How to dress if you're... a pear shape

This week at LittleBlackDress.co.uk we're going back to basics with our body shape special. Take a look at our guide to defining and dressing for your body shape (by the fabulous Wendy Elsmore, celebrity stylist and founder of London College of Style) and keep your eyes on the blog because each day we'll be bringing you more tips and tricks for each shape in the body shape fruit bowl. Today, apple-bottom owners, read on… YOUR SHAPE If you're a pear you'll probably have a smaller bust, with wider hips and a bigger bottom. Pear shapes also tend to have slender arms and narrow shoulders so when it comes to dressing for your next event it's about balancing everything out, which is a lot simpler than you may think. Famous celebrity pear shapes include the glamorous Kim Kardashian and the gorgeous Jennifer Lopez, both super sexy, stylish and pros at playing to their strengths. TOP TIPS

Left to right: Gina Bacconi Pleated Pencil Dress, £200; Gina Bacconi Cowl Neck Dress in Poppy Red, £180; Lipstick Boutique Hannah Dress in Red, £65. Add volume and detail to your top half to balance out your hips and give you more of an hourglass shape. Try embellished necklines and cowl necks for a perfectly proportioned look.

Left to Right: Lipstick Boutique Florence Dress in Floral, £75; Rise Fashion Alexia Dress in Champagne, £45; Rise Fashion Annie Party Dress in Teal, £65. A prom style dress will skim over your hips and bottom helping to make them appear narrower. Try a dress with a flared skirt and a scooped neckline to emphasise your shoulders and balance your body shape.

Left to right: Louche Narcissie Dress in Blue, £55; Forever Unique Staz Dress in Ivory, £70; Ruby Ray 20s Fringe Dress in Black, £95. Make the most of your best bits, your shoulders, with strapless styles or sexy spaghetti straps. Just add a golden glow and you'll be summer party ready. Shop all dresses for pear shapes here.