Transitional Clothing for Florida Weather

As a personal stylist sweating profusely in Florida, one must learn during the fall to dance with the scorching heat of the day and chilly temperatures at night. Dressing comfortably for both can be challenging, especially when you want to look stylish at the same time. To that I say challenge accepted. Today’s blog is all about dressing for that pesky in between weather without sacrificing style and using these garments to accentuate and add to an outfit rather than just keep you warm once the sun sets. Let’s delve into your outerwear options and summer pieces and how the combo of both can elevate your Florida fashion game.

Cardigans

The cardigan is one of the easiest things to throw on once the sun sets or when entering a chill building. However, as personal stylist there is slight beef with the cardigan. Many clients like to use them as a crutch to hide parts of their bodies they don’t like. Now, there’s nothing wrong with the cardigan itself, but the way it is commonly used does nothing for the wearer of the garment.

Like any piece of clothing in your chosen outfit, the cardigan should add and not subtract from the look, and using it to hide from the world is most likely not doing your outfit any benefits. It’s a cute, yet cozy add on. Treat it as such by opting for brighter, fun colors outside of your staple black, white, grey and cream. A cropped cardigan or one with a tie also allows you help accentuate the waist making it smaller. If you’re going to choose a longer option, then make sure it’s not too bag and that what you’re wearing underneath isn’t too baggy either. We don’t want your feminine shape to be lost in too much fabric.

Button Downs

A button down worn open is a breezier option if it’s still too warm outside for a cardigan. The similar rules apply when it comes to a button down. This shirt style can be worn with a more boyfriend cut, but, again, you have to be careful about keeping everything underneath fitted and smooth to the body. Have fun with color but you also have the option to play with textures. A faux or real leather — no judgment here — can create an edgy look without the commitment of leather jacket. Textures like suede, corduroy, silk, and linen are also options with their own feel and vibe. Suede, corduroy and linen feel relaxed, earthy and laid back aesthetic, while linen feels more luxe and feminine.

You’re winning the game if you can find a button down with a similar fit to this one on the left. The subtle rouching and defined waist built into the structure of the shirt will still be visible even when unbuttoned allowing for a sultry, feminine look that is simultaneously still relaxed and effortless.

Maxi and Midi Dresses and Skirts

Moving on from outerwear for the time being, let’s discuss you longer skirts and summer dresses. Do not pack them just because the weather is beginning to cool down. You can easily still wear these bottoms with all your fall and winter appropriate outerwear. Play with mixing the feminine and the masculine buy pairing your skirts and dresses with blazers or leather jackets (for those much cooler December nights). You can tuck in your chunky sweaters into skirts as well if you only want one layer.

Jackets

Lastly, the most obvious layering piece is the jacket. A well-fitting denim jacket is a staple for almost anyone’s closet. A denim jacket does dress down whatever you’re wearing. If you want to keep your outfit dressed up or don’t want to make an elevated outfit casual, then opt for a clean cut blazer with a good waist even when open. A blazer with a naturally defined waist will go with more items in your closet because you won’t have to compete with a boxy structure making you look shapeless with blousier tops or dresses. If blazers are not your thing, then a denim or non denim jacket in a color that is not a blue denim with clean, classic lines like the middle example can subtitle nicely.

Summary

So, when the sun decides to set and the cool air sets in, remember your what you place on top of your outfit is just as important as every other aspect of your outfit. Let these items be a playful and vibrant addition to your ensemble, a pop of color or texture that draws attention to your unique style. You use the cardigan wisely and not for hiding and embrace the many forms of a button-down. And when it comes to those longer skirts and summer dresses that you only love a few months out of the year, don't cast them away as the seasons shift; pair them with blazers or jackets for a fusion of femininity and edge. Fashion is more than just clothing. It’s how we project our personalities and self-expression. So, play with those cardigan and dresses, wear a chunky sweater with a skirt. Don’t limit your possibilities. Style knows no bounds, and you don’t have to either.

