Curvy Essentials

Hourglass shapes appear to have it all — curves in exactly the right places, plus a nipped in waist that makes life perfect. Or so we think. In reality appearances are deceiving, proving that nothing is ever what it seems. Yes, of course, hourglass figures are blessed with shapely parts and enviable proportions, but they have their own set of challenges too. Curvy shapes have to work at flattering their body just like the rest of us, and here’s how:

1. Belts
   Above all curvy women should always accentuate the waist, making a belt wardrobe a worthy investment. Leather, suede, tooled or leopard, make belts the focal point of an outfit with a statement width, color, pattern or buckle. Show off curves with a suede corset belt paired with a knit body con dress, cropped faux fur vest and almond-toed high-heeled suede boots. Remember lines should undulate to reinforce curves, so avoid design details like pointy-toed shoes and boxy, highly structured shapes.

2. Foundation garments
   The quickest way to ruin a great outfit is by wearing ill-fitting undergarments. Curvy women should invest in a good bra before anything else, and be sure to stock up on multiples in light and dark colors, plus T-back styles for summer tanks and dresses. Also consider foundation garments that smooth, hold, mold and lift. These small changes transform personal appearance from good to great in an instant.

3. High-waisted pants
   High-waisted trousers do all the right things for curvy shapes. They hug the bum, contour the hips, control belly bulge and emphasize the waist by extending it north just a tad, which also lengthens the head-to-toe silhouette. Add a heavy crease and flare leg and it’s just about the most ideal line a curvy woman can wear. Always keep the waist accentuated with tucked-in or cropped tops, tapered blazers or a belt, and never add bulk above waist like shoulder pads, statement ruffles or puff sleeves.

4. A-line skirts
   Conical-shaped A-line skirts direct the gaze up, tricking the eye to rest on the midriff. This is ideal for curvy shapes as it not only shows-off a nipped waist, it also flaunts balanced proportions top and bottom. Style with a form-skimming cold-shoulder top, classic pumps and an arm stack of bracelets, bangles and cuffs to further emphasis waistline and ensure the gaze is directed to it.

5. Belted winter coats
   Outerwear is, by definition, oversized garments roomy enough to be worn over other clothing. As a result, winter coats are typically big, bulky rectangular shapes that are the opposite of what curvy women should wear. The better choice is a wool coat with sash belt or puffer coat tapered at the waist with clasp belt. Wear either style with knee-high boots in same color as coat to maintain an uncluttered look, elongate the silhouette and keep the waist the star of the show.

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.