Do you ever feel like fashion rules and trends are designed to flatter only certain body types? The struggle is real, but don’t worry–we’ve got you covered! With this article, we’ll be exploring how to select complementary prints and proportions to create the wardrobe of your dreams, no matter what shape or size you are. Read on to discover the secret to flattering fashion for your body.
1. The Secret of Proportions: Making Your Clothes Work for You
The secret to perfect proportions lies in the fit of one’s clothing. In order for clothes to look their best, it all comes down to the fit. Knowing which clothing option will go best with your frame is key to dressing well and feeling good in what you wear.
Here are a few tips on how to proportionately balance your outfit:
- Choose clothing that emphasize your best features.
- Choose the right silhouette. This means choosing clothing that works for you and your body shape.
- Know the type of neckline that works for your frame. V-necks draw attention to the face whereas boat necks bring a sense of elegance.
- Always remember to pay attention to the length of clothing. Too short or too long can look unflattering.
Fit First, the Rest After
Fit should always come first when it comes to selecting clothes. Put a lot of emphasis on how the piece of clothing fits you. Nothing looks worse than a great garment on someone who looks overwhelmed in it. However, having the right fit can even make old clothes look updated and stylish.
Once you’ve taken into account the tips mentioned above for the perfect proportions, you can focus on the other aspects of your outfit. Color, pattern, and texture can all be used to create interesting looks, and you’re limited only by your creativity.
2. Know Your Body: Finding What Flatters You
Knowing what silhouettes, cuts, and fabric textures flatter your figure can be a huge confidence boost. We’re here to share some tips that will help you find the perfect shape for you.
Analyze Your Shape
- Your body type is defined by the way your bones and muscles are proportioned. Everyone falls into one of five categories: Hourglass, Apple, Banana, Athletic, or Pear.
- Take some measurements such as your chest, waist, and hips. This will help you determine your body type.
- Find where you naturally carry weight, and try to determine your figure’s curves.
Choose the Right Fabrics
- We recommend lightweight cotton blends or jersey for hourglasses.
- Linen is a great fabric for apples.
- Bananas should look for silks, crepes, and light wools.
- Athletic silhouettes should look for thicker, structured fabrics such as tweed, corduroy, and denim.
- Try out knits, cotton blends, and leather for pear body types.
Pick Out the Right Color
- For hourglasses, wear warm-toned colors like red, orange, and yellow.
- Apples should wear bright blues, and yellows.
- Bananas can try light pastels or darker jewel tones.
- Athletic body shapes can rock bold colors like reds, blues, or plaids.
- Pears should reach for dark greens, blues, and purples.
3. Exuding Elegance with Prints: Patterns that Flatter You Best
Adding prints to your wardrobe is one of the biggest trends of the season. With so many prints and patterns available, it can be daunting to decide which ones work best for you.
Florals: To make a statement without feeling overwhelmed by the print itself, opt for smaller floral prints. This is especially suitable for petite frames, as delicate floral prints won’t overwhelm your body shape. For those who like to make a statement with their floral print, opt for larger scale floral with bright hues for a touch of elegance.
Stripes: Linear patterns like stripes flatter most body shapes. With stripes, there is maximum flexibility to try different variations such as thin, thick, bright, and neutral. If you’re on the taller side, experiment with vertical stripes and contrast them with thinner horizontal stripes.
Checks: If you’re looking for a versatile print, checks are the way to go. Tartan checks add a dash of sophistication with its clean and neat design. With checkered prints, the scale of the pattern also decides the impact created. Go for small checkers for a more subtle style, and for a more eye-catching impact, experiment with bigger checks.
Polka Dots: Polka dots can instantly add a fun touch to any look. Smaller dots create a timeless, classic style while larger dots give off a bright and cheerful vibe. Try a neutral base with a few colors of dots to keep the look balanced.
4. Power of Proportions: Strategies for the Perfect Fit
Having the perfect fit is an art form. You can wear the trendiest styles and colors, but the key to stunning style lies in the precise proportions and subtle refinements of your outfit. Once you master the power of proportions, you can make any garment look flattering and tailored to your body.
To find your perfect fit, here are the strategies you should consider:
- Focus on the fundamentals. Start by getting your basics right- the fit of your clothing. For instance, make sure your jackets truly hit your shoulders and your trousers break in just the right proportion.
- Subtly showcase your assets. Choose clothing that flatter your figure. If you have curves, accentuate them with a fitted dress and tailored jackets; if you’re lean and tall, go for longer jackets over tailored trousers.
- Go for accessories that complement. Diversify your style with pieces that not only complete the look but also bring attention to the focal points such as a statement neckpiece, a belt, or earrings. Have fun playing up the proportions and create effortless style.
The power of proportions helps unlock the true potential of your clothes. Combine it with keen eye for detail and express your style with ease!
5. Styling For Success: Making Fashion Work for Your Figure
So you’ve gone shopping and found some amazing clothing that you feel good wearing! Now comes the tricky part – should you try and style it to suit your own individual figure? Absolutely!
Styling clothes to suit your own body type can be a daunting task – but it doesn’t have to be hard. Here are a few tips you can use to take your fashion game up a notch while remaining true to your figure:
- Long torso? Try wrapping a belt around the smallest part of your waist to create a defined shape.
- Shorter lower body? Opt for a slightly flared or cropped pant, and keep the bottom hemline clean and neat.
- Top heavy? Try wearing looser fitting clothes on the top (t-shirts, blouses) and pair them with a slim fitting bottom (pants, skirts).
- Apple shape? Look for clothing that skims the body – this will create curves with minimal effort.
The above tips are meant to serve as a guideline for you to explore and find ways to express your individual style. Keep in mind that each one of us is unique, and our body shapes are no exception. And at the end of the day, the most important thing is to dress up in something that makes you feel good about yourself!
Whether you’re plus size, petite, athletic, or anywhere in between, the right print and proportions can revolutionize your wardrobe. So, be bold and follow the tips in this article to find and celebrate those flattering fashions that will look beautiful on your body. Have fun, and wear it proud!
