Pillow Talk: Dressing Solely for your Body Type

Today I want to talk about dressing for solely for your body type. I have been mulling this topic over for months, and am really interested in what you all have to say about it.

The fundamental concept I have settled on is that dressing for our body type may be hindering us more than helping us. I am consistently receiving comments on the blog explaining that someone doesn't want to try a specific style because they are sure their body type forbids it, and it makes me incredibly sad.

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One of my greatest concerns about dressing for our body types is that the entire concept infers that there are only certain things "right" with our body type and many more things we are trying to minimize or play down. As a woman, why on earth should I be trying to minimize my hips? Is that not an inherent quality of womanhood (and eventually motherhood)? I despise the idea of dressing a specific way because we are ashamed of our body, or parts of our body. (If you want some solid reading on this topic, I suggest Sal's Down with Shame post.)

If there is a style type you admire but fear you may never pull off, I say let go of some of your prejudices and at least try it on. Observe other women you know that dress outside the box and decided for your self if something might work for you.

Some of you may remember my favorite quote from Nina Garcia's book,

"I marvel at a six-foot tall woman in stilettos, a big bottom woman in a curve hugging skirt, a flat chested woman in a tight, low-cut t-shirt. When a woman embraces her imperfections, they can become her greatest strengths, definers of her character and spirit."

So how about you? Do you think about your body type when getting dressed or shopping? Do you care or could you care less? Do you let body issues limit your choices? Or...?

I'm very interested in what you all have to say about the topic. Leave a comment...

Style File: Jessica {Tunics & Belts}

Some of you may remember my post for Jessica last week. She's a lowered figured gal trying to learn the best way to wear skinny jeans. Go to that post to read about my tips for finding skinny jeans that work. She continued her email with this question,

What types of tops are good for a pear like me to wear with skinny jeans?

My tips on what to pair with skinny jeans for the pear:

• Keep your tops light & bright. Feel free to add color and pattern liberally to elevate attention from your bottom half.
• Accentuate your waist, as it's one of your best assets

A great way to minimize the transition from your itsy waist to your fuller hips is to wear a tunic length top. And don't forget to cinch your smallest point with a belt.

Here are a few tunic finds:


1 - Abstract Tunic Set - Kohl's - $16.80 (Orig. $42.00)
2 - Striped 3/4 Sleeve Shirt - Forever 21 - $13.50
3 - Geometric Tunic - Kohl's - $14.40 (Orig. $36.00)
4 - Drawstring Striped Tunic - Forever 21 - $11.50
5 - Striped Ruffled Tunic - Kohl's - $15.20 (Orig. $38.00)
6 - Lauren Conrad Roll-Tab Henley Tunic - Kohl's - $21.99 (Orig. $38.00)

And a few fun belts to mix and match with them:


1 - Wide Woven Belt - Forever 21 - $4.50
2 - Studded Metallic Belt - Forever 21 - $14.80
3 - Mini Braid Belt - DownEast Basics - $14.99
4 - Criss Cross Belt - DownEast Basics - $14.99
5 - Sliced Front Elastic Belt - Forever 21 - $7.80
6 - Patent Bow Belt - Forever 21 - $5.80

What do you think of this look? Is it something you would wear? Tips to impart on dressing a lower figure body?

Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

{If you are interested in hiring me as a personal style consultant, email me for rates}

Style File: Jessica {Skinny Jeans}

I got an email from Jessica last week. She was hoping for a little help.

My name is Jessica. I've been following and enjoying your blog for a year now. Now, I need your help.

This is the thing:

I am 35 years old and a TOTAL pear shape. I am a 8-10 on the bottom and small-medium on top. I am self conscious about my larger rear end. And I feel like I'm at the point where I have to start making sure I'm not dressing too young. So my issue?

Skinny jeans.

I know they are everywhere. I know they are what's in style. I don't feel like they are the best look for my body but I have been wearing them in the winter with long cardigans and boots over and feel pretty good about them when I've got them all covered up.

Now...what do I about spring/summer? [...]

My advice to her was to buy slim straight leg jeans. They still offer the same tailored look, without calling as much attention the the hips. My favorite pair around right now are these Ann Taylor's:


They were on sale for just $39.99 (Orig. $88). They have since sold out.

Here are a few other straight leg denim options:


1 - Colorwashed Jeans - Spiegel - $39.99 (Orig. $69.00)
2 - Manhattan Wash Modern Slim Jeans - Dillard's - $35.70 (Orig. $59.50)
3 - Modern Straight Leg Denim Pants - Ann Taylor - $39.99 (Orig. $85.00)

I think if your proportions lean toward being lower figured (not sure? click here to find out), you should keep a few things in mind.
-Dark wash jeans will minimize hips and legs.
-Avoid washes with fading or whiskering, as they will draw attention to your lower half.

And, lastly I will say this about pear shaped women wearing slim cut jeans. If you do not feel confident and attractive in this style, don't wear it! Sometimes, all it takes is carrying yourself as though you are the most beautiful woman in the room. In Nina Garcia's book, Little Black Book of Style, she says,

"I marvel at a six-foot tall woman in stilettos, a big bottom woman in a curve hugging skirt, a flat chested woman in a tight, low-cut t-shirt. When a woman embraces her imperfections, they can become her greatest strengths, definers of her character and spirit."

