Most people do not understand their own body type and because of this fact, are unable to confidently choose styles that complement, rather than compete with their body style.
First you need to know which body type you are:
STRAIGHT BODY TYPE: Bust and hips are basically the same size; waist is slightly smaller than the bust and hips. Important to remember: Proportional dressing is key for top and bottom, while accentuating the waistline.
PEAR BODY TYPE: Hips are larger than the bust, and waist gradually slopes out to the hips. Important to remember: Enhance and add illusion of volume to upper body, emphasize waist and de-emphasize lower body.
HOURGLASS BODY TYPE: Bust and hips are basically the same size and waist is well defined. Important to remember: Proportionally dress the top and bottom of your body while accentuating your waist. Add volume equally to maintain balance.
SPOON BODY TYPE: Hips are larger than the bust and the hips have a ‘shelf’ appearance. The waist is slightly smaller than the bust. Important to remember: Draw attention to the upper body and de-emphasize tummy and hips for a lovely balance look.
INVERTED TRIANGLE BODY TYPE: Bust is large, hips are narrow and the waist is not very well defined. Important to remember: Balance your broad shoulders, chest and back with lower body to create the illusion of an hour glass shape.
If you are still unsure of your body shape, consider booking a one-on-one stylist session with a NICHE style expert. Or input your body measurements here to find your body shape:
Here are a few tricks to help you dress your body type from NICHE Editor in Chief, Tracey Drake:
- Pear shape… Boot cut dark trousers or dark washed jeans with a slight flare from the knee is flattering. Minimal pockets and no bling. Try an A-line skirt that hits at the knee and with a slight flare at the bottom. Patterns on bottom should be small and balance with bold solid colours on top.
- Skinny jeans or pants. Perfect for a boyish or curvy figure. However, if you are bottom heavy, look for a cut with a modest leg opening instead of the traditional cigarette pant cuff.
- Almost any silhouette can look good on almost any body type if it is scaled properly, with the right colour and pattern proportion. Larger body frame? Think THIN. Smaller body frame? Think VOLUME. Garments with a lot of materials, drawstring or elastic waist – these add volume. Structured, fitted jackets take off pounds.
- Cropped Pants – Be very mindful of the length. If you are short, try for a length that hits just above the calf to elongate your leg. For very long legs, go for an above the angle length for a long, lean and modern look.
- Skirt hems and shoes… be mindful of your skirt length. If you are under 5’5” never wear a skirt that hits you mid calf. It cuts off the visual eye. Also, never wear full length unless the silhouette is streamlined. Shoes – pointed toe elongates the leg, t-strap cuts the leg size off.
The Life+Style Program is a unique program by NICHE magazine and atHOME magazine – exclusive to The Bay Centre. Throughout the year, watch for signature lifestyle series, Lunch & Learn sessions, fashion show/exhibits, celebrity guests, home decor and lifestyle how-to’s and other fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle events.
- LIFE+STYLE EVENT CALENDAR – See upcoming signature events and reserve tickets
- WORK WITH A NICHE STYLIST – Learn about and book an appointment
