As a curvy size 10-12, I can often find it difficult to find a dress that fits me perfectly while looking flattering at the same time. Having a smaller waist but bigger hips and legs is an issue to start with, but being 5’1 in height adds another layer of pain to the drama that is finding an outfit I love.
For a few years now, I’ve been shopping PrettyLittleThing’s Shape section, and honestly girls, if you have a similar body type, it’s a game changer. The PLT shape range has been designed for women with ‘an ample bust and booty, but a slim waist in-between’, and it does everything it says on the tin.
But with so much choice on the PLT website, it can, at time, feel a little bit like an Aladdin’s cave. A couple of months ago, I was frantically searching the site for a dress suitable for a black tie event, having been given only 48 hours notice, and it was then I stumbled across what can only be described as the dress of dreams.
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The moment I set eyes on PLT’s £36 Shape Black Corset Detail Long Sleeve Ruched Midi Dress, it was love. But I was skeptical it would look as good in real life as it did on the model. Boy was I wrong.
From the moment I first put this dress on, I felt so confident. As someone who normally hates myself in 90% of things I try on, I couldn’t actually believe how good I felt, to tell you the truth.
Because of its corset detail, it instantly nipped me in at the waist. But unlike some other corset styles, it didn’t make me feel restricted and squeeze me in so much I couldn’t breathe.
The corset also sits nicely across the bust area. It’ll give you a little push up bra effect without the panic of a nip slip – which is never fun. I did buy a size 12 as it’s a corset style, so if you’re inbetween sizes, I recommend opting for your top end for the best fit.
A slit down the leg enhances the hourglass effect this dress gives. If you could bottle up an hourglass figure and sell it as an outfit, this is it.
It’s also a blessing for the shorter amongst us. I’ve already mentioned I’m 5’1, and this dress fits me perfectly. I think it’s probably suited to women of every height, but will obviously look a little different depending on how short or tall you are.
The OG colour this dress comes in is the black, but there are 13 diferent colourways to choose from – all of which, I own. My personal favourites are the Olive, which is slightly more expensive at £38 (but looks gorgeous if you want a pop of colour), Red, which will make you look like the dancing emoji, and Hot Pink.
Elsewhere, Club L London is another good choice if you’re looking for figure-flattering summer corset dresses. Oh Polly is also well worth looking at – it’s another of my favourites if I’m dressing up and want to feel and look good.