Dress to Flatter

Feb 6, 2012

Dress to Flatter

This is a pattern that I believe follows the guidelines for flattering the apple body type.

 
The Strategy: Create contrast by using angular lines to counteract the roundness and softness

Look for:
• Wrap tops, which will give the illusion of a smaller waist
• Seaming on blouses and anything with a corset-style structure
• Pleating and gathering under the bust that draws the eye vertically down the tummy
• Deep v-necks and scoop necks
• Drapey empire styles, provided they’re not too voluminous (that’ll only make the area look bigger)
• Straight-leg―rather than skinny―bottoms build a sense of proportion with your upper half
• Higher-waisted pants and pants with a bit of stretch; these have a girdle-like effect and hold your stomach in

Avoid:
• Extreme A-lines, or anything too blousy that lacks shape
• Busy details like pocketing on your top half, patterns that don’t match your overall size (larger frames can carry off bigger prints, and vice versa)

Your Secret Weapon: Wear a stretchy tank top underneath your garments to create a smooth, seamless base

I know this isn't a vintage pattern, but right now I'm looking for ideas and patterns that incorporate the lines that best  fit my body type. I hope to then be able to find those vintage patterns that will flatter.