Esra Erdogan/Life! Editor
It’s hard to come to terms with the fact that the things you’re attracted to aren’t what look best on you.
Most of us have to struggle to find clothes in stores that don’t acknowledge our body types at all, which leads to a lot “nothing looks good on me” moments.
What is “in” is always cut for thin and tall people, no matter what season it is.
Manufacturers for stores like J. Crew, Urban Outfitters and Zara follow the lead of designers who create clothes for runway models who are chosen essentially for their resemblance to a clothes hanger.
Since I’ve become completely obsessed with fashion, I’ve always tried to imitate looks that I’ve seen in magazines or online, modeled on women who are ten times thinner and much taller than me. And I’m sure you have too, because it’s what we are surrounded by.
It’s no wonder we have such a frustrating time when we go shopping.
You should make it a point to start focusing on what’s right for your body type, instead of looking at things that are on trend and basing what you buy off of that.
Don’t dismiss what’s new and in style all together, but try to pick and choose based off of things that flatter your body type.
Short versus mid-length skirts, long versus cropped pants, skinny versus wide-leg. All of these styles of clothing are in right now. But these items will suit some people and look unflattering on others, depending on height and body type.
Does it emphasize what you want it to emphasize? If you have a thin waist, draw attention to it by making sure your clothing is tailored to emphasize the waist. Belt your dresses at the waist, or try bottoms with a high waist.
If you have long legs, don’t cut them short with mid-length skirts or cargo shorts. Try shorter shorts and dresses to show your legs off, or floor length styles to make yourself look taller.
Avoid things that work against your body type. If you’re curvy, don’t wear anything loose and baggy like a drop waist dress. By sticking to things that are a closer fit to your body, you can avoid making your body look shapeless.
If you’re short, avoid wearing maxi skirts and dresses. The length will only shorten you even more.
If you’re tall, don’t wear anything too short. Ultra short lengths will make you look like you’re wearing children’s clothes, because everything will look a little bit shrunken on you.
Try to pick one trendy item, then incorporate an element that fits your body perfectly. Tight jeans and a big sweater will flatter most body types, and also allow you to wear an item that is cut for a model.
To look for inspiration, try to find a style icon with a similar body type as you. Visualize what looks good on them when you go shopping and try similar items on.
I am almost positive that once you experiment with things that are cut for your body, the days of “nothing looks good on me” will begin to fade away.
Haute Topic is a weekly fashion column. Email at esra.erdogan@fiusm.com.
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