In the latest edition our Fashion Friday Challenge we tackle the touchy subject of creating a flattering wardrobe.  The first point that we need to get out of the way is that no matter what your shape or size is, you can still create a flattering wardrobe. Part of your wardrobe journey has to involve embracing who you are. No one is perfect, so your own appeal first centers around knowing that you are who you are for a reason. Embrace that and that confidence will automatically translate into fashion forward style.  Once you embrace who you are, the next steps to creating a flattering wardrobe revolves around several key style selections.  In previous posts we tackled the styles and colors that are must haves. Today we will tackle the specific pieces and characteristics that create a flattering wardrobe.

Creating a Great Fit

Know the Difference Between Fitted and Tight

There is a fine line between fitted and tight and it is important to never cross that line.  A fitted garment will help give you a smaller appearance but if you go too far the other direction then you create the dreaded muffin top which makes you look overweight even if you are not.  When choosing the top or bottom try on multiple sizes and be honest with yourself when looking in the mirror. Select the size that you are not the size that you want to be.

Look for Vertical Details

Look for garments with vertical details. Vertical details will elongate the body adding height if you are short like me or add a slimming appearance if you are looking to hide a few extra pounds.  Vertical details come in several options. You can choose a vertical pattern as an option for elongating the body or you can choose garments that have pronounced vertical seams as your preferred method of elongation.  Think along the lines of a tailored white dress shirt that has two vertical darts on either side of the bust line.

Select Appropriate Proportions

The goal of a flattering wardrobe is to create shape. Creating the best shape possible is the result of balancing proportion.  As a rule of thumb, you never pair two loose pieces or two tight pieces together. Two loose pieces will make you appear larger than you are while two tight pieces will make you look overweight even if you are not.  Proportion can be used to create an hourglass shape by pairing a fitted bottom with a loose top or vice versa.

Use Color and Prints to Your Advantage

Color and prints can be amazing style ammunition if used correctly. You must first decide what you want the end result of your pattern choice to be. If you are looking to camouflage a certain area then opt for a small all over pattern.  If however you are looking for a way to accentuate an asset then choose a bold pattern that will draw attention to that area.   When it comes to choosing color remember that darker colors are slimming so always have on hand a dark denim bottom as a wardrobe option.

Pick the Perfect Waistline

Try things on before you bring them home. It is important to look at the details of the garment and where they hit your body.  Your shirt should fall just below your natural waistline.  Avoid anything that cuts you off at the fullest part of your hip since it will widen you.

Linking With:

My Turn For Us     What Jean Likes     Friday Chaos     FPL     Create With Joy     AmBlog Design