An A-line dress is a dress that is narrow in the chest area and gradually widens downward, resembling the shape of the letter "A". The term "A-line" is used to describe a dress, skirt, or coat with a triangular silhouette, narrow and fitted at the top and widening out from the bust or waist in a straight line to the hem. The A-line silhouette is designed to emphasize a narrow waist, wider hips, and the bust line. A-line dresses are one of the most popular dress styles and are often used in wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and everyday outfits. The term "A-line" was first used by the French couture designer Christian Dior as the label for his collection of spring 1955). A-line clothes remained popular in the 1960s and 70s, disappeared from fashion almost completely by the early 1980s, and were revived by the retro trend of the late 1990s). Today, A-line dresses can be found in various lengths and styles, and the shape itself plays the biggest role in how flattering the dress is on the body and how it will enhance ones shape.