Thursday, August 28, 2008

11. BODY TYPE (flaunt or fix)

No one has a "perfect" body. Everyone have flaws, even models! Knowing our body type is important because it guides us on choosing clothes that will flatter our body the most. So here are some tips on finding the perfect dress that will compliment you body type.

PEAR

body credentials: narrow shoulders, full hips and thighs, defined waist

The key is to focus on accentuating your assets like you waist and shoulders. Empire waist dresses are definitely your friend but straight dresses that tighten on the hips is a no go. Choose fabrics that are fluid and not too clingy. Vertical draping and seaming will help elongate the body. Just remember to wear a dress that is fitted on the top and not on the bottom.

Avoid thin straps and boat necklines, and stay away from pleated or gathered fabric at the waist as this will accentuate your broader hips. Fitted tops such as a strapless corset-style bodice look best with this body shape especially in combination with that A-line skirt.

APPLE

body credentials: larger shoulder and breast, smaller hips and thighs

You should definitely show off your legs. An A- line skirt will be the best. Choose fluid fabrics like flowing silks and loose cottons. Pick pieces that are shaped but not tight. Bring attention to the bottom half of the body.

Apple bodies should avoid halter, heavily decorated, off-the shoulder, and boat necklines as these accentuate your already broad shoulders. Try to avoid puffy sleeves or big tops in combination with slim bottoms. This will exaggerate your wider shoulders as well.

The most flattering neckline for a full bust is the V-neck or a plunging neckline as they make the body appear less round. A fuller skirt will also balance your fuller bust.

HOUR GLASS

body credentials: shoulders and hips are about equal in width, small waist

Accentuate your waist. Find styles that have square necklines. This will accentuate your features without making your shoulders appear too wide or your waist too thick. A strapless or off-the shoulder neckline is perfect for an hourglass shape.

Avoid heavily beaded dresses since they tend to make you appear heavier than you actually are.

That being said, you can't really go wrong. An hour glass figure is very well proportioned so you can pretty much pull off anything.

SLENDER

body credentials: slim body, minimal curves

If you want to appear less boyish and more feminine choose dresses that will give you an illusion of a curvier body. Dresses with extra details like full sleeves and a ruched waist is great. Belted styles, like shirt and wrap dresses, and those with defined waists is the best. Details at the waist and an A-line skirt make for a more feminine silhouette.

Avoid sheaths and other clingy styles as this will not add any fullness to your slender shape.

CURVY

body credentials: larger breast, small waist, full hips and thighs

Curvy body types look great in dresses that define the waist. Dresses that will work best on your body type are wraps, shifts, A-lines and belted shirt dresses. Your height will determine how long your dress should be, so shorter women can get away with a little higher hemline.

posted by: tessa @ 1:31 PM

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