Dressing For A Job Interview: Creative Careers Edition

First and Foremost

Dressing for a job interview in a creative career is a captivating challenge—one that requires an artful fusion of self-expression and professionalism. A successful creative job interview outfit strikes a harmonious chord between creativity and professionalism without, of course, sacrificing your personal identity. Luckily, creative careers allow for more areas off self expression through one’s clothing. Individualism is accepted and almost expected. In this article, I will guide you through the process of curating a striking ensemble that captures your essence while leaving a lasting impression on your potential employer.
Each creative industry holds its own set of values, aesthetics, and norms. Whether the job is for an art director position or your interviewing to be a hairstylist, understanding the distinct culture of the industry you're entering is important. Research the company's mission, values, and portfolio to gain insight into their style. This knowledge will enable you to craft an outfit that resonates with the company's identity while still maintaining your personal flair.

Shirts

Going untraditional on top, whether you’re a man or woman is acceptable. A see through blouse worn with a simple clean tank that fully covers the midriff is a very fun and edgy way to spice up your typical blouse. If edgy isn’t your style, anything with a more bold print in a traditional silhouette also works. You can get be eccentric and expressive in your style, but you want to make sure everything you’re wearing is work appropriate.

For men, it’s a similar rule. Printed short sleeves are acceptable for more relaxed positions. If you’re interviewing for a mid-level or senior level position, a long sleeve is an appropriate option. A no tuck situation is not an option. Keep the look clean with a good tuck and maybe even a belt that matches your shoes. Graphic tshirts are an absolute no, even when worn with a blazer.

Blazers and Sports Coats

Speaking of blazer, a work around for those short sleeve button down shirts is layering a sports coat or blazer on top. This is an easy way to stay cooler if you live in a warmer climate and extend the wearability of your closet. You can rock a T-shirt underneath as well if your style is on the casual side, but only with a blazer on top. If your style is more daring and bold, play with printed blazers in classic patterns like a pinstripe, checkered or houndstooth. You industry allows for a greater breadth of self-expression. Use it to your advantage. Avoid patterns that are very busy and loud as those can come off as formal.

Women can also play with color and silhouette with their blazers. From boyfriend fit to a traditional well-tailored blazer, the world of professional outwear is your oyster. A blazer automatically polishes an outfit and places it into a professional vibe. Use it wisely as it can allow you to wear other pieces that don’t fall under traditional workwear but still have you looking interview ready.

Bottoms

Color is a very simple way to turn a traditional professional outfit into something worth of a creative professional. A bright yellow slack scream vibrancy and excitement, which is what creative jobs bring to companies. A non traditional skirt is also an option as long as it hits right above the knee or lower. Dresses are also acceptable for women as long as those shoulders are covered. Jeans, for an interview, are a not. They are way too casual for a first impression.

A more intriguing option for a man is to opt for a colorful pant as well. Yes, you stick to black or blue, but a color like deep burgundy or forest green are different enough without feeling loud if that’s not your personal style. As with the women, jeans are not acceptable even when paired with a blazer. This is the first time you’re presenting yourself in person and making a professional impression is important.

Summary

Dressing for a job interview in a creative career is more than just selecting garments—it's an opportunity to curate an ensemble that mirrors your aspirations and encompasses your individuality. Creative careers encourage you to embrace the relationship between creativity and professionalism. By balancing the two, you're not only making a visual statement but also expressing your dedication to your craft. Play with color in your outfit, try out prints and don’t be afraid to sprinkle in non traditional workwear. Remember, your attire should reflect your readiness to contribute creatively to the job you’re interviewing for. You what your style and energy to linger long after you've left the interview room.

A Go-To Boot Guide From A Personal Stylist

We over here at A Creative Cliché love a good pair of boots. Whether it’s a sweet bootie or a sky high style, a good boot can easily take an outfit up severals notches. One does have to be careful about who they’re styling their boots. It’s very easy to add a pair and make the entire proportions of an outfit feel off. Depending the length and style of your boot will determine the length of skirt or pants you should wear with them. Some combos might cause you took shorter than you truly are or too clunky and heavy. Here’s a quick guide to reference for your next boot purchase this fall.

The Ankle

The ankle boot or bootie can be a tricky style to pair in your closet. Because the majority of them hit right above the ankle, it makes it very difficult tower certain pant lengths. If you’re going to rock this style, make sure your bottoms are super short to show off all your legs or fully covered by the bottoms you choose. A midi dress or pant that stops right at the ankle will look awkward and threw off the lines of your body.

