The A-line dress is perhaps the most attering of all basic styles. It is one of fashion’s most enduring shapes. It is exactly what the name implies. It is, as the name suggests, fitted at the bodice and gently flaring to the hem. It skims the hips as it moves down to the width at the bottom.
It was introduced by designer Christian Dior in 1955 and was labelled “the most wanted silhouette in Paris”. Later, it was much refined by his successor, Yves Saint Laurent, to the basic style we still see today. Since then, some version of the A-line is seen every season and in every fabric.
Where It Is Worn
The style is so basic that it adapts to any length and any fabric, which means it can be developed to suit any occasion. The degree of formality depends on the choice of fabric, the degree of embellishment and the length.
Who It Flatters
It is an ideal choice for most body shapes. It is a great style for the woman with a triangle shape, that is, a smaller bust and somewhat large hips. The one body shape that does not adapt as easily to the A-line is the inverted triangle – that is, a large bust and slim hips.
