by Catherine Scholze Flattering a curvy frame requires a combination of structured garments that support the shape of the body and good fitting lines that provide the correct amount of space for the curvy areas of the body. The structure of a garment refers to its ability to give the body a certain shape, and…
As I discussed here when I explained how lines work, body shape tells us: Where to put the verticals Where to put the horizontals to balance, broaden or highlight Where to place detail Where to keep boring/dull/plain/no detail That’s it! So let’s look at the H Shape (commonly called the rectangular or brick shape) Let’s…
Given the number of people who contact me asking about identifying their body shape (if you’re not sure what body shape you have, do the Body Shape Quiz to find out!), it’s obviously something that is considered to be an important factor in the whole “finding flattering clothing” issue that many women face. I’m…
So when I’m talking pants here I’m not talking about your underpants (panties or knickers, whatever you call them). I’m talking the best shape of trousers for your body shape! Best Shape of Trousers for Your Body Shape I shape You are straight and may describe your shape as boyish, so create some curves with…
I often get asked about the best shape garments for each body shape. So I thought I’d create this infographic for you to give you a simple set of guidelines. When thinking about shapes for each body shape, we are usually wanting to create the hourglass shape or the idea of two triangles stacked on…
I have a question about using the column of colour to look taller (as a curvy petite H shape ) – should I only wear darker tops, avoiding white or cream tops ? There are two major ways to wear a column of colour, on the outside, or on the inside. The version on the…
How to Choose the Right Length Necklace to Flatter Your Body The other day I was reading something that said that if you wear a longer pendant that ends under your bust, then you will draw attention to the narrowest point on your rib cage and this is flattering for all. Sadly this is not…
Choosing Collars and Lapels O/A shape – broader collars to balance hips I, V shape or petite – narrower/smaller collars not to further broaden shoulders or overwhelm your frame H, X, 8 shape – medium collars – higher will make you look taller, lower will draw attention to bust and make larger Large bust –…
Sleeves please – I’m a H/O shape, and always wonder if I should have my sleeves shortened as a full sleeve makes me look bigger. The shape of the sleeve that you wear can make you look larger or smaller, depending on where it ends (watch this video for tips on that topic) and also…
I’m often asked where to end your tops and jackets. In this video I give you some pointers to help you find your sweet spot that flatters your figure.
Recently I was asked what is the best place to end sleeves. When you think about a sleeve hem, it’s a horizontal line. Here in this short video I talk about where to end sleeves to flatter your figure.
Dear Imogen, I recently discovered your blog and enjoy reading it. I hope you could help me with a belt dilemma. I’m a petite H, however, I find it necessary to wear a belt with my jeans and pants, otherwise they move down to my hips and my tummy pops out. Sometimes my underwear also…
The air has become nippy these past few days and it made me think about winter coats. They are a more expensive item in your wardrobe, so if this year is a year you’re planning on updating your winter coat wardrobe here are a few tips to help you choose a flattering style. Here are…
If you don’t have a defined waist, but find dresses or cardigans that you like that come with a tie belt, this short video will show you how to do it best to flatter your figure. Tips for Belting an Undefined Waist Get more belting tips here.
It’s summer in the Northern hemisphere and if it’s actually hot (sadly summer isn’t always so hot everywhere), but if you need a new swimsuit and want some tips to flatter your body shape, as they are the most unforgiving of garments, then read on. Swimwear to Flatter Your Body Shape I shape – horizontal…
Hi Imogen, I am 5’0 and 120lb with a figure of eight shape. I am very short waisted (my waist is the smallest about 1.5 inches from the bottom of my bust). So I’ve been wearing shirts untucked with a belt as I have a little bit of a belly. The only thing is, it…
If you are a busy mum and spend much of your time in practical clothing like a knit top with a pair of jeans, how do you dress it up to make it more stylish whilst still remaining practical? Accessories are key … let me show you how. When my daughter was 4 years old…
I was asked by a reader the other day for help choosing winter coats. Here are a few tips. Clockwise from top left: Show off a defined waist with a belted coat like a trench – great for X, A and 8 shapes. If you are petite, keep your coat knee length or shorter and…
I was asked the other day by a reader where are the defining points to figure out body shape. How to Define Your Body Shape Is it bust, waist and hips, shoulders waist and hips and where are the hips defined from – the thigh or up on the buttock area? For me (and I’m sure there…
People always ask me where the best point is to end their tops and jackets. As the hem of a top creates a horizontal line, the best place is on a narrow point, rather than a wide point. If you are a body shape that has wider hips/thighs than waist, A, X, H, 8 (or…
If you’re like me and like to wear a cardi when it’s a little nippy, how to choose one to flatter your figure? How to Choose a Flattering Cardigan Clockwise from top left The stripy cardigan is great for I shapes, the wide stripes will add curves as will the pocket detail which will add…
