Dress To Impress: A Chic Guide To Flattering Your Figure
BY ELM JOURNALISTS
FEBRUARY/2025
Dressing for Your Body Type
Fashion is all about self-expression, but let’s be real—finding clothes that fit well and flatter your shape can feel like a never-ending puzzle. We’ve all had that moment in a fitting room where something looks stunning on the hanger but completely misses the mark when we try it on. The key to effortless style isn’t about following every trend—it’s about understanding your body shape and knowing what works best for you.
Embrace What You’ve Got
First things first: there’s no such thing as an "ideal" body type. Every shape is beautiful, and fashion should be about celebrating your natural silhouette, not changing it. The trick is to highlight your best features while creating balance. Whether you have killer curves, long legs, or a naturally athletic build, dressing well is about playing to your strengths.
The Curvy Queen
If your waist is naturally defined and your bust and hips are well-balanced, you’ve got an enviable hourglass figure. The best way to accentuate your curves is to go for fitted styles that hug your shape in all the right places. Wrap dresses, belted tops, and high-waisted pants are your best friends. A structured blazer can add polish without hiding your shape, and body-skimming fabrics will enhance your natural proportions.
What to avoid? Anything too oversized or shapeless. Baggy clothes can hide your figure rather than flatter it, so don’t be afraid to show off those curves.
The Pear Perfection
If your hips are wider than your shoulders, you probably fall into the pear-shaped category. The key here is balance—adding volume to your upper half while keeping things sleek below the waist. Off-the-shoulder tops, statement sleeves, and detailed necklines can draw the eye upwards, while A-line skirts and bootcut jeans create a flattering shape on the bottom.
Dark-colored pants or skirts can help streamline your lower half, and structured jackets that hit above the hip can create a beautifully balanced look. On the flip side, ultra-tight bottoms might overemphasize the hips, so opting for flowy or structured pieces can create a more harmonious silhouette.
The Effortless Apple
For those with a broader upper body and a less-defined waist, the goal is to create shape and elongate the torso. V-neck tops and wrap dresses are a game-changer, drawing attention downward and creating a naturally slimming effect. Flowy, empire-waist tops and dresses give the illusion of a defined waist without clinging too much.
Soft, drapey fabrics work wonders, while anything too tight around the midsection can feel restrictive. Instead of boxy tops, try pieces with ruching or subtle cinching that offer shape without feeling uncomfortable.
The Sleek and Athletic
If your shoulders, waist, and hips are fairly aligned, you likely have a naturally straight or athletic figure. The goal here is to add curves and definition. Peplum tops, belted dresses, and ruffled details can create the illusion of curves, while layering—like a cropped jacket over a fitted dress—adds dimension.
Play with textures and patterns to add visual interest, and don’t be afraid of high-waisted styles, which can create the appearance of a more defined waist. What to skip? Boxy cuts that don’t give your body any shape. Instead, opt for pieces that create softness and movement.
The Bold and Beautiful Inverted Triangle
If you have broad shoulders with a narrower waist and hips, your shape is naturally striking. The trick is to balance your upper and lower halves by adding volume to your bottom half. Wide-leg pants, flared skirts, and flowy fabrics can create a softer look, while V-necks and deeper necklines help draw the eye downward.
Soft, draped fabrics work well on top, while structured, tailored bottoms add definition where needed. The one thing to avoid? Anything that adds extra bulk to the shoulders—think shoulder pads, high necklines, or boxy cuts that emphasize the top half too much.
Final Thoughts: Style Is About Confidence
At the end of the day, the most important thing about fashion isn’t what’s "flattering" or "trendy"—it’s how you feel when you step out the door. The right outfit should make you feel like the best version of yourself, whether you’re rocking a form-fitting dress, an oversized blazer, or your favorite pair of jeans.
Tailoring is your secret weapon—no matter your body type, a well-fitted outfit always looks better than something that’s just "good enough." And most importantly, fashion rules are meant to be broken. If you love something and feel amazing in it, wear it with confidence.
Because the best thing you can wear? A little self-love and a whole lot of attitude.
PAGES YOU MAY LIKE
