Body Shape

Understanding your Body Shape is one of the basics to choosing the design lines that will work best for you. I like to keep things simple - I refer to four basic shapes (Hour-Glass, Triangle, Inverted Triangle, and Rectangle). But there is an even simpler classification: Straight or Curvy.

Straights usually have rounded stomachs, a 'soft' waistline and fairly flat bottoms; any extra weight is carried on their tummies or upper hips.

Fitted dresses, skirts & trousers work well, as do skirts with straight lines. Choose minimal waistbands & slim fit rather than full, gathered or pleated skirts/trousers.

Make the most of your shapely legs, and SKIM the waist (don't try to create/emphasise what you don't have).

Curvys tend to have wider hips with flatter stomachs, rounded bottoms and curvy upper thighs; their extra weight is carried on their lower hips, bottoms or upper thighs.

Soft, flowing lines on the lower half works well but shift dresses and straight skirts don't. Highlight your waist & top half.