Selecting the Right Shirts & Blouses

Common Mistakes.

When trying on shirts remember to check for pulling or gathering across the chest and around armholes. If a garment restricts your natural movement its not a good choice.

Shirts

I have broad shoulders, how can i minimize this?

Avoid tops with shoulder pads, and puffed sleeves because they will make your shoulders look wider than they really are. Also steer away from tops that have very thin straps...they have the same effect. Opt for tops with slightly wider straps to balance the width of your upper and lower body.

I have a small chest, what styles create more shape?

Look for tops with details along the bust e.g. pockets, rouching, trim. They draw the eye up for a more shapely appearance.

My arms are bigger than I would like, so I dont like to show them

Three quarter lenth sleeves are great because they cover the part of the arm most of us have problems with, the upper arm, without restricting us to a full sleeve. A stylish shrug has the same effect. Fluted sleeves drape nicely over arms creating a clean flattering line.

I have narrow shoulders, what styles are best for me?

Horizontal necklines, like boatnecks and square necks widen the appearance of your shoulders visually. Look for tops with details and trimming along the shoulder and sleeves.

How can i give my body a more defined shape?

To avoid having a boxy look for construction like princess seams and darts for shaping.

My chest is large, and makes shopping for shirts difficult at times, what should I do?

When you shop for tops look for darts and princess seams to give shape to your bust and torso so the garment doesnt fit you at the bust and then hang in a boxy shape. Wear open necklines to draw the eyes up and balance your silhouette. Wrap tops and blousons look great on you as well. Avoid thin ribs and high necklines.

What styles make my stomach look smaller?

Choose fabrics that drape over your curves, not cling.