April 3, 2008

What's your body type?


In my depths of boredome (and shopping withdrawal) I've been doing some research on my body type in preparation for my next clothing spending spree. Turns out that all signs point to the fact that I am an apple (aka "Oval" Frame). My new goal is to dress to be comfy and accentuate my good traits. I may even take some courses on this topic...

A FRAME: Bottom Heavy, Small Bust, Carries weight in upper thights, Usually not thick in the waist.

Goal: to balance hips by widening shoulders with shoulder pads.

How To Dress: Add weight to shoulders, horizontal necklines, shoulder pads a must, epaulets, full sleave at shoulder, breast pockets (if small breasted), texture above waist, pattern above waist, no detail below waist, smooth, simple pants and skirts, minimum texture below waist, soft gathers in frotn of skirt, avoid crisp fabrics below the waist.

V FRAME: Shoulders 2 or more inches wider than hips, large bust, very narrow hips, thin legs.

Goal: Widen hips with fuller and heavier material.

How to Dress: vertical necklines, minimal shoulder padding, simple lines, minimal texture above waist, pockets at hips, full sleeve at wrist, texture/pattern below waist, borders at hem, longer length sweaters, tunic tops over slim skirts, tucked in blouses (if slim), belts (if slim), blouson tops.

H FRAME: Average to large waist, Athletic Build, Straight up and down shape, Shoulders are broader, not much of a derriere.

Goal: Give illusion of smaller waist. Avoid busy or skimpy lines and patterns.

How to Dress: narrow belts, matching wide belts (if slim), hip wrap tops, long over the hip sweaters, elongated lines in patter styles and accessories, straight lines; v-necks, smooth to nubby textures, never end jacket at waist, never wear small horizontal lines on top that are tucked in at waist, pants and skirts with minimal gathers, pressed down pleats.

8 FRAME: Average Height, Average Bust, Hips and Bust Same Size, Waist up to 10 inches smaller (I wish!), normally gains weight all over.

Goal: Emphasize figure 8. If large, keep dress simple and flowing.

How to Dress: soft curved shoulder pads, detail and interest above waist,simple waist emphasis, torso wraps, avoid straight darts, soft prints/designs, v and scoop necklines, no breast pockets, avoid clingy/too tight tops, no hard or stiff fabrics, avoid loose baggy tops, waist or hipbone length jackets, soft structure, shaped one-piece dressing.

OVAL FRAME: Short to average height, Large Bust, Waist area rounded, Normally gains weight in the middle area, Legs thin.

Goal: De-emphasize waistline.

How to Dress: create unbroken vertical line, nothing tight above tunic tops, oversized long tunic tops, long sweaters, tops over tapered pants/tights/leggings, tops always loose, long necklaces, vertical lines on top, match colors or tops and bottoms, avoid tucked in blouses, one color suits, avoid belts, dropped waistline dresses.

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