I will continue with Jessica's style file next week.

What do you think of skinny jeans? Are you lower figured and rock this style? Leave a comment!
Thanks for reading,

Happy Shopping!

{If you are interested in hiring me as a personal style consultant, email me for rates}

Body Type: Lean

Lean figured ladies have the body of a model. There are no misplaced curves interrupting the line of your body or interrupting the lines of your clothes. Sometimes it can be difficult for linear shapes to feel feminine in thier clothes. And it can even be difficult to find clothes that fit at all. Many of these women stick to the juniors department because the clothes are made for subtler curves. If you don't wear a padded bra, someone has surely suggested it to you. If these characteristics sound like you, and you have a waist/hip and waist/bust ratio greater than .75; your hips and bust are virtually the same, then you are a lean figured gal.

According to Reachel at at CE, linear ladies have the liberty to accessorize generously. They can create volume and interest with pleats, ruffles and frills. It's a good idea to attempt to draw curves along your figure with row of buttons, piped edges, or strategically placed pockets. Look for soft, flowing fabrics that will create movement and hint at a curvier figure. The end game is to draw curves and minimize angles. A good way to do this is by selecting flirty and feminine pieces.


Floral Sheer Top $17.80 from Forever 21

The ruffled and pintucked detail at the chest alludes to curves that could be hiding under the top. The belt defines a distinct waist. The top flares at the hip hinting at a curvier backside.


Pleated Linen Skirt w/ Belt $22.80 from Forever 21

The pleats on this skirt create vuluptious volume at the hip.

Buttoned Linen Skirt $22.80 from Forever 21

The pleats and pocket detailing on this skirt allude to a more generous hip.


Ruffle Chiffon Blouse $17.99 from Charlotte Russe

Rustling ruffles at the bust give the illusion of underlying volume, while the smocked waistband accentuates the waist. A puffed sleeve rounds angular shoulders.



Straight Leg Charcoal Denim $15.oo (orig. $75.00) from 15 Dollar Store

This is one of the few body types that benefit from a slim-cut trousers. The narrow ankle alludes to a wider, curvier hip and close fitting seat shows off the subtle curves of the backside.

Read Cardigan Empire's full Lean Figure post here, for even more tips on how to dress your shape.

Thanks for reading, and as always,

Happy Shopping!

Body Type: Pear

Lower figured ladies do not need a formal definition to know what their body type is. Your hips are wider than your shoulders and your thighs are round. But the given definition is a hip/waist is greater than 1.10 and your waist/bust is at least .75. When Pears gain weight, 90% of it goes to the hips. Even when pears lose weight, they simply become smaller pears. This body type is part of who you are, so you should learn to dress it!

Reachel, at CE, gives this advice: "First remember, to never accessorize your fullest assets, let your hips articulate their own sultry poetry. This means avoiding large prints, bright colors, and fussy details on your lower half. Second, literally elevate attention. Feel free to apply bold colors, big patterns, and special particulars on your upper figure." The end game of this is to bring attention to your dainty top half while adding mystery to your voluptuous bottom half. Aim for the appearance of perfect proportions.


Ruched Sleeve Cardigan $15.50 from Forever 21

The puffed sleeve of this short sleeve v neck cardigan stretches the line of the shoulders, balancing them against the width of the hips.


Stretch Dark Blue Bootleg Denim $15.00 (orig. $75.00)from 15 Dollar Store

Use dark fabrics to add mystery to the lower half of the body. Look for pants with the line extending directly down from the widest part of the hip. Also, make sure the yoke curves adequately to eliminate any gaping and ends in a slightly higher rise which cleanly clasps your waist.


Stretch Wide Leg Trousers $15.00 (orig. $36.90) from 15 Dollar Store

Again, using dark fabrics and wide legs to shroud the actual size of the hips and legs.


Cotton A-Line Skirt $24.99 (orig. $59.00) from Talbot's

A-line skirts that hit around the knee area are ideal because they draw attention away from problem areas.


Buckled Peep Toe Heel $16.99 from GO Jane

Opt for substantial heels over thin to stay in step with those strong stems.

Read Cardigan Empire's full Lower Figure post here, for even more tips on how to dress your shape.

Thanks for reading, and as always,

Happy Shopping!

Body Type: Apple

Today we talk about you, middle figured ladies. If your waist/hip and waist/bust ratio is greater than .75, you are probably an Apple Figure. You know who you are; if you gain 5 lbs, 4 goes to your waist line. Sometimes it is easy to ignore delicate wrists, shapely ankles, beautiful skin when you are frustrated with your lack of defined waist. There are no bad or better body types, each has its own difficulties to dress.

Reachel, at CE, gives this advice: "First remember, to never accessorize your fullest assets. This means avoiding drawing a line around your middle portion with belts and tucked in waistbands. Second, direct attention to your face. Employ the powers of an open or embellished neckline, jewelry, and exposed skin. Third, opt for monochromatic pieces or selections in similar color families, rather than creating a bold contrast between top and bottom. You want to create a seamless line all the way down your figure."

