The Six Body Shapes: How To Dress To Look Good In Them

Carolyn Kenmore, a supermodel from the 1970s, was famous for saying, 'You have to have the kind of body that doesn't need a girdle in order to get to pose in one.' Unfortunately that doesn't apply to most of us and while we long for the 'perfect' shape - long legs, a small waist, firm bust, flat tummy, how many of us actually measure up to what the magazines tell us we should look like?
Exercise can do a great deal, but however hard you try you can't suddenly grow six inches; you can't lengthen your legs or shorten your arms--at least without undergoing serious and often dangerous surgery, and that's never recommended! What you can do is make the most of what you've got. We are all different, but without going into too much detail here are some quick guidelines for the standard female shapes.

• LONG-WAISTED, SHORTER LEGS. Short jackets are the thing here. Try belts the same colour as your skirt or trousers, because they help to add length to the lower half of the body. If your legs are on the short side don't wear your skirts very short or very long, as this will emphasise the lack of length. If you have a nice small waist make the most of it by wearing waisted outfits accompanied by a striking belt.
• SHORT-WAISTED WITH LONG LEGS. Longer jackets are more flattering as they hide the fact that there is not much length in the waist. Short, straight skirts and trousers are flattering too, with a belt that is the same colour as your top, as this will add length to your torso. Trouser suits look great, as they show off your length of leg.
• PEAR SHAPES. Buy a jacket that is loose fitting rather than fitted, as this will help balance your smaller top half. When you buy a suit, if you are a size bigger on the hips, try a waistcoat to help pad the jacket out, or wear a scarf to help keep the attention above the waist line. Steer clear of very wide skirts and trousers, and choose patterns that are vertical.
• TRIANGULAR SHAPES. The shape of women has changed a lot over the last forty years, and we are seeing more tall, triangular shaped girls. Make the most of your slim hips and longer legs with straight skirts, either short or long. Pleated skirts look good too. Jackets should be tailored, but because you already have wide shoulders make sure shoulder pads are not too big. Dresses hang well on you, but avoid the belted type, as they will draw attention to your lack of waist.
• LARGER WOMEN. Keep the clothes simple and choose good fabrics. Don't wear anything that is too tight. Skirts must not pull and buttons should not strain. Loose, flowing, plain coloured clothes are most flattering. Long, unstructured jackets or shirts, waistcoats and tunic tops look great. Choose good, striking accessories like a scarf or a brightly printed shawl draped over one shoulder. An eye catching necklace or brooch also looks very attractive.
• SMALL WOMEN. Fitted jackets work well on small women, as do trouser suits if you are slim. Avoid very long skirts as these will emphasise your lack of height, and don't try to compensate with very high heels. Think tall and you'll look taller!