What is your Body Type? Body Types are determined by your underlying geometry, for instance I am considered a Full Hourglass. Due to my fuller bust and wider hips I need to wear fitted but not tight, body skimming silhouettes that create balance without adding volume.

Once you determine your own body type, apply the following principles in selecting looks that will create balance and the most flattering silhouettes for you.

General Body Types:

Inverted Triangle: If you have broader shoulders, a narrow waist and smaller legs you are an Inverted Triangle Body Type. The key to dressing to flatter your shape is to balance your broader shoulders, chest and back with your narrower lower body to create more of an hourglass effect. This is achieved by choosing clothes that add curves to your hips and bottom while creating a more defined waist.

• Look for tops with narrow v-necks and nipped in waists that flare slightly at the hip.
• Shirts with deep scoop or V-necks narrow your upper body, if you are small breasted or conservative, make the look more modest with a contrast colored cami.
• Look for deep V-neck wrap style tops. A little flare below the waist will help add curves to your hips.
• Wear deep shawl collared or lightly cowled tops, particularly in dark colors with a light shell underneath.
• Look for shirts with vertical details on the upper body. A nipped-in waist and flared bottom will add curves to your hips.
• Look for jackets with deep V-necklines, a nipped-in waist and flared bottom or hip pocket details.

Rectangle, Straight or Column: If your shoulders, waist and hips have a similar width with no discernible waist, you are a Rectangle Body Type. The key to dressing a Straight body type is to proportionally dress the top and bottom of your body while enhancing your waist. If you are comfortable doing so, you can wear form fitting clothing and create a waist by adding a wide, dark belt. To create a more curvaceous effect add volume (or the illusion of volume) proportionally to your upper and lower body by wearing an A-line silhouette or flared trousers.

• Tops with nipped or belted waists.
• Off the shoulder, boat-neck tops, wide V or U necks.
• Structured shoulders, princess or flutter sleeves.
• Embellishments around the bust and shoulders.
• Tops that are full, ruched or flowing around the bust.

Round or Apple: If your shoulder and hips are narrower than your midsection you are a Round Body Type. Best practices for dressing the Round body type are to de-emphasize your midsection and create a more defined waist. This is achieved by choosing clothing that adds curves and fullness to your lower body and tops that taper to create a waist. If you have amazing legs feel free to play with skirt lengths, but don’t go too short otherwise you will create a top-heavy look.

• Tops with nipped or belted waists.
• Square, wide V or U necks.
• Wrap style tops and jackets.
• Tops with vertical details.
• Tops that flare at the hip.

Triangle: If your shoulders and upper body are narrower than your waist and hips you are a Triangle Body Type. When dressing a Triangle body type try to draw attention to your upper body while de-emphasizing your tummy and hips to give a more balanced appearance and create the illusion of an hourglass figure. If your legs are one of your best assets, feel free to play with skirt lengths and show them off!

• Tops with nipped or fitted waists.
• Off the shoulder, boat-neck tops, wide V or U necks.
• Structured shoulders, princess or flutter sleeves.
• Embellishments around the bust and shoulders.
• Bright colors and bold patterns.

Neat Hourglass: If your shoulders and hips are the same width with a smaller waist then you are an Hourglass Body Type. Balance is the goal when dressing the Hourglass body type, you want proportionally dress the top and bottom of your body while accentuating your waist. Wide belts over shirts and dresses are a great way to show off your waist. You can create an even more curvaceous effect by adding a bit of volume to your upper and lower body, but always try to maintain balance since it is your best asset. If you have great legs feel free to play with skirt lengths.

• Belted tops.
• Tops with banding or nipping at the waist.
• Form-fitting tops.
• Wrap-style tops.
• Tailored shirts and jackets.

Full Hour Glass (Plus): If your shoulders and bust are larger than your hips and your waist is the most narrow part of your body you are a Full Hour Glass Body Type. The key to dressing a Top Heavy Hourglass body type is to balance your lower body with your ample bust while accentuating your waist. This is achieved by selecting clothing cuts that will fill out your lower half. If you have great legs, feel free to play with skirt lengths. 

