Q. I’m looking for a glamorous, yet professional, outfit to wear to my office party but my double D breasts can cause me problems, especially, when I’m buying eveningwear. Any advice?
A. Few women are ever satisfied with their bust. But their frustration often gives way to resignation when childbirth, loss of weight or simply the laws of gravity take their natural toll. If you have more than a handful, you‘ve probably have discovered by now that fashion is not always your friend and not everything in the shops is going to suit you. Having an ample bust may be seen as a blessing but it can also be tough to find clothes that fit. The voluptuous Nigella Lawson is a perfect example of how to dress for this shape. Her tiny-waisted, full-skirted summer dresses and figure hugging evening gowns are enough to make anyone feel happy about their curves. But - if you are not quite sure how to make the most of your assets, here‘s a guideline for the shapes and styles that will suit you best.
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.
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.
NECKLINES: The best way to minimize is with a V-neck. This comes back to showing a little bit of skin. It's about creating verticality. You want to make sure you aren't showing too much skin; it can look a little trashy. You need an arsenal of camisoles. Do a nice V-neck with a cami to add a little coverage. You're creating an illusion of a longer neck, and that creates a longer body overall. Don‘t wear large necklaces or brooches as they‘ll only draw attention to your chest.
OCCASIONWEAR: A large bust can really shorten your torso. The No. 1 thing is, you've got to be fitted for a proper bra. They need to be up, the proper height. With tailoring, darts are your friend. Darts that go underneath and in toward your body will show you have a shape. Full busted women need support. Steer clear of any skimpy halter necks, low v-necks or v-necks that reach your empire waistline and empire waists for they can make you look top heavy. Avoid any kind of shiny fabric such as silk, satin or the dreaded lamé or you could end up like a Ferrero Rocher.
WHERE TO SHOP: I love Bravissimo, the shop that has a gorgeous range of tailored clothes to fit women with a larger bosom. The stylish collection of shirts, tops and dresses are based on standard sizes 8 to 18 but are cut to accommodate a large chest. 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 party. Bravissimo (01926 459859, bravissimo.com)
At Figleaves (0870 499 9000, figleaves.com) sizes go up to a 56 back width and a JJ cup. Online sales.
Heavenly Bodice (heavenlybodice.com) has a plus-size category that goes up to a JJ, and 56 back widths, in some styles.