If you love a Chelsea boot but want the style to have a little more pizzaz, then find a pair with a good heel. It will elevate you, create a longer line and a more chic vibe. Also, have fun with the colors and texture of your boots. A clean black leather bootie is a key staple, but feel free to look into suede and other neutral colors like brown, cream, and grey.

A bootie is also the perfect time to get funky with your shoe choice. Because it’s the shortest of the boot styles, a funky color or bedazzling won’t feel as over the time and extreme since it’s only flashy at the lower part of your outfit.

There is one pretty much universal ankle bootie that can be worn no matter the length of your skirt or pants, and that’s the bootie that ends right below the ankle bone. This style won’t compete with an ankle pant because the line ends right for the pant begins. If you like this style of boot and can find one in your size, the then grab it immediately because they are few and far between.

The Mid-Calf

The mid-calf boot is the broadest category is some ways because the high of the boot can vary. It goes from around two inches above the ankle to around two inches below the knee. This style is best under a wider, looser pant similar to an ankle boot. Make sure if you’re pairing these boots with pants and skirts that the outline of the boot isn’t being shown. If you are going to wear them outside your pants, make sure the the pair you choose is skinny, smoother and tight to the body. These can be worn with long skirts and dress, but also midi and minis too. Just be cautious of where the boot ends and where your bottoms begin. You don’t want an awkward sliver of skin poking through. Think of creating a sleek and clean line.

This style is often seen as a sock boot or similar silhouette where the boot clings tight to the legs. This is also a good time to try out a combat boot if that is your style. The extra length going up the leg adds the chunky, rocker aesthetic.

The Knee High

The knee high boot had a mini disappearing act over the last few years, but is slowly starting to make its way back on the scene. This boot, especially is a classic black leather, can really elevate an outfit. This length is best paired with shorter lengths. It’s also great under your maxi and midis during the cooler months to help keep you warm. Similar to the mid calf length, you have to be aware when styling the knee high boot under pants. You don’t want the outline to show through. If the pant has an ample amount of space in the calf, and the boot hugs the your leg a decent amount, you should be fine. The best way to avoid this though is to find a knee high boot that fits snug on the calf and maybe even have a little elastic in the back to really keep a tight hold. You can also easily pair this style over your pants as long as the pants are skinny, smooth and tight to the body.

Feel free to have fun with style as well. As easy way to add some texture that isn’t too bold is to choose a suede material or croc embossed pair. The suede has a warmer, casual, down-to-earth type of feel, while the croc embossed gives glam and slightly eccentric.

The Thigh-High

There’s a misconception that thigh-high or over-the-knee boots make the wearer appear promiscuous. The style can add a certain sex appeal, but the boot technically just covers more skin, leaving more to the imagination. It’s also a great way to stay warm during the fall when paired with tights and sweater dress or during the winter over skinny jeans. Shorter bottoms really allows this boot to shine. A longer skirt or pant over the boot will make it difficult to wear because the style has a tendency to bunch up which will be seen through your clothes.

The style is definitely bold and daring and not for the faint of heart. But if those are words your closet already reflects, consider adding a black leather pair to live out your matrix dreams. Or go striking with a white or other bold color. Or keep it sweet and wholesome with a suede in a neutral like navy or tan.

Summary

There’s a boot for any bottom you decide to wear, but not every boot works for every bottom. The main idea is to not break your line or create an awkward proportions. Mini lengths work with everything, but midi lengths don’t work with booties or mid calf unless the shoe is fully covered nor thigh-high because of the likely bulging that will occur. Keep in mind a knee-high is a very chic option that can work a lot of outfits if the boot remains tight to the body with little to no gapping. Experiment with colors and textures that will work well with your wardrobe and maybe even get you outside of your comfort zone. The world of boots is yours to explore.

