Some body types can pull off certain fashions better than others, and everybody wants to pick items that flatter them the most. Before we look at how to pick out the best styles for your body shape, heed this universal rule: Buy clothes based on fit, not size. Every store’s sizes are different, and just because you want to stay in your size range, doesn’t mean that the piece fits you right. Going up a shirt or pant size in come cases can help clothes look better on you—they’ll be fitted but not skin-tight. One you’ve got that one down, follow these tips for buying clothes that look best on your body:
Curvy
When you’re curvy, fit is everything. You don’t want clothes that are too tight and accentuate every ample part of you, but you also don’t want to choose big, baggy shirts or pants—these cover your shape and actually make you look bigger.
Photo by Tattoo76 from Flickr
Dark-wash jeans are flattering on everyone, and just because you have curves doesn’t mean you can’t wear skinny jeans. Also, dresses that cinch at the waist with a belt or tie are flattering for curvy women. If you’re looking for shoes, choose a pair with a heel—these elongate your body and draw the eye up. You can find good deals on women’s shoes online, including on sites like Target and Nine West.
Photo of red pump from Target
Petite
Petites can pull off a bunch of different styles, but be careful the styles you choose don’t dwarf your small frame. For example, high-top shoes actually make you look shorter, because they hide part of your leg. However, knee-high boots and heels elongate legs, so stick to those styles when shopping.
Photo by Fashionista’s from Flickr
Go for tops and bottoms with shorter cuts that fit your smaller figure. For pants, many stores offer complimentary alterations on full-priced items, so even if something you love is a little too long, you can get it tailored at no extra cost. Go for form-fitting clothes that fit comfortably, and take some chances with different necklines like scoop necks and V-necks.
Tall
Ah, the ongoing feud about tall girls and heels—some tall girls love them, some tall girls hate them. Either way, both heels and flats look good on tall women, just make sure if you wear heels, you’re comfortable towering over almost everybody in the room. Make sure to wear long-enough pants with your heels and longer-cut shirts, so you don’t have to worry about your midriff showing every time you lift your arms.
Photo by …love Maegan from Flickr
Search online for sites dedicated to fashion for tall women. The cuts are longer on these sites, and you’ll be able to find stylish pencil skirts, jackets and dresses that look great on your body type.
Filed under: Beauty and Fashion, Featured Press Tagged: clothing, Clothing sizes, Constitution type, Flickr, Knee-high boot, Nine West, Pencil skirt, Petite size
