I have a typical ‘apple shape’ with a softer fuller middle and an ample cleavage. I also have broader shoulders and upper arms with an undefined waist, so it can be a nightmare finding clothes to fit my shape. Can you advise me on what styles suit my frame?
Catherine Zeta-Jones, Liz Hurley and Drew Barrymore are all famous actresses, but what else do they have in common? Well believe it or not - it’s their figures – they are all an apple shape.
An apple-shape usually refers to women who have a full bust, waist and upper back, and it generally means that you store fat around the mid-section of your bodies. This alas means your stomach, abdomen and chest, but the excellent news is that you'll also have slender thighs and upper legs as well.
For most apple shapes, dressing up means trying to hide your figure. However, that’s not what is needed; you need to learn to draw attention to the right body parts and to take away attention from your problem areas.
The main purpose here is to draw attention away from the tummy, and focus attention to your best attributes which include your much envied breasts and legs. Balance is always the aim.
The main goal will be to lengthen your mid section because we want to give the appearance of slimmer shoulders and waist.
When the tummy area is the fullest part of the body, it is best to not accentuate that area. Stay away from drawing the attention to the waist. Avoid tops and pants that meet right at the fullest area of the waist. That goes for prints and belts as well.
For an apple shape, a dress with an empire waist will help draw attention to your middle. Tops with V necks and those which puff up around the breasts will also help in drawing more attention to the bust line.
To enjoy a somewhat slimming effect around your waist and hips, so you need skirts and trousers with flat fronts and the fastenings should preferably be on the sides. Ruched and gathered tops conceal the tummy, as do dresses with a low slung waist.
Tips
* Jackets should fall right below the waist to mid-thigh, never at the widest part of your hips and remember that darker solid colours work best for your tops.
* Avoid fitted or tailored pieces, especially those with a waistband that is very clear for all to see, as this will draw attention to your middle. Instead opt for trousers and skirts that are straight.
* Stay clear of short tops, you should always opt for tops that cover the hip area and if possible, wear over tapered trousers, which will elongate and slim your legs.
*Flash those pins! Short skirts are not only sexy, but they will take attention away from your mid-section and instead draw interest to those slim thighs.
