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Dressing for your body type is an absolute must if you want to step out looking your best. The good news about an athletic body is that your focus is on emphasis rather than hiding any flaws. You can embrace spaghetti straps and lightweight fabrics, unlike curvier girls who need extra support. And you can show off those toned or slender gams for maximum effect.
Athletic Figure Definition
Just in case you aren't sure, you're an athletic body type if you have little to no difference between the size of your hips and your waist. You are "straight up and down," and your shoulders are roughly the same width as the rest of your body. For women athletes, your shoulders might be a bit wider because of built-up muscles in the area. Your chest is petite and small, which isn't a bad thing when it comes to those diaphanous tops.
Pump Up Your Femininity
An athletic shape runs the risk of looking a tad masculine, so you'll want to wear clothing that is uber feminine. And you'll also want to create shape where it doesn't currently exist. Consider buying a padded or push-up bra to help fill out those tops. Embrace girly prints and colors, such as blue, pink and yellow with flower detail. Tops in sheer fabrics like chiffon or light-colored silk and satin are your go-to. If you're not into a padded bra, don't worry. An athletic girl can get away without wearing a bra at all, which means strapless tops and tiny little straps or backless numbers will look great on you.
Define Your Waist
Play with proportion and accessories to make a waist appear out of thin air. Fitted jackets that have a peplum (flared ruffle) bottom will draw the eye to your waist and hip area while adding some needed volume. Full skirts with movement should be paired with slim-fitting tops -- this goes for dresses too. For a night on the town, don't be afraid of a plunging neckline to show a bit of skin. Belts in contrasting or bright colors will break-up the line of sight to shorten a lengthy frame. Try a full skirt, a brown belt and a fitted crop top that shows an inch or two of your midriff for summer dalliances.
Other Considerations
While skirts and dresses will play up your femininity, you don't have to count pants out altogether. Try a wide-leg pant in a drapey fabric with a belt and fitted top, to create shape. Ruching is gathered fabric, and there are a lot of pieces that have it. Try a slim-fitting dress with ruching on the side to create a waist. Avoid wearing solid, dark colors if you don't want to appear too slim. If you like darker hues, try ones that have a print like polka dots.
