Disclosure: AD, this is a sponsored post, however all opinions are 100% my own.

This season I'm working with Cotton Traders as they have launched a gorgeous collection based on the perfect dress with great options to flatter all our different body types. The first step to fuss-free styling is a selection of dresses you can throw on and you're ready to go. I've always loved having a wardrobe with plenty of dress options as you don't have to think too much about what to wear each day. There's no matching a top and skirt or trousers, you pick a dress and add your accessories. Something we all need in our busy lives. 

So why should you wear a dress going into the shoulder seasons and why are dresses a great choice for this time of year?

As I've mentioned, having an ease with your styling is brilliant and dresses suit this as they are essentially one-piece outfits. This simplicity makes them easy to style, so they’re suitable for a variety of occasions. They are also adaptable as they can be dressed up or down with accessories, footwear and outerwear. I often wear the same dress with trainers for a park trip with the kids and then switch to heels and add some jewellery for the evening.

The best thing is that a dress can come in various styles and cuts, making it possible to find an outfit that flatters different shapes. So there is something for everyone which is good news! With that in mind we're gathered a selection of dresses for common body types so you know what works for you. 

Hourglass body shape

The lucky hourglass shape is curvy with well proportioned hips and bust and a very balanced look. Individuals usually have an upper body which is a similar length or in proportion to their legs. Known for their well-defined waist, this asset should be accentuated with lovely belts or details in all the right places. Look out for a halter neckline or a V-neck. Classic dress styles suit the hourglass figure and are the timeless cuts which never go out of fashion. These designs can be worn for years, reducing the need to constantly update your wardrobe.

This 'Just-Right Jersey Midi Dress' is a great option with elasticated shirring to the upper body which holds your curvy figure and flatters. Shirring is two or more rows of gathers that are used to decorate parts of garments, usually the sleeves, bodice or yoke. It's very feminine and here used with wide shoulder straps so if needed, you have larger bust support. The waist tapers in to keep the lovely hourglass silouette and most importantly there are pockets! 

Perfect for both summer and with a tshirt and a cosy cardigan in the autumn. We would like to try this style in colder weather with a leather biker jacket and black heeled boots. 

Pear shape

With a pear body shape or triangle body type there will typically be a narrower upper body and wider hips and thighs. To appear more balanced and proportionate, triangle body types could opt for dresses that add more volume to their upper half.

These could be dresses with a fitted open neck, a V-neckline, bigger flowy sleeves and on the lower half with an A line skirt. 

 We found this Gathered Waist Dress which has a gorgeous, gather of material around the neckline. Creating interest and more balance in the upper body while keeping it delicate and feminine. The shirred elasticated waistband, means the skirt has a little movement without being too biluous which suits a pear-shaped figure. 

This is also a classic style with a polka dot print, who doesn't need a midi dress like this! 

Athletic or rectangle body shape

Should you have an athletic body, your silhouette is likely to be slightly more narrow in the hips than in the shoulders. Athletic body types also tend to have waists that are not as well-defined but most important thing is to balance your upper body with your narrower hips. 

Best dresses for you are those that will balance the upper body and embrace your slender hips. This means you can have fun with dresses that have embellishment and ruffles and other volume-increasing details. Dresses that slightly flare out are ideal for you as they show off your best features. 

We love this Crinkle Maxi Dress which has details at both the upper and lower body which will balance a rectangle body type. The pretty appliqué lace to front and in the tiers of the skirt are beautiful. We are completely taken with the khaki colour which works well for every season. 

Dresses often provide a greater level of comfort compared to more restrictive clothing options and this one is a great example of what to wear to look incredible but still be able to do every day tasks. I can vouch for this as I ended up playing rounders with the neighbours in mine! 

Apple shape

Those of us with an apple body shape carry their weight in their midsection and usually have a shorter, undefined waist, and slim legs. This means any dress that creates a more defined waist or shows off your lovely legs is a good option. 

Belted styles, or if you prefer drop-waist dresses, swing dresses and an empire waist all fit this criteria. A-line dresses, wrap dresses, and dresses with full skirts are also great options, as they help conceal the midsection. As your major asset is your legs, shorter dresses look wonderful on you. So choose these or go for a dress with detail at the waist or a belt to add definition. 

We've chosen this Print Maxi Shirt Dress which has soft, drapey fabric. It has elastication to the back waist for discreet comfort. There are pockets in flattering side seams and it looks chic belted at the waist. 

A shirt dress is a trend which reappears every year and is a must have item for every wardrobe. 

Petite

There are many lovely dresses now available for petite figures and often separate categories in some stores for petite women. Short dresses show your legs and with an asymmetrical hemline can help you look taller. Slim-fitting items with pleating or vertical prints and a V-neckline will help elongate your silhouette. For this reason mini dresses are the best option for petite women but you can also wear a long maxi dress. Ideally, the hemline should be somewhere between ankle length and the top of your foot.

Pretty and perfectly formed, this Jersey Knee-Length Swing Dress has a flattering fit and with a delicate floral print. The relaxed swing shape, originally known as the ‘flapper’ style is suited to busy days out and about and the ¾ length sleeves will take you through to autumn. 

This is a dress to throw on and head to the school run, or out for lunch with friends. It's simple, comfortable and suits most occasions. It’s also good for travel because the jersey fabric can be easily folded and they take up less space in your luggage compared to multiple pieces of clothing. 

As you embark on your quest for the perfect stylish dress, we trust our guide has been valuable in your search! Dresses have the incredible ability to transform your everyday getting-ready routine. They blend convenience, comfort, and looking good whilst helping the process of dressing up be an absolute pleasure. Just slip into your favourite dress, and you're ready to take on the day. 

They also have a magical quality of saving you precious time. Your morning routine becomes streamlined, leaving you with more time for the things that truly matter to you. Whether it's enjoying an extra cup of coffee, a morning workout, or a few extra moments of relaxation, dresses grant you the gift of time.

We hope you've been inspired to let dresses do it all for you this season and beyond!