Also, it is recommended that Middle Figures select outfits in similar color families, rather than creating a bold contrast between top and bottom. Try to create a seamless line all the way down the figure.

The more extreme your body type, the more rules you need to abide by. There is such a thing as borderline middle figure. If you think you fall into this category, you can try things on (belts, etc.) and use your discretion to determine which rules you need to follow with exactness.

Here are a few items that work well for this shape:



Paisley Top W/ Tassel Tie $17.80 from Forever 21

This top glides over the torso, drawing no unnecessary attention to the waistline. The scooped detail neckline draws attention back up to the face. The cap sleeve also gives opportunity to showcase shapely arms.


Golden Stitch Top $24.99 (orig. $34.99) from Pink Ice

This smooth linen top with embellished round neck line draws attention to where it belongs, your face! The relaxed fit skims over the peskiest parts of your middle.


Layered Satin Skirt $24.80 from Forever 21

The volume of this ruffled skirt attracts focus to the lower half of the body and helps to balance out the core. The shape of the skirt is so fun, not to mention it shows off one of the best assetts of the middle figured lady, the legs.

Stretch Slim Denim W/ Contrast Stitching $15.oo from 15 Dollar Store

Skinny pants are up to each Apple figured person's discretion. If you think you can pull it off, pair it with a longer tunic for a slimming effect.

Stretch Wide Leg Trousers $15.oo from 15 Dollar Store

These wide-legged trousers will create a more even look between upper and lower halves of the body.

Read Cardigan Empire's full Middle Figure post here, for even more tips on how to dress your shape.

Thanks for reading, and as always,

Happy Shopping!

Body Type: Hourglass

The measurements of the Hourglass Figure are:

Waist / Hip & Waist / Bust ratio of .75 or less and Hip & Bust measurements within about 2" of each other. (These are not hard and fast rules.... if it's close, you are probably in this category)

According to Reachel at Cardigan Empire, the hourglass figure is an illusive thing. Envision the likes of Sophia Loren, Marilyn Monroe, and Lynda Carter. Imagine my surprise that I found out that I am an hourglass (and no, I do not look like Sophia Loren). Each body type has it's own upsides and downsides. Some of the difficult things about dressing an hourglass are the standard short waist and the scarcity of apparel that shares hourglass proportions. If every button on a blouse is closing without pulling, it is sure to billow around the torso (perhaps this is why I have a built-in avoidance for button-up blouses). And to find trousers that comfortably fit both seat and thighs, the waist band consistently gaps.

According to C.E., belts are like duct tape for an hourglass figure, a wardrobe cure-all. (I discovered this on myself several months ago, and put a belt on with nearly everything I wear)

Here are a few items that work well for this shape:


Ruffle Pointelle Top $24.99 from Charlotte Russe

This top might be best for slimmer hour glass figured ladies. I like the cute pointelle pattern and the belted waist.



Safari Wrap Top $22.80 from Forever 21

This top may not have been something I would have been drawn to on its own (although I do harbor some serious love for animal prints). The great thing about this top is the lack of buttons, and the flattering wrap to show the smallest part of your middle.



Boot Cut Jeans $15.00 (orig. $75.00) from 15 Dollar Store

A Boot Cut jean will balance the width of the hip. Look for a curved yoke and a midrise that embraces the narrowness of the waist.



Multi-Colored Tie Front Dress $29.80 from GO Jane.

The pattern on this dress is not for the faint at heart, but if you can pull it off, it will show off all the best parts of your figure.



Plaid Belted Turtleneck Dress $21.80 (orig.$25.99)

Can you say, "Va Va Voom"? Show off those curves with this belted dress.

Read Cardigan Empire's full Mythical Curves post here, for even more tips on how to dress your shape.

Thanks for reading, and as always,

Happy Shopping!

Dress for you Body Type

My good friend Erin (who inspired me to write this blog) told me about Cardigan Empire, a great blog written by a personal stylist, with great tips on dressing your sweet little bodies. She has done posts on different body types as well as how to handle the ever changing pregnant body (and the transformed post-partum body). I love what she does, I just want to put a budget spin on it. (Most of her fashion finds are full priced items from Anthropologie.)

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The first step in the process is getting measurements.

1. Strip down to your undergarments. Measure while wearing all of the things you usually wear under your clothes. While measuring, keep the tape taut (not too tight, not too loose). This may require asking a friend of an intimate nature (mother, sister, or husband) to help you.

2. Measure your bust - across the fullest part of your of your bosom and straight across the back.

3. Measure your waist (the most narrow part of your body)- somewhere in the vicinity of your navel.

4. Measure your hips - navigate the tape around the fullest part of your bottom, around the curve of your hips, and straight across to the front.

5. Now the calculations:

Divide the hip number by your waist number (hip/waist)
Divide your bust number by your waist number (bust/waist)
Divide your waist number by your hip number (waist/hip)
Divide your waist number by your bust number (waist/bust)

Put these measurements away for the next few weeks coming posts on how to best dress your body on a budget.

{I found these directions here.}