Shorts
The best look for ALL body types is the Mid-Length Short. Recognized by an inseam of seven or eight inches, the mid-length short can go by numerous names: the walking short, the classic short, the day short, etc. They are great for everyone because unlike knee length shorts, which can visually cut the line of your leg, the shorter length makes legs look longer, while still covering upper thigh problem areas.
The best look for a CURVY body type is the Knee Length Short. Shorts that come to the knee are great for covering up problem thighs, and a slim cut and low waist keep them from looking frumpy. An easy way to keep these shorts from making legs look shorter is to pair them with a bit of a heel.
The best look for a PEAR SHAPE body type is the Bermuda Short. A knee length short that has a wider leg helps to even out the bottom half, while covering problem thighs. Bermuda shorts are a classic look that can be work dressed up, and even to the office. Again, the knee length looks best when paired with a heel.
The best look for PETITE body types is a Short Length Short. Characterized by an inseam of five inches or less, the shorter length visually lengthens the look of shorter legs. Dare to bare in a three inch inseam, or still keep problem thighs covered up in a five inch pair.
The best look for TALL & THIN body types are Roll Up/Convertible Length Shorts. An easy way to maximize the length of tall and thin legs is with shorts that cuff, or have a convertible length. The roll up cuff can add bulk to stick-thin legs, and gives the option of different lengths.
Skirts
The best look for ALL body types is the A-Line Skirt. The A-Line looks good on pretty much any body type, balancing the hips and making the waist appear smaller. This skirt is also very versatile, appropriate for casual, business, or dressy situations.
The best look for a CURVY body type is the Straight/Pencil Skirt. Contrary to popular belief, curvy girls CAN wear a slim fitted skirt. Curves aren’t something to be hidden, but shown off! A classic straight fit skirt can work with your curves, and in a dark solid colour, take ten pounds off your look.
The best look for a PEAR SHAPE body type is the Full Skirt. A-line or pleated also works well for a pear shape, but overall volume on the bottom is the idea, balancing a larger lower body. Wear with a slim fitting top to give a great hourglass shape. This look is best when the length hits just above the knee.
The best look for a PETITE body type is a Short Skirt. As with the shorts, a shorter length will make legs appear longer. The short skirt should be worn with caution however, as miniskirts don’t bode well for women over 35. A slightly longer skirt, three to four inches above the knee, works well for the more mature woman.
The best look for TALL & THIN body types are Short Skirts with Volume. The idea with a shorter, voluminous skirt is to add bulk to a super skinny figure. Short and pleated, bubble hems, and tulip skirts all fit this look perfectly. Wear with a bit of volume on top and a cinched waist belt to create the illusion of an hourglass figure.
Dresses
The best look for ALL body types is a Defined Waist with a Fuller Skirt. This look has a cinched waist, creating the illusion of a tiny waist and curvy hips. This look works on women of all body types, and looks best when the length hits at, or just above, the knee.
The best look for a CURVY body type is Semi-fitted with Lots of Draping. Select styles that drape (but don’t cling!) over curves and show off the waist-line. This could include: wrap dresses, shift dresses, A-Line dresses, and belted shirt dresses.
The best look for a PEAR SHAPE body type is Empire Waisted with a Flared Skirt. Choose empire-waist styles, or anything that is fitted around the bust or waist, and flares slightly at the skirt. Opt for flowing fabrics on the bottom half. Also consider styles with vertical draping and seaming to help elongate the body.
The best look for a PETITE body type is a Slim Silhouetted Dress. Look for slim silhouettes – such as semi-fitted sheaths, wraps, and shirtdresses. Make sure to match the proportions of the dress with your own, keeping the look sleek and simple so it doesn’t overwhelm your frame.
The best look for a TALL & THIN body type is a Slim Shape with a Defined Waist. Try belted styles, like shirt and wrap dresses, and those with defined waists. Shorter styles also work well with a tall and thin shape, and bold, graphic prints, or details such as ruffles can add volume to a super thin frame.