The 5 Body Types: The Pear Shape

The Pear

The first things we consider as personal stylists when redoing someone’s wardrobe are what the client’s best colors are and what their body type is. Knowing how to dress for your body type can eliminate a lot of frustration when shopping and also teach you how to love the body you’re in. This is crucial, especially nowadays with influencer culture. The likelihood that your favorite influencer has your body type is slim, making it difficult to purchase something they recommend and have it look the same on you. Looking to them as style inspiration is fine, but you have to couple it with knowing what works and what doesn’t work for the body you’re currently in. We are putting an emphasis on this currently because you can’t base your body type on what you looked like in high school or what you might look like after you lose 20 lbs. When determining your body type today, you have to be real with your current you. And remember, clothing size doesn’t matter. A person who wears a size 2 can have the same body type as a person who wears a 16. 

Today’s blog is for all pear-shaped or triangle body types. Being pear-shaped or bottom-heavy is the exact opposite of being an inverted triangle, meaning you are heavier on the bottom half of your body. The widest part of your frame is occurring at your hips. Now, having a big butt does not constitute a pear shape. When you look at yourself straight in the mirror, your hips protrude outward the most from your body, while the waist, shoulders, and breasts remain more narrow in comparison. Some celebrity examples include: Jeniffer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, and Shakira. 

How To Dress This Body Type

As a personal stylist, the goal when dressing a pear body type is to draw attention to the top of the body to create balance. We do this by adding volume to the top and playing with interesting necklines. High necklines design, pattern, color, and texture all create more interest at the top of the body. Off-the-shoulder tops are a great option for pear-shaped bodies. For the bottom, we want to keep it super simple and clean. Avoid fussy, colorful, voluminous bottoms as that will draw more attention to the bottom half of the body. 

The pear really just needs a little more interest on the top to distract from all the volume on the bottoms. Anything with voluminous ruffles or a puff sleeve is perfect for you. The addition of this off the shoulder moment is also a plus for this body type. But if frill isn’t your thing, cutouts, high necks, interesting necklines, textures, bright colors, and prints on the top is a perfect option as well.

Slimmer styles and darker colors on the bottom are also things you should lean into more for the pear body type. Skinny jeans have become a controversial fashion choice over the last few years. If you don’t like them, then you’ll want to wear a jean that’s no wider than a straight leg. But, just know, you may not like skinny jeans, but skinny jeans love you back.

This a fantastic example of what a pear body type look best in. The top is voluminous, colorful, and printed to offset your wider hips. And the skirt has stretch to smooth effortlessly over your curves. The deeper tone is also a plus.

Again, for the pair shape, we want volume and interest on top. The puff sleeve on the dress on the left will balance out your body. The smooth finish of the skirt on the bottom helps not to draw attention there. Same with the white dress. We love the fluff at the chest to draw the eyes up and the fitted skirt on the bottom.

Pieces to Avoid

Please avoid stiffer fabrics on the bottom. A straight leather skirt with no give is your enemy. A canvas-like material is also not a great option for you. Bold, voluminous bottoms are a no-go too. It will bring all the attention to the part of your body we are trying to minimize. Think simple and sleek for the bottom half of your outfit.

Summary

No one’s body type is easy to dress. Each one has its pros and cons. The only thing to do is learn the tips and tricks to dressing your body type. The goal is to make you look your best in the current body you have. Once you figure this out, your style will elevate beyond what you could’ve believed. For the pear, we want to draw all that attention to the top of the bottom and minimize as much as we can on the bottom – and that doesn’t mean only wearing slim black pants. Think bold and eye-catching for the upper regions and simple and clean at the bottom. Also, do your best to avoid anything that is too stiffy and doesn’t have any give on the bottom. It will compete with your curves and just cause you to look frumpy. Good luck shopping!

How To Choose Your Next Investment Piece

There’s a time and place where one drops a little extra coin on an investment piece.  And there are many reasons why one does it. You might be seeking a higher quality in you items, it’s a gift and you want it to be extra special, it’s something you plan to pass down, you need it to last you through the years, or you simply just feel like indulging. Whatever the reason, it’s important to be strategic about how and why you’re spending that much money. 

The first thing when deciding on an investment piece is to determine your budget. This might seem obvious, but it’s very important to take it seriously. Knowing your budget will narrow down what type of item you can afford and the brands you can buy it from. If your budget is $1,000 then the only things you can purchase from Prada and Dior are a pair of sunglasses and maybe a wallet. But if your budget is $1,000 and you’re shopping at Coach or Kate Spade, then your budget will allow you to purchase a coat and a bag depending on its size. 

