Simply Elevate October 2014 | Page 11

#2 GETTING THE RIGHT FIT Next, let’s find your body type. Are you pear shape, hourglass, athletic, or apple shape? I am pear shaped, larger in the hips and thighs. I try to avoid solid tops with a patterned bottom. It draws attention to the area where I don’t want it, not to mention making it appear larger! Semi-fitted, moderate length tops, A-line skirts and flat fronted pants work well with this shape. If you are hourglass shape, lucky you! This shape is considered the classic body shape. Your bust and hips are seemingly the same size with a much smaller waist. With this shape, avoid horizontal stripes and loose tops that take away from your curves. Try semi-fitted tops that fall at mid-hip. The athletic shape is also known as the rectangle shape. Your waist isn’t as defined, but by wearing contrasting colors on the top and bottom it can give the illusion of the desired hourglass shape. Lastly, we have the apple shape. Many women have this shape; your waist is larger than your bust and hips. For this, we want to elongate the torso. Avoid cropped styles and opt for straight fitting jackets, longer V-neck tops and s