Summer Dresses for All Body Shapes

This summer's number one rule: buy as many dresses as possible. From casual lunches to picnics and hot nights out with your friends, dresses are this summer's must-have. Mini, maxi, retro or ever-green, we're free to choose whatever suits us best and show it off on every possible occasion. Below is a selection of dress styles that will help you keep on top of this trend and see what best fits your body shape and overall personal style.

1. The voluminous shaped mini dress.

A wonderful option for the ladies who can't yet boast a flat stomach, but who want to make the most of their long legs. Voluminous mini dresses are in this season, but make sure to go for a high neckline and cap sleeves, if you're not too thrilled with your upper arms yet. Don't forget to add a pair of glamorous heels - flats are also an option, but only if you've got slender ankles. The good news is that you'll be able to wear this dress all the way through next fall, as you can always add a pair of opaque matching tights or leggings for a chic look.

2. The maxi dress

The Seventies-inspired maxi dress is one of the summer's hottest retro looks. As far as the print goes, retro is the way to go - bold, colored patterns will give it an ultra-trendy air. If for some reason you don't feel you can pull the patterned look off, go for a one-color dress. Style tip: don't wear this dress if you're petite and slender, as it will cut even more height and make you look like you're being eaten alive by a patterned monster.

3. The shift dress

This sixties-inspired beauty is fit for both boyish and fuller figures. It's perhaps the most readily versatile trendy dresses this summer: its clear-cut lines make it ideal for work and will give you a sharp, smart air of simple, inbred elegance. Add a pair of wedges or colorful flats and a long cardigan for the chilly nights and you've got yourselves a chic casual look.

4. The tea dress

Another universal style fit, the tea dress will help give free reign to your creativity and imagination with its bold, colored patterns that range from florals to polka dots. It's casual and flattering for various figures and body shapes. The more slender ones among you can add a belt that will accentuate your waist, while ladies with not-so-flat stomachs can simply add a pair of wedge sandals, wooden cuff bracelets and a colored bag to balance the look and they'll be good to go.