“The Business Fashionista” is AZ Big Media’s fashion blog for the business-minded. It examines the dos, don’ts and musts of the modern fashionista who wants to stay in step with the latest trends in the workplace.
Not everyone is born with the same body shape. We see women in movies wearing tight skirts and stilettos in the office. But let’s be honest, it’s a look that’s hard to pull off, plus who can stand to wear stilettos for 7+ hours? Like different hairstyles and makeup looks, fashion is a tool used to bring out your best features. What should matter is that you feel comfortable and look great with what you’re wearing, all while looking professional in the workplace. Here are a few tips for dressing for your body type.
Hourglass: If you have an hourglass shape, you have a thin waist, ample chest and curvy hips. You can add emphasis to your waist by wearing a pencil skirt that stops right above the knee. Pair a coral pink skirt with a simple white blouse tucked in and a pinstripe blazer. Vertical stripes can actually help to downplay your curves. Tie the whole look together with a pair of nude/beige heels or flats.
Inverted Triangle: Women with this body shape have broader hips than shoulders and a tapered waist. For this body shape, don’t immediately go for a pencil skirt. If you want to draw less attention to your hips, opt for a skirt that’s more loose-fitting and pair it with a ruffled blouse. You still want to show off those curvy, confident legs! Try the “Peppered Tweed Midi Skirt” from The Loft and pair it with a white, black, or baby pink blouse.
Triangle: The triangle body shape is characterized by a trim waist, shapely legs, big bust and broad hips. Try wearing loose fitting blouses without ruffles or patterns to draw attention away from your chest. You really know how to pull off V-neck shirts, just make to keep it appropriate for the office by wearing a cami underneath. Blouses with loose, three-quarter length sleeves add emphasis as well. Pair off your top with black or grey pants suits that add emphasis to your well-sculpted legs. And don’t forget about the shoes!
Ruler: Women with this shape have a slender figure, usually characteristic of being an athletic or sports look. Women with this shape often struggle to define their waist, so the easiest fix is pairing a skirt with a big belt to add definition. Pair a beige pencil skirt and brown belt with a cute ruffled top and navy blue blazer. Pull the look together with these super cute 1920’s-esque heels. And don’t forget to accessorize with a watch or bracelet!
