or adjustable waists."
Pear: Click here to view the "Occasion Dresses" for the "Pear" shape. According to the site, the pear is "Fuller at the hips and bottom and smaller on top. Look for dresses with fitted, open-neck or strapless tops and full or A-line skirts."
Between these two styles, I think you'll find a great dress. Btw, you can also search for black dresses only by selecting "black" on the "In Color" drop down list. Anywho, here are some of my faves:

For long dresses:

Strapless Satin Gown with Shawl


Sean Collection Double V-Neck Illusion Gown


Betsy & Adam Illusion Back Matte Jersey Gown
*I think this one is my favorite of the group - it's a simply black dress with sparkly details around the shoulders to draw the eye upwards - the back is really unique too*

For Short Dresses:

Tadashi Jersey & Taffeta Dress


Maggy London Silk Chiffon Halter Dress


Donna Ricco Cap Sleeve Silk Dress

A last summary of tips to think of while shopping:
~ For shorter length dresses, look for A-line skirts - they help create/enhance a waist
~ Also, for shorter length dresses, look for skirts just above the knee - skirts lower than your knee will shorten you
~ If you want to show some skin, opt for a strapless dress to show off your shoulders (but strapless may be a bit risque for a graduation - maybe bring a cardigan or pashmina to cover up a bit if you do this)
~ If you don't mind the dress not being completely black, look for a dress with details (embroidery, cutouts, etc) around the bottom of the skirt or right at the top of the dress to draw the attention away from your mid-section - if you're shy about your tummy, that is) Click here to see a fab example - I love this dress!
~ Have fun! Your bf's graduation is an awesome event to celebrate, so enjoy shopping for your dress and enjoy the event!

Happy shopping!