I have a large chest and find it difficult to find professional clothes that are flattering yet professional. Dresses and coats are either too tight or baggy and unattractive because I have to go up a size to accommodate my curves. What I need is some suits, shirts and dresses that will work for a size 32DD - have you any advice?
You’ll have probably discovered that fashion is not your friend. Not everything in the shops is going to suit you. You're going to have to figure out the shapes that flatter and raise your confidence, and look for fashion items that feature that cut.
Shops such as Next stock a wide selection for girls with curves and Arnotts also provides a range of clothes designed to flatter and fit larger chests.
Bravissimo has just launched a fashion line for busty women, which is very flattering and feminine. In its new Curvy Clothing range, they have created stylish clothes that flatter, rather than flatten, your bust. They also have a great selection of dresses that could also work for the office.
Here’s a guideline for the shapes and styles that will suit you best…
Dresses
Look for short dresses that flounce out a bit or have an Empire line. These accentuate your hips and legs, not your cleavage.
Wrap dresses are the most becoming shape curvy woman, or a smock style where the fabric falls loosely from under the bust.
Steer clear of high-neck shift dresses and halter-neck styles, if it is tricky to wear a well fitting, supportive bra underneath. Three-quarter length sleeves are the most flattering as they draw focus away from the cleavage.
Blouses and Tops
Never hide a big bust in big shirts. If your bust is large, draping it in roomy layers of fabric is not going to flatter, it will only make you appear larger that you are. Avoid high necklines at all costs and always opt for V necks or a low round neck to balance your proportions
The best shirt style, according to Trinny and Susannah “is one that is tight around the waist and loosening on the chest.” This minimizes the waist and gives the illusion of a smaller bust. Look for a tie just under the bust, or a corset style blouse, which really flatters the bustline.
Jackets and Coats
Avoid square and structured jackets with high necklines and double-breasted styles which will make you appear top heavy. Go for a single breasted, fitted, deep V-neck which will separate the bust and lengthen the body. Keep the shape fitted and long. Draw the eye with long tops so that your boobs are a part of your silhouette, not your most stand-out feature.
Jumpers and Knits
Avoid chunky knitwear and go for thinner cashmere-like fabrics which give less bulk. The same rules apply for necklines. A V-neck and wrap cardigan or sweater is much more flattering than a round or high polo neck. Go for fine knits rather than chunky. Layer if necessary but avoid bulk.
Necklines
Don’t wear large necklaces or brooches as they’ll only draw attention to your chest. Avoid high and round necklines on tops and T-shirts which provide no break between your neck and bust, making them appear unified and therefore even bigger.
V-necks are wonderfully flattering as they elongate the body and act to separate your cleavage. Low, draw-string-necklines are also fine. Any neck style which provides an expanse of flesh from the neck and chest will give you a sleeker figure.
