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Misconceptions Part I

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Fashion is generally misconstrued by the general public, as it is a subject not widely understood and researched enough. People have the terrible tendency to dismiss it as just another way to separate and stereotype other people, when in fact fashion is (in my opinion) another language, another medium of expression.

One terrible opinion on fashion and clothing (and the topic of this week) is:

Clothes Look Better on Skinny Frames

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.
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No matter what your figure, you will look good, if you know what to wear!

You see, its not your figure or your shape the problem. The problem is finding clothes that will show your body in the best light. 

Skinny girls and curvy girls will look terrible in ill-fitting clothes and cuts. It has nothing to do with figure.

Got that?

I think that fashion bloggers have greatly contributed to the 'democratisation' (if you will) of fashion by simply posting outfits of themselves. Gorgeous outfits in the 'real' world, no matter your figure, or sex (more of that next week.)

I am a huge fan of Nadia Aboulhosen. I think that she really is one of the pioneers in showing that there is an art to dressing for your figure.



Rumi Neely is another blogger who is a master of composing outfits that look awesome on her skinny frame:




No matter what your figure, you will look awesome. It's all about discovering your style, finding (because there are very few people that are either super skinny or curvy all over, most of us are halfway, with different body types) the cuts and shapes that work best for you.

A few guidelines to help you on the way:

Feminine clothes that enhance the famed 'hourglass' figure are always desirable
Formfitting dresses and skirts, cut diagonally or on the bias
Cinched at the waist, hug the hips, and fall loosely over your thighs and calves
A-line shapes will move the attention away from the lower half of your body
When wearing A-line shapes make sure that whatever you wear on top is slim and cut close to the body to better balance a fuller-cut lower half.
A dress with a belt will cinch you in, focusing attention on your smaller waist.

I prefer straight leg jeans to any other type, as you are always guaranteed that your legs will look lengthened (skinny jeans that end a little above the ankle can  make the leg look unflatteringly cropped).

Black is flattering, but it's definitely not your only option. Colour blocking in tonal colours in a classic palette can deliciously proportion an outfit. Brights and prints should be used in the right places, to focus on where you want to draw attention to.

Stuck in a rut? Semi-fitted styles work wonders-they mould the top half and are looser at the bottom. A perfect go-to: the wrap dress.

Keep necklines open. A deep V- or scoop neck lengthens your neck.

Draping is extremely flattering when done properly. Only wear one draped piece at a time, keep it simple. If it looks like its hanging without any form, don't wear it. A good drape will highlight the most flattering parts of your body and hide the others at the same time.

Shorter, fitted jackets will flatter both your legs and waist.

If you are fuller figured, my best advice would be to stay away from anything large, loose and boxy. Structured and tailored pieces are the way to go. Don't hide your body! Avoid heavy, large prints and details such as ruffles.

For petite girls, avoid prints that cover the entirety of a particular piece, or that have too many detail. You will look swamped. Instead, opt for rich fabrics (preferably at night) such as velvet and brocade which will add definition to any outfit, but avoid weighing yourself down at all costs.

For boyish figures, the best way to create curves and define your figure would to accentuate your waist to create the illusion of a fuller bust and hips.
Belts, ruching, and an effective mix of colour will help create a fuller figure. Texture is also key-combine a couple of fabrics to add definition and layers to the silhouette. 
It's all in the details-ruffles, pleats, prints, peplums and the like add volume, but don't forget to balance it out by pairing one detailed half of your body with a simpler, more streamlined other half (top or bottom).

Have an awesome week and weekend and rock that outfit!
xoxo
Alex

Email: stylemauritius@live.com

Twitter:@stylemauritius










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