Choosing an outfit to flatter your natural shape can feel a bit like painting by numbers. By sticking to style and cut ‘rules’ we can soon feel like we’re spending our lives in identikit outfits which can take away the joy of dressing! However, at the same time no one wants to choose to dress in an unflattering way. How on earth can we get around this dilemma then? When variety is the spice of life, how can you feel fresh and excited by your clothing choices whilst still dressing to flatter your natural shape?
Principles, not Rules!
Treat body shape style rules as guidelines. There are no fashion police ready to come down on you like a ton of bricks if you’re triangle shaped but love a halter neck. We can become overwhelmed in the details of what our body shape should and should not wear. So what are the most basic principles?
Apple
Prominent necklines elongate the torso and empire or A-line give definition to the hips.
Pear
Add definition to the top half of your body with elaborate necklines. Skinny and wide leg trousers balance out well for the bottom half.
Triangle
Wide and V necklines balance the shoulders with straight cut or skinny bottoms.
Rectangle
Separates help to build a waistline and layers will add depth.
Hourglass
Make the most of your waist with tailored fits and cinched waist dresses or high rise jeans.
Smoothing the Line
These very generic rules are not hard and fast and should not be concrete in your wardrobe! After all, shapewear is here to widen your scope! So if you’re conscious about an apple waist, go for a high rise control brief. This will cinch in your waist from your bust line to make more curve and smooth your line. Similarly, shaping shorts provide compression through the hips and thighs, toning down a pear shape bottom half. By gently smoothing your silhouette, you can use shapewear to enable you to feel more confident in a wider range of styles.
Variations on a Theme
Once you’ve found a look that you feel is flattering, try to widen its scope by variations on that theme. A-line skirts can be structured or skater, for example. Bold prints need not just be floral. If V-necklines work for you, try a deep scoop or dramatic cowl neck. Don’t get stuck in that same detail.
Optimise your Shapewear
Don’t be afraid to use shapewear. Maybe you’ll have some outfits that you’ll only wear over a bodysuit or shaping cami. That’s OK, as long as you feel confident when you’re wearing it. Shop for a range of shapewear, so that you’re equipped both for daily and occasional wear. This really is an incredibly powerful tool for opening up your style horizons and feeling knockout while you’re doing it!
Accessory Power
Accessories have the power to change outfits. They’re amazing! If you’re big busted but love a roll neck, just add detail with a necklace or scarf accessory to soften that part of your shape. A wide belt works wonders if you’re rectangle shaped but fancy that figure hugging dress. In short, don’t let your shape stop you, as accessories are there to help!
Comfortable Confidence
Guess what is the best way to look great in any outfit? Being comfortable in your own body. That kind of body confidence is like gold dust, and if we could bottle it we’d be billionaires! So alternatively, take steps to get yourself into as comfortably confident a place as possible. So, yes, look at the principles of dressing for your body shape. But also build your confidence by wearing what makes you happy. With good shapewear, we hope to give you a smooth and structured silhouette that lays the foundation for confident dressing
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.