• Look for tops with narrow v-necks. This will help to visually narrow your bust. Stay away from tight tops with high or wide necklines.
• Fly-away cardigans with draping down the front minimizes your bust. A dark cardigan with a light-colored shell is particularly flattering.
• Narrow shawl collars draw attention towards the center of your body making your bust appear smaller. Look for fitted or tailored bodies to show off your waist.
• Dress shirts with deep-V collars visually narrows your bust. Choose tops with tailored waists that show off your hourglass figure.
• Wrap tops with deep V-necks and simple sleeves create a bust minimizing effect while showing off your hourglass shape. Tops should wrap at your natural waistline.
• Jackets with deep V-necklines, a nipped-in waist and slightly flared bottom help balance your upper and lower body. Jackets that hit at the hip bone are most flattering.

I hope this information assists you in learning how to best dress for your Body Type, please let me know if you have any questions in the comments below!

I am a professional Hair and Wardrobe Stylist and Personal Shopper. I love accessories and tend toward bold colors, statement jewelry, funky bags and I have a bit of a shoe problem, like seriously I need rehab. I get a lot of “where’d you get that” and styling questions so I finally decided to start a fashion blog. This blog is for anyone who is interested in great deals, unique pieces and a new take on what’s “hot”. The theme of the blog is loving yourself, and feeling your best at any age, size or budget. I love to shop but I am terminally frugal (my husband would say cheap, but I am definitely not cheap). I like nice things, I just refuse to pay retail so a lot of my looks will incorporate a healthy mix of price points, in other words, there will be something for every budget, age and size.

Stats: I am 40 years old, 5’10” and plus sized, I range from a 12-16 depending on the manufacturer/ cut…sigh. lol

With that out of the way, I’d like to share how I make trends work for me now that I am “of a certain age” (not to mention size).  I hope it inspires other women who love fashion, and maybe feel they are outside the age/size demographic that most trends are aimed at, to try new things.

DaStylist tips for creating the look you want:

SHOP YOUR CLOSET: You probably have the basis of a great wardrobe hidden under all the stuff you’ve purchased but never worn (Law of Five: see this post on basic wardrobe staples if you’re in need of a refresh).

SPLURGE ON BASICS, SAVE ON TRENDS: If you buy great basics they will translate from season to season and you can update/style your looks with great on trend pieces and accessories. I typically buy my accessories off season, or when they’re on sale, because there’s nothing worse than spending a ton of money on something that you only wear a few times before it’s obsolete.

NEVER PAY RETAIL: I. Don’t. Do. Full Price, unless it’s something unbelievably amazing and I’m afraid they’ll sell out. Unless I am looking for something specific (and sometimes even then), I always start my shopping trips at the clearance rack. You’ll never know what great deals you’re missing out on if you bypass sale racks. In fact, some of my best, most expensive finds have come for 70% off. If you are a brand loyalist, make sure you sign up for FREE rewards programs and coupons, and if you shop in a particular store frequently make it a point to become acquainted with the staff for discretionary discounts and advance notice on sales.

Last thing about me, while I LOVE styling, I HATE to be in front of the camera so this blog has been a challenge… bear with me. #imnotamodel

Khaki

Jacket: Free People, Cargo Pants: Ralph Lauren , Clutch: Target, Tank, Belt and Sandals: Charlotte Russe

Bohemian 

Crop Top: H&M, Double Split Maxi Skirt: BCBG, Clutch: BCBG, Wedges: Steve Madden

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuit: Lily Pulitzer for Target, Bag: Target, Sandals: Nine West

70’s Inspired Denim

Tunic: H&M, Flared Trouser Jeans: Banana Republic, Clutch: Coach, Platforms: DV8 Dolce Vita

Romantic 

Lace Shift Dress: Nicole Miller, Espadrilles: Merona, Clutch: Coach

Nautical

Cropped Boatneck: H&M, High Waisted Pant: H&M, Handbag: orYany, Mules: Sam Edelman

Ballerina

Camisole: H&M, Midi Skirt: H&M, Clutch: Banana Republic, Sandals: Jessica Simpson

Mix and Match

Maxi Shirt: H&M, White Tank and Cropped Pants: JC Penney’s, Tote: Kate Spade, Sandals: Jessica Simpson

Sheer

Kimono: Free People, Cigarette Pant: BCBG, Handbag: Kate Spade, Sandals: Charlotte Russe

Vintage

Shift Dress: Target, Handbag: Kate Spade, Espadrilles: UGG

Pop Art

Printed Tank and Palazzo Pant: Bisou Bisou, Clutch: Lulu Giunness, Sandals: Nine West

Mesh

Mesh Tee: Liz Claiborne, Laser Cut Faux Leather Skirt: Piperlime (RIP), Corset Belt: BCBG, Clutch: Urban Expressions

These looks were inspired by the Vogue Top 20 Trends for Spring/ Summer 2015. I hope you got some fun ideas on how to “shop your closet”, and add a few seasonal items to create something new and fresh!

