Photo: Ben Pruchnie/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
Long dresses are a wardrobe staple and can help to create anything from a chic to a fun to a funky look. With so many different types of long dresses the key is to select one that does not widen your hips but rather that helps to maintain a flattering equilibrium. Defining your silhouette is the most vital part of picking out a long dress. Long dresses do not have to be aging or unstylish; choosing the right one all depends on the event or occasion and the look you are going for.
Floor-Length Gown
A chic floor-length gown is the ultimate way to make a major fashion statement at any high-end event. For average hips, there are a large variety of styles that will work for your shape. If you like a embellishment, go for a floor-length dress with peplum detail to emphasize your hips. This will work especially well if your hips are average but your waist is thick and undefined. If your waist is already defined, select a dress that has a slight train or a fish-tail hemline. This slims and lengthens your body while adding elegance and sophistication.
Maxi Dress
A maxi dress is also floor length but is far less dressy. A maxi dress is the ideal summer dress as it is loose fitting and comfortable. Maxi dresses are the perfect way to channel a seventies vibe and create a lengthened silhouette. Maxi dresses suit average hips perfectly as a simple block colored maxi will not widen or slim your hips but will rather present them true to form. Avoid maxi dresses with horizontal lines as they may add width to your hips making you look disproportionate.
Body Con
A mid-shin-length body-con dress is ideal for turning up the sex appeal while keeping your look sophisticated and chic. A body-con dress will allow your average hips to appear curvy and feminine. Allow a sleek body-con dress to emphasize your natural curves. Try adding a sky-high pair of heels to perfect a party or club look.
Wrap Dress
A below-the-knee wrap dress is a classic way to define your waist and slim average hips. Wrap dresses are chic and perfect for the office. Try a low pair of heels and a smart clutch to dress the look up for a romantic dinner or professional event. Go for a wrap dress with a defined belt area; this will help add definition to a wider waist and bring your average hips into proportion. Wrap dresses create a very feminine silhouette.