Another thing to consider is the quality of the item you’re purchasing. Just because it has an expensive price tag and fancy label doesn’t mean it will be a better quality than your local Banana Republic. If quality is something that is super important to you, then do the research and find out what other buyers are saying about the product. The salesperson at your local Neiman Marcus is probably not going to spill the tea on how sturdy the strap is on that crossbody. Be smart and dig for details. 

The timelessness of an item is super dependent on its quality, as well. It’s hard to make an item work for you 30 years down the road when the ends are fraying and the leather is peeling. Not everyone’s style is classic and timeless, but anyone with a good closet will own at least a few classic or timeless pieces. A plain white t-shirt and a simple black pump never go out of style and work for a multitude of aesthetics. Consider how the item you’re looking to buy will hold up in your closet over a lifetime. If you’re going to spend 3x to 10x more than you normally would, make sure it’s something that will work for you for a very long time. 

The style longevity of your investment piece leads into the discussion about cost per wear of the item. If you’re someone who hates wearing heels, why are you buying 5.5 inch stilettos from Christian Louboutin? If you know you’re the type of woman who prefers to carry her entire life in her bag, then why did you spend over a thousand dollars on a bright pink miniature purse? Make it make sense. But, if you live in a place that gets extremely chilly, then spending $800 on a puffer is a great investment because you know it will get used often. If you wear that puffer four days a week for 2 months, that means you wore it 32 times. If you then divide $800 by 32 wears, that means your jacket cost you $25 per wear. And that’s only calculating for one winter. Versus spending $1,500 on a miniature purse you only wear 10 times – if that –  in your life. That means your miniature bag cost you $150 per wear. 

However, deciding to own a puffer or miniature purse is based on your lifestyle. We’re based in Florida. So, owning a puffer isn't necessary. But a versatile evening bag might be more your speed if you constantly have to attend special events. Analyze your life and see where your closet just isn't meeting the standards you’re looking for, then fill in the gaps with your investment pieces. 

Clothing can provide emotional gains and emotional losses. Purchasing the exact thing you need, wearing it all the time, and being happy instead of frustrated every time you go to grab it is your goal. It should honestly be the standard for everything in your wardrobe, but mainly, for those more expensive purchases. Be specific about how much you’re truly willing to spend and the quality you’re willing to accept. Make that purchase worth it by how long and how much you’re able to wear it. And deeply consider your lifestyle and what needs to be added to complete your wardrobe in a way that makes sense for you. 

The 5 Body Types: The Hourglass

The Hourglass

The first things we consider as personal stylists when redoing someone’s wardrobe are what the client’s best colors are and what their body type is. Knowing how to dress for your body type can eliminate a lot of frustration when shopping and also teach you how to love the body you’re in. This is crucial, especially nowadays with influencer culture. The likelihood that your favorite influencer has your body type is slim, making it difficult to purchase something they recommend and have it look the same on you. Looking to them as style inspiration is fine, but you have to couple it with knowing what works and what doesn’t work for the body you’re currently in. We are putting an emphasis on this currently because you can’t base your body type on what you looked like in high school or what you might look like after you lose 20 lbs. When determining your body type today, you have to be real with your current you. And remember, clothing size doesn’t matter. A person who wears a size 2 can have the same body type as a person who wears a 16. 

It’s your time to shine hourglasses. Today’s blog is for you. A big thing to note is that most women are not hourglasses. It is very rare to be a true hourglass, and yet it is the body type all the other types are trying to achieve. Meaning, the hourglass is naturally balanced and symmetric. The width of the shoulder-bust area and the hips are the same across with an extremely defined waist in the middle, If the waist is not snatched and easily identifiable, then you are not an hourglass. Here are a few celebrity examples:

How To Dress this body type

When dressing an hourglass, there aren’t many no no’s to the necklines you can wear. V-necks, scoop necks, sweetheart necklines, boatnecks, off-the-shoulder, and collars are all fair game for you. Bottoms are the same. However, the structure of the clothing items you choose has to be very specific. Most of the items in your closet have to have some type of stretch. Please avoid stiffer fabrics, especially on the bottom, because it does nothing for your curves and will sit on top of the body making you look shapeless and boxy. You want a little bit of give in your fabrics. Most boxy things aren’t going to work for you. 

