The Best Pleated Dress for Your Shape

These sweet styles have come back into the fold. Here’s a primer on the full range of types and how to wear them, no matter your shape.

If You Have Full Hips and Thighs

Look for: Fit-and-flare shapes that have inverted pleats, or that have knife or crystal pleats down the middle, like the pink dress. These choices flatter the hips without bulking them up. Folds on the bodice help even out curves below.

Avoid: Accordion, knife, and box pleats that begin at the waist. They tend to pull open, making the body look wider.

J.Crew dress.

Get the rundown on all of the various types of pleats mentioned in this story.