Body Type: Lower Figure

If you answered B, and have curvy hips and legs, and a smaller chest, you have a lower figure. Generally speaking, you should spend your money to clothe the area of your body that is most difficult to dress. Splurge on a pair of jeans that you love to wear and make you happy because you will wear them continually. Remember the importance of pocket placement. Choose pockets that are in proportion to your body. Small pockets will draw attention to the area, and accentuate your derierre. The skirts and dresses that best flatter your body type have a simple silhouette and an A-line drape. Create balance by having fun with your blouses and tops. Beading, sequins, peter pan collars, and high necks will all make your top half appear larger. A bold necklace will also bring the attention back to your face. Highlight the smallest part of your frame, the waist, with a belt or seam within the garment and finish off your look with a stacked heel or wedge. 

Body Type: Upper Figure

If you answered mostly A, and have a well endowed chest and slender legs, you have an upper figure. V necks, scoop necks, and plain colored tops are all great options for you to flatter your body type. Necklaces that hit at the collarbone or below the bust line will elongate your frame, and drop earrings will bring the attention back to your face. A fitted jacket with a button closure will polish any of your outfits, and cinch in your waist. Don't forget the importance of a proper bra fitting, as the outfit is only as flattering as its foundation. Resist the urge to buy oversized potato sacks that hide your figure. Instead, play with color, pattern, and texture on your lower half to call attention away from your, ahem, ample bust. Try brightly colored demin, pleated and ruffled skirts, heavy fabrics, such as velvet, and bold prints to create a balanced look from headband to high heels.

Love Your Body Type

Body type. Ouch. Perhaps the most dreaded component of Your Personal Style. I can relate as I have been turned off by many a magazine, website, or style book calling me a "pear." I am a woman, not a piece of fruit. I hope you will hear me out because knowledge is power and my intent is not to tell you all the things you can't wear. Each body type inherently comes with positive attributes as well as its own set of challenges. Most of us long to be whichever one we're not, but my goal is to help you like your body. Once we understand our bodies it becomes easier to clothe them and to love them! 

Each of us have a shape unique to us, but we will generally fit into one of five categories. Finding where you fit in can most likely be determined by answering the following question:

If you were to indulge in this little beauty, where on your figure would you see the results?

A. Bust &/back

B. Hips &/thighs

C. Tummy

D. Evenly distributed

E. Nowhere

A follow up question:

You find it most difficult to shop for:

 A. Blouses that close

B. Pants that fit

C. Blouses that don't cling

D. Blouses and pants

E. Nothing, clothes seem to be made for me

And finally the measurements. Grab a tape measure, a piece paper, and a pencil. Take a deep breath this is for scientific purposes only. 

1. Measure your bust at the widest part.

2. Measure your waist, somewhere near your belly button.

3. Measure your hips at the widest part.

4. Confirm your body type by the following equations:

A. Bust > hip measurement.

B. Hip > bust measurement.

C. Bust = waist = hip measurement, and overall look is soft and curvy.

D. Bust = hip measurement, 

&

 waist < hip & bust measurements

E. Bust = hip = waist, and overall look is angular and straight.

If you need further help, try this calculator or ask a trusted friend. Sometimes it's easier for others to see. 

Ok you made it past the hard part, all you need to do is remember A,B,C,D, or E and come back tomorrow to discuss each body type in more detail.