body shape

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Silhouettes for today's popular quinceañera gowns fit under these five categories:

1. BALL GOWN: This is the most popular and classic shape for quinceañera. The ball gown consists of a fitted bodice and waistline with a full skirt. It's usually enhanced by a crinoline, the poufy or wired underskirt that makes the skirt full. This look resembles a fairy-tale princess!

2. EMPIRE: The empire-style gown has a high waistline under the bust with a narrower skirt. It was very popular in the '60s, thanks to Princess Grace Kelly and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. This gown flatters very skinny girls and fits with retro party themes.

3. A-LINE: An A-line silhouette is a combination of fit and flare. It's softly shaped at the waist. We call it an A-line because the skirt is in the shape of an "A." A-lines are flattering on almost anyone!

4. SHEATH: The sheath silhouette has a slim bodice and skirt. Though this silhouette is more common for damas than for the quinceañera, it's great for the quince girl who wants to be different and likes a body-hugging style.

5. MERMAID: This variation of a sheath silhouette is suitable for girls who like to show off their curves. The mermaid-style gown is formfitting and flares from the knees down. One warning: This shape is not very comfortable for all-night dancing, so you may want to change your outfit for the dance floor.

Hey, I would love to hear what your dress is like. Which fit was best for you? Post it on the blog!

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As you try on tons of quince dresses, you might be feeling a little self-conscious about your body and your weight. You might wish to lose a few pounds for the occasion, or wish your tummy was a little flatter. Well, hold on a sec! Remember that there is no such thing as “the perfect body.” Celebrating your quince is about celebrating YOU, just the way you are.

If you are suffering from the “gordita” syndrome, listen up! Any one of us with LATIN in her blood is a very special breed of woman called LATINA. We come in many shapes, sizes, and styles. A lot of us are fuller figured, curvier, and average size 12 and up. I know, because I am one of them! So are my abuela, mamá, tías, primas, y sobrinas and most “Hispanicas” I know.

When you are looking for your ideal quince dress, don’t get depressed if you try on a size 10 and it’s a bit snug. Try the next size up until you feel comfortable. Don’t just buy the dress and decide that you’ll lose weight to fit in it — that's the wrong motivation. And if you do lose weight before your party, you can always get the dress that once fit comfortably tailored.

It’s better to have HEALTHY EATING HABITS before, during, and after your quinceañera. As long as your weight is proportional to your height (ask your doctor), you don’t have to give up the arroz con frijoles y tamales completely. Just take care of your health and learn to love yourself without trying to live up to other people’s definition of beauty.

Here are some beauty tips to prepare for your big day and to maintain a healthy beauty always!

• Eat three smaller-portioned comidas daily
• Don't skip breakfast
• Eat more frutas y vegetales
• Eat less bread, pasta, y azucar
• Drink lots of agua
• Stay physically active (baila!)
• Develop good feminine-hygiene habits
• Keep your skin, hair, teeth, and nails sparkling clean
• Feel good about yourself. Confidence is beautiful!

Do you agree? What would you say to other quinceañeras about beauty? Comment below.

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What is a princess without a gown? Your dress is easily the most important detail of your quinceañera. It reflects your personality and style. But no pressure, seriously! Shopping for your dress is going to be a lot of fun. Pretend you’re putting on a fashion show — try on several styles, even if you don’t like one at first. You should choose your dress at least six months in advance to allow time to make alterations and find the perfect shoes, accessories, and undergarments.

When you find the dress you love (your heart will jump when you look in the mirror!), buy it and stop looking. Trust me, after a while all the dresses you see will start looking alike. You don’t want to lose the one that felt special. Now that you have your dress, you can start thinking about your damas.

Damas are to a quinceañera what maids are to a bride. Although the quince girl may have as many as she wishes, tradition calls for 14 damas. They all dress alike. I know what you’re thinking: Each girl is a different shape and has a different style — fashion disaster waiting to happen! But it’s not!

It is possible to please everyone. Choose the fabric and color, and then let each dama pick the dress style that flatters her figure (whether it’s V-neck, halter top, empire waist, strapless, etc.). This way, she’ll feel comfortable and everyone’s unique styles match. You may also pick a simple dress design and let each dama choose a color from choices you offer. Rainbow quinceañeras are a smart idea, because they give you more options when coordinating other details, like the centerpieces and flowers.

Do you have your dress already? How did you know your dress was “the one”?

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