Most of us plan an outfit on what we like rather than on what we should. And so we should đ Dressing must be pleasurable, after all. Still, being aware of your body shape and knowing just a few simple guidelines will help you look better (if there’s room for improvement đ
The general guideline is to create a proportional silhouette by hiding what should be hidden (excess curves, wider parts e.g. bride shoulders, thick legs)Â and trying to create volume where it lacks.
Let’s start – head to toes đ
1. Shoulders.
Too wide shoulders – hide them with simple, elegant tops, a single color is best. If they are too muscular avoid French-line (boat) dĂ©colletĂ©s or deep cut tops, which will only bring the attention to where it’s not welcome. Shirts are a good choice, vertical stripes as well.
Too narrow shoulders – compliment them with scarves, thrills, business jackets – every piece that creates volume where it lacks. Avoid exposing them in open line tops that will only earn you sympathetic gazes. Horizontal stripes create the illusion of width so you can make use of them. T-shirts with collar and shape are a good choice as well.
2. Chest
Too large breasts – wear a good bra, no pads and make clever use of loose, yet well-cut, elegant clothing. Free falling tops, straight shirts, flower or colour patterns, romantic, free-falling dresses.
Small breasts – use a padded or push-up bra and choose tops, which does not stick to your body. Generally avoid clothes with prints or decorations at the front, which gather the attention. Simple, even nude colors or uniform patterns are preferable. Thrills create volume.
3. Waist
If you have a wide waist, use thin belts to make it look smaller. If your waist is small, on the other hand – emphasize it with large tight belts, high-waist trousers and skirts, tight dresses.
If you carry more weight around the waist than you should, hide it with jackets, cardigans, straight-cut dresses, pencil skirts, especially long ones. Emphasize your other assets like beautiful shoulders or thin legs.
4. Legs
Needles to say, if you are a lucky owner of thin and long legs you should show them to the world in shorts, skirts, mini dresses etc. For the rest of us, here are some tricks:
Sporty, muscular legs – straight or even skinny jeans that stress the line but not the bare details are great. Don’t opt for short skirts/ dresses, and if you do use dark hosiery and heels, especially thin ones. Maxi skirts and dresses on the other hand are great.
Too well developed calves, yet thin and elegant hips – hide the lower part in tall boots – now you can do that all season long with summer boots as well. Maxi skirts of mesh or other concealing material are a good choice. Pencil skirts and straight-leg jeans should have a place in your wardrobe!
Thick legs – your preferred clothing are pencil skirts, long dresses, broad trousers. Wear heels, if possible.
Below we offer you a selection of our items, which may well be used in creating your perfect image:
Of course, you are welcome to join UBYDesign and add your own fashion items for sale, swap or give away.
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