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Handy Hints when wearing Prints

Choosing a flattering print for my body shape used to have me running for the hills. Because I am a curvy girl I used to think I had to avoid prints altogether, images of Big Momma running wild in my imagination clouding my judgement. What I have in fact learned is that there is a print and pattern to suit and flatter every body shape. Again it is all about highlighting your best bits and concealing the maybe not so best. Print will draw attention so knowing where to highlight is key.

No matter what your body shape if you are petite you really need to stick to the rules. Height may be your foe but you can make print your friend and make it work for you. Opt for small prints that will flatter your petite frame, a vertical stripe will give the illusion of height and always, always avoid large print that will swamp your frame. So you can imagine larger framed lassies should go with the opposite. Small print on a large body only makes you look larger than you are. Clean large print works with a fuller figure and keeps everything in balance.

Ok so here are a few tips for the 5 different body shapes:

Hourglass

Larger print will balance out the curves. A diagonal stripe is equally as flattering on a curvy hourglass. A wrap dress in either of those print is spot on for a curvy hourglass as it draws you in at the waist and highlights that gorgeous figure. A must have for the hourglass wardrobe.

Apple

The apple’s weakest part is the midsection so try steer clear of busy prints around the tummy. Emphasis should be above the bust line and below the waist. Apples tend to have good legs too so a printed skirt and simple top work wonders. The eye is drawn away from the tummy and down to those gorgeous pins.

Pear

Pears tend to carry their weight on their bottom half so it makes sense to draw the eye away from there. If wearing separates a blouse with a busy print is great teamed with a simple trousers or skirt. If wearing print keep it simple with a small print in muted colours. A nautical stripe above the waist is a firm favourite with well dressed pears to balance out the bottom half.

Rectangle

The Rectangle is blessed in many ways because they can wear most prints and patterns. Horizontal stripes work wonders to create curves. A bold graphic print looks great on rectangle shapes. When wearing separates a loose flowy printed trouser is gorgeous and can soften the angled shape.

Strawberry

The trick to dressing well as a strawberry is to balance the larger upper half with the smaller lower half. A full printed skirt teamed with a soft draped blouse is a gorgeous look to balance the body. The eye should always be drawn down to take away the focus from larger shoulders and bust. Eye popping colour prints look great on the lower half.

So there you have it. We’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions so have at it!

Siobhan, The Zip Yard Limerick City