March 2007

Keeping Abreast

Every woman I ever speak to always complains that she never knows what to buy or what really suits her. This time I thought I would talk about an issue that is on every woman's chest, her breasts, pardon the pun.

You speak to women about their bust and they rarely say I love what I have. They either want them bigger or smaller, fuller or firmer. There are some very simple rules for improving your bust line.

There are some basic design styles that will either enhance or reduce a bust line.

Tops in general

Whatever season you are entering there are some final tips to having a great looking bust at all times.

Full Bust

• Best necklines are scoop necks and V-necks. They break up the expanse of the chest area and draw attention away from your bust. Stick with solid colours.
• Best sleeve lengths are cap sleeve, long sleeve and three-quarter sleeve. They camouflage larger arms that sometimes accompany larger chests. The three quarter sleeve will also bring attention away from your hips and up to your waist. It is an all over great sleeve for a fuller figured woman.
• Avoid high and round neck tops. They make full busts look like one bulky mass.
• Also avoid sleeveless and oversized T-shirts.
• Never wear a sleeve which falls level with the fullest part of your bust as it will create a horizontal line highlighting your busts size.

Small Bust

• Best necklines are high necks and boat-necks. They broaden the shoulders and create the illusion of a larger bust. Printed tops are also flattering for small chests.
• Best sleeve lengths are sleeveless or short sleeve which are level with the fullest part of your bust. In both case the focus is brought back to your bust.
• Avoid low scoop-neck tops or deep V-neck tops. They create too much space above your bust and the focus diminishes the size of your bust making it appearing smaller than it even may be.
• Tops with ruffles and anything other decoration which will fill out the bust area look marvellous on your shape.

Jackets      

Jackets finish every outfit and with winter approaching it is time to look for one which will suit. Whatever size your bust is, to enhance it, select a jacket which is fitted otherwise your bust and your waist can get confused as one.

Full Bust

• Choose a shorter style that has a deep V-neck. Shorter jackets lengthen legs and the deep V separates your bust.
• Single breasted jackets with narrow or upward pointing lapels
• Avoid pockets placed over your bust

Small Bust

• Belted styles and styles with scoop necklines.
• Pockets placed over the bust are enhancing.
• Avoid jackets with dropped sleeves, deep armholes or with too much shaping at the bust.

Jumpers

Trying to stay warm and gorgeous can be a challenge. Here are some tips for you.

Full Bust

• Wrap cardigans are your best bet. Like the mention in the dresses section a high neckline will hide everything you have and not in a flattering way.
• Cardigans and deep V-necks are also flattering options.
• Avoid chunky knits that will add bulk to your figure.

Small Bust

• Turtlenecks are great for the small busted woman.
• Chunky knits give the illusion of a fuller bust
• Fitted long-sleeve jumpers.

Dresses

   Even though the weather is cooling we still enjoy wearing 
   dresses and dresses are becoming more popular than they
   have been for the past few years. To take the attention from
   your bust, no matter what size it is look for backless numbers
   which are always sexy.                  

Full Bust

• Your ideal dress is the wrap dress which highlights your bust and shows off your waist as well.
• Look for dresses with a slight flare to balance the lower and upper body.
• Avoid high necklines which will create the impression of a large shapeless mass sitting on your chest and halter styles, which may cause breasts to pour out on the sides.

Small Bust

• Opt for high neck styles that emphasize arms.
• Empire lines are very flattering to the small bust and very cute too.
• Avoid voluminous shapes that you can't fill out or skin-tight tops that draw attention to the bust area.

Finally getting a good, well-fitting bra is the answer to many problems you may encounter. A small bust can be made to appear fuller and a full bust smaller by wearing the right bra. Wearing a good bra is an easy way to also look up to 5 kilos lighter. Over time your bra straps can loosen and as your bust sits closer to your belly you will look heavier. Just by adjusting your straps and lifting your bust up can give you the appearance of being slimmer and to further enhance your new figure make sure you stand up tall. This week I was working with a woman whose issue was her lack of confidence after having children. What she did not realise was her posture had deteriorated from pushing a pram and picking up after her children. By simply getting her to straighten her back and lift her head she lost all of her chins and instantly looked a size smaller.

Looking your best should never be a chance of hit and miss. Knowing these few simple tips should have you feeling proud, sure of yourself and stunning whatever the season. Until next time, look out for these three little words, "you look great" and you'll know you have hit your mark.

Always wear clothing which accentuates your best assets while allowing those assets which may not be so favourable to remain a hidden asset. There is nothing about you that is not perfect. There may be some parts of you that are more perfect than others and that is what you want to highlight.

Looking gorgeous is possible for every woman; it just takes a little knowledge on what will suit you and you to can have a wardrobe which works for you all of the time. If you are still confused as to what suits your shape book in for a style consultation. You will know everything which will work for your shape from the tip of your head to the tips of your toes.