Apr 05, 2014 10:27
by Missy
Choosing clothes to fit a big-busted body shape can be challenging, frustrating, and feel very limiting. . Have you ever felt that all designers simply mustn't have anything bigger than a c-cup?
We're here to tell you, by sticking to a few rules, dipping into trends and mastering personal style will become easier - here are some fail safe tips that will help you build on and re-invent your current pieces into a working wardrobe.
1. Embrace the v-neck.
By day, obviously a plunging v-neck is not appropriate work attire, but a v does create the right line. By v-neck we include tees, knits, blouses, and also this season's denim and plain shirts. Layering the two can create great texture... just remember to avoid chunky pockets or blingy detail on the bust line.
2. Get some support
This is where you (heartbreakingly!) need to invest the big bucks. But believe me you will not look back. The right bra gives you lift, shape, and support. The right bra is the building block of every successful look. Find a specialist bra shop with awesome service, and invest. And take care of them, you won't look back.
3. Accentuate your waist
A voluminous or shapeless dress can be restyled with the right waisted belt, so be on the look out for interesting belts always. On the dress front, waisted dresses and v-neck wraps dress should remain go-to staples. Another trick for cooler weather, is a shift or singlet dress with knotted silk shirt, this creates both the long v-line and a waist detail that show off your shape.
4. Structured jackets
Whatever your body shape, an awesome jackets is the UDWT (that's Missy talk for “ultimate dressy-up wardrobe transformer!”). For busty gals, you'll hit gold with bold prints, shoulder details, to-the-waist styles, and slightly cinched waisted styles.
5. Reinvent mistakes
Whether your body grew, or you just bought a shirt that is too small, leave it open, or tie the waist. Got a dress in the cupboard where the neck is too plunging? Try adding a scarf, or layering a contrasting singlet to get more wear. Got a shift dress that does nothing for you, seek out a fabulous belt or wrap a silk scarf on your hips to create shape. Don't be shy to experiment!
6. Know what to avoid
Double breasted jackets, vuluminous tops like kimonos that break apart at the bust, baggy and wide pants - stick with slimmer lines, cowl neck tops or dresses, high necked dresses, and tricky dresses that need tricky bras are not worth the pain.
7. Get inspiration
Check out the style of Christina Hendricks and Kate Upton, and also our Real Women Real Style stars Jennifer and Sarah for inspiration.
If you've got a larger bust, please share your favourite shopping haunts, preferred designers and tips in the comments below.