Emphasizing Your Best Features When Making Apparel Purchases

By Rodney Byrd

When purchasing clothing, people want to buy an item that will ensure that they are looking their best. There are many different factors to look at when buying clothing, but often, people don’t even consider the most important factor: body type. People come in all shapes and sizes and one way to always look your best is to make sure that your are buying items that complement your body type. This article will discuss common body types and what types of clothing accentuate each type. I sincerely hope it is helpful to you.

Men

• Short, Round Type -- There are several things you should do if you have this body type. First of all you can hide roundness by wearing darker colors. Do not wear pleats. They add fullness to the hips and waist. When buying shirts, purchase medium toned shirts with point collars to thin the face. Also, avoid wearing contrasting colors by paring dark colored shirts with dark colored pants. Lastly, buy shorter length jackets, sport coats, and blazers. They add proportion to the body.
• Tall, Long Legs -- If this is your type, try a double breasted suit for elegance. Also try subtle non vertical patterns. This will avoid the look of elongated legs. When picking pants, pick cuffed pants with a long rise for a proper fit. When it comes to colors, wear light colored slacks with dark colored sport coats.
• Slender Shape -- If you have a slender shape, wear pleated and cuffed pants to add weight. To add and appearance of weight, select shirts with patterns. You can hide thinness by choosing mid to dark colors. Lastly, avoid baggy fit clothes that may appear as if they are too big for you.

Women

• Uniform Figure (similar bust, waist, and hip measurements) -- Avoid boxy, stiff clothing. When possible, buy flowing shapes that soften straight lines. Also, choose bias-cut or flared styles to enhance curves. Don’t mix and match colors. Monochromatic outfits are the best. Your waist can be defined with a fitted jacket that nips in. The hips can also be emphasized with a low-slung chain belt.
• Large Upper Body -- With this body size, it is essential to match tops with slender pant and skirts to create a narrow silhouette. You should pick shirts and jackets that are a bit loose, but not baggy. They should be in dark shades. Belts are not recommended if possible. A printed or brightly colored bottom is recommended, also.
• Full Hips -- If this is your body size, try scoop, funnel, or V-neck lines. Full hips can be hid with a slender A-line coat and knee-length skirt. Tops should be purchased in bright colors with a variety of textures. Skirts or pants should be purchased in dark, neutral colors. Another tip is to experiment with scarves and necklaces. Try high heels to slim and elongate the legs.

Keep in mind that the clothing of difference designers fit differently. The sweater from one designer may fit and look better than a similar sweater from another designer. Find one designer that complements you and try to purchase key items from his or her collection.

Thus, as you can see, there are a number of things a person can do to accentuate their body shapes and sizes. Looking your best and feeling your best go hand and hand. Happy shopping!

About the Author:

I graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in Finance, and I have numerous years of experience in the retail industry. I served as an Executive Team Leader with Target Stores. My current employment is with Saks Incorporated as a Replenishment/Retail Analyst. In addition to this, I am a freelance business writer whose work has been published on various websites and in magazines.

We are exposed to retailing everyday of our lives. It can be a trip to the grocery store, department store, or even to the doctor. Every business is involved in selling some sort of product or service. As consumers, we should be aware of the many emerging trends in retailing, because they directly affect us and the pocketbooks we carry! I am dedicated to providing you with that information.

On a personal note, I am a minister, and my hobbies include writing, reading, and surfing the Internet.

Article courtesy of www.suite101.com