Let’s face it, we all have different body shapes. We range from straight up and down to curvy pear shapes, and this can sometimes make it hard to shop the newest trends to suit you. I’m sure at some point having heard the phrase “you can’t wear that, not with your shape,” many women have developed a habit of sticking to one silhouette (me included). I’m going to take the ‘can’t’ out of the sentence and replace it with ‘can’ by showing you new ways and ideas that will alter fashion trends to suit your body rather than the other way around.
High street fashion is always changing; new shapes, patterns and textures can sometimes make us shy away from the new, due to being unsure of how to wear them. All you need to do is re-educate your mind to visualise wearing them to suit your body shape.
Tartan has been splashed in all the high street shops recently which can be slightly daunting. The bright colours and tartan print may be something that those of us without a super model physique steer clear from, but it’s time for things to change. There are so many different variations of the trend that you are bound to find the right style and shape for you.
I have always been drawn to loose fitting blouses and shirts, although being a top heavy size ten, I had been advised to stay away. After trying them out for myself I found the flowing material would cascade off of my chest adding inches to my silhouette but the solution was easy. Simply pairing the shirt with a pair of high wasted super skinny fit jeans did the trick. Tucking the shirt or blouse in to the jean accentuates your waist; additionally the snug fit on your legs and hips will emphasise your curves evening you out. Try a pair of coloured jeans, doing this will take some of the focus away from your top half making you seem more in proportion. If skinny fit jeans are not really your thing then why not try a skater skirt. These skirts flare out from the waist creating the illusion of a fuller lower half. When wearing with a loose fit shirt be sure to tuck, the skirt will synch in your waist therefore leaving you with the perfect hour glass.
Red Tartan Check Shirt: £17.99 New Look
Parisian Style Leather Look Skater Skirt: £6 New Look
There are also a wide range of tartan skirts and trousers available in stores which, understandably, those of you with a fuller bottom half might leave on the rail. If you are feeling adventurous a pencil skirt is a great place to start. The fitted nature of the pencil skirt will show off your curves in all their glory, wearing them high will showcase a tiny waist and in accordance to your legs you can find them in a variety of lengths.
Emma Tartan Zip Front Mini Pencil Skirt: £12 Boohoo
Black Mesh Panel Sleeveless Crop: £15 River Island
Billie Gingham Check Midi Pencil Skirt £20 Boohoo
These two skirts are busy but in a very flattering way. The leather look black panels help to sculpt your thighs working with the tartan panel drawing the eye to the centre of the skirt creating the illusion of a narrower frame. The zip slit detail allows you to play with your look, adjusting the zip higher or lower can transform the skirt from day to night. Pair with a basic t-shirt of vest to allow the skirt the attention it demands, although if you’re feeling a bit racy pair with a crop top and have all eyes on you.
If you are someone that wants to start small and work your way up a good place to start is with a jacket. Wear over all black or with simple jeans and a top. This will add interest to your outfit without being in your face. The great thing about a tartan jacket is it that it can work with almost any body shape and they come in a variety of styles.
Red Tartan Blazer: £20 River Island
Check Sleeve PU Biker Jacket £20 Primark
Try tartan out for yourself. Whether you’re daring or just dabbling, experiment and find the perfect tartan outfit to suit you.
