Have you ever wondered why you feel amazing in some outfits, while others simply do not feel right? The secret lies in understanding how to dress for your shape in a way that you love. You don’t need to follow a strict set of rules; you just need to know how to put together outfits that fit and flatter your body.
It’s Not Your Body, It’s the Clothes
First and foremost, there is NEVER anything wrong with your body. If you’re not happy with what you see in the mirror, it might be because you are picking clothes that do not flatter your shape or perhaps putting them together in a way that doesn’t work best for you. The key is to understand your body and dress it in a way that highlights your best features.
Know Your Shape, Know Your Style
Knowing what you like, what suits you, and practising what works for you is power. There are countless silhouettes and types of clothing that will flatter your body. You don’t need to hide or stick to the same combination all the time. Dressing should be enjoyable and can be your armour. Taking time to reflect on your wardrobe and understanding what works for you can lead to those “aha” moments in how you want to dress.
Start with Self-Reflection
Many of us have pieces in our wardrobe that we love. Have you ever taken a moment to analyse why you love them? Success leaves clues. Look at those pieces and identify what makes them special. Is it the fit, the colour, or the comfort? Understanding these aspects can guide you in making future purchases that you’ll truly love.
Confidence and Self-Empowerment
When was the last time you felt truly confident in your style? When did you feel beautiful? What were you doing? For many, these moments are linked to special occasions. But why limit that feeling to rare events? Imagine feeling that way every day. If you can’t remember a time you felt this way, or if you’ve never felt truly confident, ask yourself: do you want to change that? Life is passing by right now, and we owe it to ourselves to feel happy and confident.
Learning the Rules to Break Them
I believe that understanding how to dress for your body should be taught in school. (I’m only half-joking!). Every woman should know and understand these fundamental things before jumping to conclusions. While style and fashion can be about breaking the rules and expressing yourself, some of us want to know the rules first before we break them. This is where I can help.
Practical Steps to Elevate Your Style
- Audit Your Wardrobe: Pull out everything and take a good look. Notice the pieces you wear often and those that still have tags on them.
- Make a List: Keep a pen and paper next to your wardrobe. As you go through your clothes, make a list of what your wardrobe is missing.
- Take Photos: Regularly take photos of your list. When you’re shopping, refer back to these photos. This will remind you of what you actually need rather than buying another piece that doesn’t complement your existing wardrobe.
- Understand Fit and Proportions: Use the rule of thirds to balance your outfits. Divide your body into three equal parts to create visually appealing and balanced looks.
- Create Illusions with Clothing: High-waisted pants can elongate your legs, and darker colours on the bottom can create a slimming effect.
By understanding and addressing the gaps in your wardrobe, you can make smarter shopping decisions, save money, and feel confident in your style choices. Remember, it’s not about having a lot of clothes but having the right clothes that work for you.
For more personalised styling advice, consider our Virtual Personal Styling service.
Nichola xx