How to Dress for Your Body Shape

Why is that some clothes look great in the store and then when you get them home, they fit fine, they just don’t look so great. That is because they don’t fit your body shape.

There is a commonly held myth that body shape has everything to do with weight. While there is some truth to that, body shape is primarily the result of proportion and has very little to do with weight gain. If you want to know your body shape, grab a tape measure and a friend and check the measurements at your bust, waist and hips. The difference between these is your body shape.

This is a topic which I discuss in depth on my blog at www.glamourbylbd.com Be sure to check there for more information on all different body types and the best fashions to wear for every season.

If the three measurements are similar, you are a rectangle. Look for clothes that give the effect of curves: empire tops or dramatic collars add emphasis to the shoulders; a belt at the waist and pants that are fairly form fitting..don’t get lost in wide leg pants!

If your emphasis is your waistline with smaller bust and hips, then you are an apple shape. It is so important to wear clothes that fit. Walk away from the tent dress! Rouching at the top will give the breasts an uplift. A pencil skirt is probably a great look as are pants with a skinny leg. Just be sure to size up to fit the waist! A longer jacket is usually a good bet but be sure that it fits nicely so that it does not add weight. Avoid waistbands and a pant that is cut below the navel will fit and look much better!

If you have a smaller bust with larger waist and hips, then you are a pear shape. Fluid pants of a bootcut probably help to level out your emphasis. Be sure to accentuate your top with a collar or neckline that draws attention to your top to balance out your figure. Scarves or jewelry may also be a good way to take the eyes upward.

If you are larger on top with a smaller waist and hips, then you are a downward triangle. Boot cut or skinny pants are usually your best bet as they will create more curves at your lower half. On top, look to wear neatly fitting tops that do not add bulk. Experiment with belts to see if they will balance the body’s proportions.

If you are fairly even between bust and hips with a smaller waist, then you are an hourglass. Lucky you! Emphasize the curves with skirts, pants and jeans that emphasize your curves. Belts and accessories will serve you well as long as you keep it simple.

You will feel the most comfortable when your clothes fit properly. You will look your best when you carefully select clothes to emphasize your assets….and we all have assets. br>
Laura Beth DeHority is a glamourist in San Jose, California. Check out her daily blog at http://www.glamourbylbd.com.