Flatter your figure with these festive dresses

In part one of the special series, “Real Simple Holidays,” Kristin van Ogtrop, editor-in-chief of Real Simple magazine, shares some dresses to flatter every type of figure.

The weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas are jam-packed with holiday parties, leaving many of us stumped and stressed about what to wear. It can be impossible to find one that really fits, one that flaunts what you've got and forgives your flaws. So whether you're long and lean or short and shapely, Real Simple searched through dozens of party dresses to find the prettiest, most flattering ones for every figure.

Best for curvy figures
Made of party-perfect taffeta, the classic dress from Target shows off a voluptuous figure with a full skirt and a slim belt that defines the waist. It's available in five colors in sizes 2 to 18. Best of all is the price! $50, Isaac Mizrahi for Target

Best for large bust
Darts at the bust give the bodice of the velvet-and-tulle dress from Banana Republic a flattering shape. Wide straps provide enough coverage to hide the straps of your favorite bra. The tulle skirt is also removable if you want something simpler. Available in sizes 0 to 14 in black or cranberry, which is nice for the holiday season. $148, Banana Republic

Best for petite figures
The self-tie halter on the short polyester-blend dress from White House Black Market easily adjusts to fit. Ruching flatters any bust, and the fabric is not heavy and doesn't overwhelm a small build. Sizes 0 to 14. $148, White House Black Market

Best for plus size
Two layers of airy fabric skim over curves, and an empire waist draws eyes upward. Made of rayon-polyester — it's machine washable. Sizes 14 to 28. $89.50, Lane Bryant

Best for wide hips
The blousy top of the silk dress from Marie Marie offsets hips, while the A-line skirt has a slimming effect, with a belt that accentuates the waist. Sizes extra-small to large. Available in three colors, including red and khaki green, but Real Simple loves silver for the holidays. It's a little pricier than the other dresses, but it was a favorite for this body type. $449, Marie Marie

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