Photo: Digital Vision/Digital Vision/Getty Images
Not sure how to play up your best assets and minimize a wider lower half? Your curves should be noticed for how glamorous they are, not how wrong you look in your clothing. Pick the perfect shirt each and every time for your pear-shaped body, and flatter your figure with expert style tips for looking your best.
Rule of Thumb
Before you head out shopping, follow the sound advice of Jovanna Reyes, personal stylist to plus-size women, on how to pick out the perfect shirt for your beautiful shape. "The pear-shaped woman, especially if she is fuller figured, must wear blouses that bring attention to her top and widen her shoulders," recommends Reyes. Pear shapes are one of the few body types that can get away with wearing the masculine styling seen on the runways of Chanel and Hermes. The stronger shoulder accents keep the eye focused on top and give the body a more hourglass look by balancing the wider bottom. For the more feminine styles, a bright-color top with bow ties at the neck or eye-catching prints will also help to take the attention away from the curvier bottoms.
Balancing Act
Longer, flowy tunics flatter pear-shaped bodies and are able to even out proportions. Paired with dark skinny jeans or leggings, you’ve got a great figure-flattering ensemble. Try looks recommended by Keith Fulsher chief merchandising officer of Dress Barn, who likes Dress Barn's Macrame Yoke Top, Embellished Asymmetric Top and Mixed Animal Print Tunic.
Color and Texture
Image and wardrobe consultant Orene Kearn recommends sticking with well-defined shoulders in any shirt or blouse, making sure there is a seam at the shoulder. Tops with shoulder pads, even small ones, are your best friend. "InStyle" editors chose Rebecca Taylor's silk blouse in their "Best Buys for Your Body" article, citing that artsy floral prints add interest above the waist for pear-shaped fashionistas.
What to Avoid
Don't draw attention to a wider bottom by wearing tops that are too tight, have visible pockets that stick out on your hips and thighs, and a jean wash that fades, highlighting your secret trouble areas. Stick with dark-color pants and flowing tops that add volume north of the border, pulled together with bold earrings and bracelets that attract the eye.
