No matter what shape or size your body is, you can dress to look your best by understanding a few style rules and suggestions. Here is a basic guide for becoming an expert in ladies fashion for your own body.
- Determine Your Vertical Body Type
This is a comparison of the bottom and top halves of your body. Knowing this will help you choose flattering lengths as well as whether or not shirts should be tucked in.
o Ladies with a long torso with short legs should wear short to medium length tops with pant lengths that reach the ground. Medium to wide belts over darker colored pants paired with lightly colored shirts look best. Layering tops is good for creating more lines around a long torso. Avoid dropped waistbands and anything tight or tapered. Accessories should draw the eyes upward.
o Those with long legs and a short torso should wear lighter colors on bottom and darker colors on top. Un-tucked tops with flowing waistlines lengthen the torso. Low-rise and flared pants create curves. Aim to draw the eyes downward.
o If you are one of the few with a balanced body, un-tucked medium and long length shirts are ideal. Straight leg and flared pants as well as flowing blouses and dress are most flattering. Use accessories to highlight your shoulders, neck, and face.
- Determine Your Horizontal Body Type
o An hourglass figure has the most options. Fitted and clinging fabrics highlight your proportionate figure and well-defined waistline. Avoid baggy clothing or tapered pants.
o The inverted triangle, or V-shape, looks great in flowing fabrics with lower necklines. Avoid halter-tops or any style that draws attention to your shoulders.
o Pear-shaped women should draw attention to their upper bodies with medium or high necklines. Low-rise pants and slightly flared skirts look great as well.
o Add the illusion of curves to a rectangle shape by highlighting your shoulders or waist with wraparound and A-line styles.
o The oval, or apple, shape needs to add length through semi-fitted clothes with low necklines and un-tucked tops.
- Asses Other Key Factors
o Take into consideration your age, bone structure, neck length, and face shape.
o Emphasize your best features.
Regardless of your body type, you can create the illusion of the perfect body through a strategic use of clothing and accessories. Make the most of your body shape, and remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.