A true hourglass looks phenomenal in a simple bodycon moment. Because your body is balanced, you don’t need to do too much to make it look its best usually. Finding a high quality fabric in your magic color would be stunning for this body type. And there are plenty of other style dresses that can suit you well. Not much is off the table.

Again, there you wear almost any silhouette pant or skirt. Something preferably fitted through the thighs is best. You want your clothes to sit over your curves smoothly and highlight what’s already there. Something like this would be fun on an hourglass because it hugs the upper part of the body, yet still has a subtle interest to the bottom that won’t throw your balanced proportions off.

Any neckline for a top is suitable. Explore and have fun. But remember, your body is symmetrical so even a fitted pair of denim and a high quality is tank with good accessories is going to work really well on your body type. Just make sure the items you choose have some give and stretch to them, otherwise, you’ll find that you will look much bigger than you really are. Those stiffer fabrics will suit on the widest points of your body and hide your snatched waist.

pieces to avoid

Some stiffer styles that won’t work for your body type are the long denim skirts. Most of them wont have enough stretch to compliment your natural curves. A billowy shirt like this is also not a great idea because it will just sit on top of your body, making you look frumpy. A straight, stiff, shift dress is also not your friend. You’ll end up looking much wider than you actually are.

There is also one last thing to note about the hourglass body type. Because of your hip-to-waist ratio, you’ll find that many bottoms will fit snug through the thighs but have gapping around the waist. It can be frustrating when shopping but is very common for this body type. You will often have to get your clothes tailored in order to fix this issue. It’s the trade-off for having such a naturally snatched waist, but there’s nothing quite like having a garment that fits your body perfectly.

Summary

No one’s body type is easy to dress. Each one has its pros and cons. The only thing to do is learn the tips and tricks to dressing your body type. The goal is make you look your best in the current body you have. Once you figure this out, your style will elevate beyond what you could’ve believed. For the hourglass, you really want to avoid stiff fabrics and boxy structures as this will make you look shapeless and bigger than you truly are. Other than that, feel free to play and explore with necklines, colors, patterns, and pant types. Just know that most of the items you own need to have some stretch and give to them. Good luck shopping!

Dressing For The Current Version Of Yourself

As personal stylists, we usually keep our emphasis on styling people for their current them, meaning wherever you’re at in terms of body type in life, we dress you for your current body. Almost everyone is trying to lose a few extra pounds, which we understand completely. However, we are not fortune tellers. We can not look into the future and see what your body will look like six months from now. Nor can we be sure you will stick to your goals. What we can do is encourage our clients to work with their current body shape as it is in that preset moment instead of idealizing what they wish their bodies to be. If you can’t be real with yourself, you won’t grow and evolve as a person and neither will your style. 

There’s no time like the present., and you only get one chance to be this present version of yourself. You may not to see your beauty when you look at yourself in the mirror right now, but learning to love this version of yourself is possible and necessary to move forward and become the version of yourself you’ve always wanted to be. Living with the future you or you from your past is not going to change who you are right now. The only way to change your present self is to be in the moment and love the person looking back at you in the mirror. How do you expect to love the future you if you can’t even look at yourself with love now? You have to love yourself to hop on that treadmill, drink more water, learn what clothes emphasize your assets and wear them, and be okay with being seen.

Fashion is an extremely powerful tool that can reshape your mindset. There is merit to the phrase “look good, feel good.” Even if you don’t love the extra 40 lbs you have on your right now or you wish your boobs were bigger or your shoulder broader, there’s still a way to dress your body to make you look at yourself in the mirror a little more positively than you did before. Good style is for everybody and does not discriminate against size. Anybody can be stylish. You simply just have to invest the time in yourself to figure out what that looks like for you. 

And going beyond dressing for your body, once you start to hone in on your personal style, it’s game over. Because not only will you look the best you can look in the clothes, the clothes will reflect who you are and how you want to be seen. When you dress as yourself, people will see that and begin to treat you accordingly. If respect is what you’re after, then your style needs to reflect your ambition and seriousness. If you feel like you have a gentle, kind soul, then an air of friendliness and openness should emanate from your clothing. Whatever the case, clothing is a tool you should lean into rather than hide in. 

