Selecting Your Figure
Since everyone comes in different body sizes and shapes, we all need to learn what to wear
and what to avoid in order to best flatter our body shape. It can be hurtful to stand in front of
a mirror and look at our own body flaws trying to determine the body shape, but it is a
necessary step. Note to thought: No one has a "perfect" body; I have met many women who
are ready to tell you exactly what they don't like about their bodies.
It is extremely important to determine our body type - first and foremost- as it helps us to
visualize a certain shape; then, we chose what to wear to best suit our body shape, making
therefore, the most of our body by creating an illusion of a well balanced figure.
The most important thing to analyze first is the body shape we currently have: keep in mind
that it has nothing to do with size, it's all about proportions. All body types come in a mix of
fuller and slimmer shapes.
Read over the characteristics of each body type. If one seems to fit your body type, click on the
title to read further.
Busty Figure
Characteristics include:
- Bra size is a "C" cup or larger
- Small, narrow hips
- Below waist is small,
average size
- May have short waist (less
than 7" in length)
#1 Rule
No shirred fabrics, ruffles or
details between the décolleté and
the waistline. Stick with solid,
sleek pieces to avoid attention to
the chest.
"Fashion is architecture: it is a matter of proportions." -Coco Chanel
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Copyright 2008 © Dress Your Body Type. All rights reserved.
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Pear Shape
Characteristics include:
- Small upper body
- May have small or narrow
shoulders
- Large bottom and hips,
wider than shoulders
#1 Rule
Never wear horizontal lines below
the waist, only above the waistline.
Tall & Slim
Characteristics include:
- Straight and narrow from
shoulders to hips
- Taller than 5'7"
- May have little to no curve in
the waistline
- Long arms and legs
- May be thick waisted in some
cases
#1 Rule
Never wear anything too baggy or
full. Show off that slim figure!
Never look like you're ready for a
flood!
Full & Curvy Figure
Characteristics include:
- Shoulders and hips a line
evenly.
- Waist curves in like an
hourglass shape.
- Hips and bust are full and
voluptuous.
#1 Rule
No horizontal stripes!
Petite
Characteristics include:
- Below 5'3'' in height
- Small framed and small
proportioned
- Desire to wear sophisticated
pieces that elongate your
frame
#1 Rule
Find a tailor you love and take in
every piece.
Curvy Petite Figure
Characteristics includes:
- Some of the same
characteristics as a curvy
figure with exception... You
are under 5'4'' in height.
- You have full bust and hips.
- Your goal is not to look
short and heavy. You want
clothes to elongate your
figure.
- You want clothes that slim
your curves instead of
drawing too much attention
to them.
#1 Rule
Try to stay away from big and
bold prints and patterns that over
power your petite frame.