Peace and Blessings!

The perfect wardrobe is a topic so subjective that no one can offer the definitive list, but I have created a system of 5 categories for my styling clients that I’d love to share with you. This is just a guideline, in order to have a complete wardrobe you will need to reduce or expand some categories based on your lifestyle.  Remember, no one can dictate YOUR personal style but this is a resource you can reference when you’re editing your closet, shopping for seasonal pieces or want to update/refresh your look.

1.Tops:

Tees and Layering Tanks: Make sure you invest in some great basic knits in several colors, I recommend white, black, and grey to start. I would also get multiple styles of these relatively inexpensive pieces in different cuts, finishes and fabrics, for example: a silk knit fitted tee has a totally different look and feel from a slouchy, slub knit boyfriend tee, try on several styles to know what’s most flattering for your body type.

White Button Up: When you find a great oxford I recommend buying at least 2, because it’s an essential, 4 season, wear with anything look you’ll reach for again and again and nothing is worse than a dingy white shirt. If you have a larger bust, and can’t ever find shirts that fit without pulling across the bust there are several designers addressing that issue, but with prices up to $195.00 a shirt they can be a bit too rich for my blood.

DaStylist Tip: If you have a large bust, but want to try this look for less, buy a shirt large enough for your bust and have it altered to fit your torso at your local dry cleaners/ tailor.

Silk blouse: Whether printed or solid, a classic silk blouse is timeless and versatile enough to be worn with a suit, skirt or jeans.

Cashmere or Fine Gauge Knit Sweater or Cardigan: Depending on your location a finely woven sweater can be worn year round, they’re perfect for layering in cold temps and can be casually draped over your shoulders to fight the evening chill in warmer months.

Black Dress: A black dress, whether it’s a structured sheath or flowing silk slip is a quintessential part of any well dressed woman’s wardrobe. With the correct styling a LDB is appropriate for virtually any occasion. 

2. Bottoms

Tailored Black Pant: A great fitting black pant is the basis for so many looks whether you style them up with heels and a great blouse or down with flats and a tee.

Pencil or A-line skirt: Although, skirt hemlines can run the gamut from micro mini, to floor grazing maxi the most universally flattering lengths hit just above or below the knee.

Skinny, trouser or bootcut jeans: Most women know a great pair of jeans can be worn anywhere from the office to Date Night, just make sure you are mindful of your employers dress code and/or the appropriate dress for the occasion. A great rule of thumb for work is to stick to darker denim with no distressing, outside of that choose the hue and cut that works best for your body type.

Casual Pant: Casual pants can be any length from capri, cropped ankle, to full length. Since they are casual they can be any color, print or fabrication, but keep in mind your proportions when choosing the right pair or you.

Black or khaki shorts: Shorts are not essential but they can be a great addition to your wardrobe. They come in varying lengths to suit almost any taste and can be dressed up or down.

Jackets: 

Black suit jacket or blazer: A black blazer can be paired with black pants or a skirt to create a suit, layered over a dress, or be worn to dress up jeans and a tee.

Fitted Leather Moto Jacket: A newer but widely embraced essential that’s appropriate as a layering piece for work in a business casual environment, and can be worn with just about any other silhouette to bring some edge to a dressy look or elevate a casual look.

Denim Jacket: A great casual layering piece that can be worn year round, in some climates.

Trench Coat: This classic wardrobe staple is perfect for dressy or casual looks, and can be found in an array or colors and fabrications.

Seasonal Coat: For colder climes a seasonal or winter coat is essential, everywhere else it’s a statement. From wool coats to down parkas your seasonal coat can be as diverse as your tastes, just make sure it provides appropriate protection for your climate.

Shoes:

Classic Pump or Stiletto: A black or brown pump will carry just about any look, and now nude is considered the new neutral.

Tall Shaft Leather Boot: A great pair of boots can be worn with dresses, skirts, jeans or even shorts.

