When it comes to personal fashion, sometimes it feels like we can’t win: the trends either require a body type or budget that we can’t afford – or don’t have! But, with the right knowledge and clothing choices, anyone can look and feel their best when it comes to dressing for their body shape. This article takes you on a personal guide to dressing for your curves, angles, and other unique features – no matter what your body type is.
1. Flaunt the Best of Your Figure: Introducing the Perfect Dress for Your Body Shape
We’ve all had the experience of trying on dozens of dresses and getting nowhere. But don’t despair – finding a flattering dress that works for your body shape is not impossible! All you need to do is follow this guide.
Pear Shaped
- Look for dresses that skim your hips while showing off your waist and shoulders.
- Keep away from ruched detail at the waist – it will make your hips look bigger than they are.
- Choose a style with a V-neck or U-neck to draw the eye upwards.
Apple Shaped
- Consider a wrap dress to create a waistline.
- Go for a maxi dress to camouflage a tummy.
- Also look for high-waisted styles to flaunt your curves in all the right places.
Athletic Figure
- Look for dresses with intricate details like pleats or folds to create shape for an athletic figure.
- Go for bright and bold prints to create visual interest.
- Try something with ruffles or lace to add texture while still showing off your shape.
With just a few key tips, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect dress for your body shape and flaunting the best of your figure. So go ahead and get shopping! You’ll be turning heads in no time.
2. Petite Curves: Creating the Illusion of Height
Vertical lines are your best friends when you’re hoping to create the illusion of height. Whether in clothing or home décor, they will trick your eye into thinking that you’ve grown a few inches.
Stripes & Pinstripes
Striking the perfect balance between dressy and casually stylish, stripes and pinstripes make excellent choices for any figure. They give you a slimming look and heighten your frame.
- Opt for vertical stripes
- Choose the lighter colors
- Look for fabric with horizontal details in the stripes
Vertical stripes can easily be layered together, topped with a blazer or a vest to bring out the elongated look.
High Waisted Trousers
Especially flattering on petite curves, high-waisted trousers or skirt cinch the waistline and create the illusion of a much taller you.
- Look for trousers that hit right at the belly button
- Choose belt loops and drawstrings for more definition
- Avoid bottoms with too many pockets or hardware
By embracing the collection of high-waisted jeans, dress pants, skirts, and shorts, you can embrace a whole new silhouette. Enjoy the newfound confidence that comes with heightening the frame of your body.
3. Timeless A-Line Skirts and Dressing for an Apple Body Shape
A-line skirts are a timeless wardrobe staple that is flattering on almost any figure, but especially flattering on an apple body shape. When dressing for an apple body shape it’s important to create an hourglass silhouette which can be done with structured pieces that create a balanced proportion. Luckily, an A-line skirt is perfect for achieving that hourglass look.
When opting for an A-line skirt, focus on the fit and the length. The fit should be slightly relaxed but still hug the waist and hips. Look for skirts that have pockets, pleats, or detailing as those add texture and create a fuller shape. The length of the skirt should hit around mid-thigh or a few inches below the knee to keep the proportions balanced.
Further jazz up an A-line skirt with a few key pieces. Try pairing it with:
- A fitted top. Chose a top in a contrasting color that cinches in at the waist for a balanced look.
- A knee-length wrap.Scarves and wraps are great for adding texture and can be used as a layering piece when the weather is cold.
- Pointy-toe shoes. These elongate the legs, giving the illusion of a longer but slimmer body.
An A-line skirt is a perfect choice for dressing an apple body shape. With all of these tips and styling ideas, you’ll be the height of fashion no matter the occasion.
4. Broad Shoulders? Embrace the Beauty of Slenderizing Basics
Broad shoulders, like many other “blessing” can be difficult to styling for. Some choose to embrace the slightly androgynous look, while others opt to use clothing to give them the look they desire. Fortunately, both approaches can be successful.
- Camouflage & Balance: Choose tops that are longer on the sides, and pair them with bottoms that add volume, like bell bottoms or a wide-leg pant. This will help to hide your shoulders and balance out their width.
- Clingy Layers: Opt for fabrics that cling – like jersey and viscose – that will emphasize curves and draw the eye downward for a sophisticated look.
- Show Some Skin: Once in a while try wearing tops that plunge in the front or back to draw attention away from your shoulders.
You can also play around with scarves, jewelry, and other layering items to create a look that makes you feel the most beautiful. You may even want to wear a wide belt to emphasize your waist and elongate your silhouette.
At the end of the day, we all have unique body types and it’s perfectly okay for us to want to minimize our assets a bit. Whether you are looking to embrace broad shoulders or would prefer to hide them a bit, you can dress to best suit your needs. Consider these tips to help you look and feel your best.
5. Balance Belted Waists to Accentuate an Hourglass Shape
The belted waist is a classic choice for accentuating an hourglass figure. Not only does it add definition to your waist, but it can also add some length and breadth to your lower half. Here are 5 tips on how to get the most out of a belted waist:
- Choose high-waisted silhouettes with a slightly more structured belt that wraps around the waist, emphasizing the waist.
- Slim, streamlined belts will cinch your waist and create an hourglass look.
- Thicker belts, such as those made of woven or braided cotton, offer more texture and add the illusion of wider hips.
- Emphasis the contrast of a cinched waist by pairing with trousers and skirts with looser, flowing silhouettes.
- If you have a midsection that you want to minimize, opt for styles with a more subtle and wide belt, and place the belt a little bit higher.
Belted waists are a great way to enhance your natural figure and can be dressed up or down depending on what you’re going for. With a few tricks, you can craft an outfit that flatters you, emphasizing the right places to draw attention to your timeless hourglass shape.it
No matter what your body shape is, it is important to embrace and celebrate it. And the best way to do that is to find the looks that flatter your figure, so you can feel confident and gorgeous. With these simple tips, you can get creative and have fun dressing for your body shape and making the most of it. So rock the trends that have been made for you and show off your stunning shape!