The small, incremental changes you make to your wardrobe can have the biggest impact on how you feel about yourself. The current you is worth learning about in its entirety. Figuring out what works on your body as it is right now and what doesn’t work will provide you with confidence. Clothes are not superficial objects. They are tools to be used strategically for your emotional benefit. Think about who are and the positive qualities you possess that you want to make shine a little bit brighter and then lean into that. Be real with yourself and love yourself. You’ll be surprised how far you’ll go once you start accepting the current you. 

The 5 Body Types: The Rectangle

The Rectangle

There are two things that can drastically change the quality of your wardrobe. One is knowing what your best colors are, and the other is knowing your body type and how to dress it. One of the biggest problems with buying online or buying an item you saw your favorite influencer wear is that they most likely don’t have the same body type as you; therefore, it won’t fit you the same. Today, we’ll be discussing one of the five different body types and the best ways to dress for it. And remember, everybody type has different ways of manifesting. You can wear a size two or a size 16 and still be the same body type. You also have to be honest with yourself when determining your body type. We’re not figuring out what you body looked like in your 20s nor what you body type would be if you lost 20lbs. We are determining the body type you have right now. 

Today’s body type is all about the rectangle, commonly known as banana or boyish shape. The rectangle body type is characterized by having an equal width of shoulders-bust area and hips. The waist can appear ever so slightly smaller but not enough to be described as snatched or super defined. Some celebrity examples inlcude Cameron Diaz, Zendaya, Taylor Swift, and Kendall Jenner.

How To dress this body type

The main goal when dressing the rectangle body type is to define and create a waist. Once that occurs, the shape of the body is now balanced. That means virtually any neckline can work for the rectangle. We just want to make sure we’re choosing tops that snatch the midsection and create a shape. Outfit combos that have a lot going on both the top and the bottom draw attention, making the waist seem smaller. High-waisted pieces or even an A-line dress work great for this body type. Something that doesn’t suit the rectangle or those shapes stretchy bodycon dresses and bodysuits. They literally do nothing for you, especially when it’s a harsh square neckline. Anything with a tie, gathering, or rouching around the waist is a better option. 

These dresses are exactly what we want for a rectangle body type. The deep on the cream satin dress leads into the waist line forces our eye down to the midsection to create a nice snatched effect. The A-line style is also a favorite for the this body type. Th green dress is made of a stiffer fabric, which is some cases could be tricky, but the gathering and pulling at the center really brings in the waist, making it more defined.

Again, the creating a waist is super important for this body type. Peplum, like in the white example, is a controversial style. However, it’s literally made for the rectangle body because it adds dimension in a fun and unique style. Or you can go for a more classic route by wearing tops that have a tie around the center. If you do this, remember to always either tie your bow in slightly to the side or to the back, never directly in front . Tops with boning or corset style also help bring in that snatched waist effect which we love.

For bottoms, the best style is usually going to be high waisted. When the skirt or pant hits at the smallest part of your midsection, the eye automatically makes thinks you now have a smaller waist than you do. For some added help, a tie belt, also tied to the side or back, can enhance cinching affect.

Pieces to Avoid

There are unfortunately, a few pieces you should steer clear from. A tube top is not your friend. Unless you plan to use it as a layering piece under a see through through shirt or jacket, it’s usually not going to work for you. Those shapeless bodycon stretchy dresses that everyone loves to wear are also not your friend. They do nothing for your body. There needs to be some structure and shape to the dress before you put it on with ruching, pulling, or gathering. Another thing you may like but does not like you back are slip dresses. Again, it’s shapeless and doesn’t accentuate the part of your body that needs the most help.

Summary

Each body type has its own unique quirks you have to work around when dressing it to look its best. Your body isn’t difficult. You simply need to learn what works for it and what doesn’t work for it. The rectangle frame is waistless, meaning you want to focus on choosing items that give you a waist. Boxy dresses and bodycon numbers are not going to give you the look you want. The high waist is your friend, regardless of it’s in style or not. Feel free to play around with necklines and pant styles. Just make sure the items you buy are snatching you in the way you deserve.