Flats: From classic ballet styles to pointed toes to jewel encrusted or velvet slippers, flats are having a resurgence and showing women that they don’t have to wear heels to be sexy or stylish.

Summer Sandals: A great leather sandal, wedge or espadrille is the perfect accompaniment to your warm weather looks.

Sneakers: Whether you work out religiously or are a certified sneaker freak, every woman should own at least one pair of sneakers.

Accessories:

Leather Everyday Handbag: This is where you should splurge, that doesn’t mean break the bank, but a well made, genuine leather handbag is an investment that will pay for itself over the life of the piece.

Evening Clutch: A great clutch is perfect for dressing up on nights out or traveling light. Choose a neutral style and color to get the most use.

Diamond Stud earrings: Diamonds are indeed a Girl’s Best Friend! Even if you don’t wear another single piece of jewelry, a classic diamond (or budget friendly crystal) stud will lend some sparkle to your face and is appropriate with any look.

Watch: A Leather, silver or gold tone watch is a fashionable and functional accessory you should incorporate into your wardrobe.

Silk Scarf: If you are not a jewelry wearer, but you want to add some color or interest to a look, add an artfully tied scarf, it’s classic, chic, and trendy all at the same time.

DaStylist Tip! Always create (and stick to) a budget, whether it’s a monthly, quarterly or seasonal budget, adhering to a predetermined spending amount will keep you from overspending and impulse buys.

Plan for large purchases, if you need a coat, new handbag, or wardrobe overhaul try to time your purchase around your favorite retailers friends and family, rewards, seasonal, semi or annual sales. #neverpayretail

Be YOURSELF, no matter what trend is popular, or what any magazine says, the best looks are always the ones that flatter your body type and make you feel great!

Much like beautiful architecture, every flawlessly finished outfit starts with a strong foundation, and the proper bra is the cornerstone of that foundation. Unlike underwear, which most have in abundance (albeit in various stages of wearability… period panties anyone) a great fitting bra can be as elusive as a unicorn. Most of us have a drawer full of bras, but closer examination might reveal that although you have a plethora of options, you never grab the ones in the back and you are constantly wearing the same 3-4 bra styles/ types. I recommend that women have at least 7-10 properly fitted bras in their rotation, this allows for 2 weeks of wear with daily swaps and the occasional laundry day lapse. Body heat and other factors like perspiration can cause your bra to stretch so it’s recommended that you alternate daily, this allows the bra to return to it’s normal shape and air out so it’s fresh for the next wear. After wearing twice, launder bras by handwashing or use the delicate cycle and line dry, as excessive dryer temps can break down the delicate fabric.

I’ve compiled a list of the most commonly needed styles here:

T-shirt Bra: This workhorse style typically has a smooth finish that can be padded or unpadded and looks great with tees, knits, fitted silhouettes and sweaters.

Save!

Splurge!

Plus!

Strapless Bra: A supportive strapless bra is a necessary addition to any lingerie wardrobe. This bra is essential for strapless styles, spaghetti straps and off the shoulder looks.

Save!

Splurge!

Plus!

Multi Way: Perfect for every top from halters, and asymmetrical/ one shoulder looks, to racerback or criss cross back styles.

Save! 

Splurge!

Plus!

Deep Plunge, Demi or Push Up: Most guys favorite, these bras are perfect for sexy silhouettes, plunging necklines and showcasing your décolletage.

Save! 

Splurge!

Plus!

Sports Bra: With today’s healthy lifestyles it’s imperative that you have a well-made, supportive sports bra for working out, or high impact activities.

Save! 

Splurge!

Plus!

Honorable Mentions:

Minimizer: Perfect for larger busted ladies, these full coverage bras will take 1-2 inches off your bust line.

Deal!

Long line bras or corsets: Great for full bust and torso support and overall slimming in the midsection, perfect for bridal and formal looks.

Deal! 

Backless Bra or Breast Petals: Perfect for plunging and backless looks.

Deal! 

Bralette: A great option for the peekaboo bra trend that’s picking up steam, especially great with summer’s delicate tanks and summer dresses.

Deal!

Stylist Tip! The BEST way to ensure a great fit with any bra is to get a professional bra fitting. Most lingerie or major department stores offer this service for free in their Intimates Department, or you can measure yourself. Take a look at this YouTube tutorial for an informative, visual lesson on bra fitting.

Peace and Blessings!