Stripes for Pear Shaped Bodies
By this time, we all know that dressing our pear shaped body is a labor of love and that sometimes good old-fashioned “smoke and mirror” techniques can help give us the added oomph that we crave.
Striped tops accented by great jewelry are one of the tricks of the trade as the combination will give the illusion that our upper torso is broader then our bottom. Pairing a great sweater or shirt with a pair of dark denim jeans, black pants or even a solid pencil skirt are all some great ways to drape your Pear Shapely figure. Plus complimenting the stripes with the Coco Chanel Inspired Pearl Before Swine Necklace ($86) from Hurricane by Jane will make the look completely yours:
As always, Bluefly.com has options and this Cashmere Striped Bubble Sweater ($123.99) will do the trick:
The ribbed waistband, will allow the garment to sit right above your hips, accentuating your whittled middle, the bubble effect will add a slightly fuller silhouette to your slim top portion, the stripes will work their magic and the cashmere will add the necessary “yummy” factor.
Menswear is currently a huge trend and I always keep some staples in my wardrobe. With a Striped Cashmere Sweater Vest ($139) available on Shopbop.com we can also balance our figures:
Depending on your mood you can just add a layering t or a white button down. Mix and match with all the aforementioned bottoms, and you will be good to go. The illusion is the same, it is just another twist on the look.
When trying something new, breaking the $100 range may not be a realistic goal. Never fear as the Gap always has affordable options. I’m totally digging this Striped Crew Neck Sweater ($44.50):
Out of all the lined toppers out there, this shirt will provide the best optical illusion for balancing out your figure courtesy of all the white space around your shoulders and chest (our two most narrow points).
From bargain retailers like Forever 21 to designer discounter happy places like Loehmann’s stripes are plentiful, flattering and affordable. Feel free to share your favorite finds with me, as I love hearing about a good shopping score!
Best Cardigans for Pear Shaped Gals
Cardigan sweaters rock! For years I have sworn by these must have layering pieces because of the versatility and ease of wear. This year the fashion industry has finally caught up with my taste and have been promoting these garments as the addition to purchase for your fall wardrobe.
Pear Shapely lasses looking to add some selections to their wardrobes will feel like a kid in a candy store! From preppy argyle finds of 100% cotton from Old Navy ($29.50):
To luxurious cashmere styles available on Shopbop.com ($295):
You can have it all. Regardless of how much you want to spend and the style you are interested Pear Shaped women need to think and ask themselves some questions before purchasing to ensure that they buy the right item for their needs. Questions to ponder:
- Fabric choices: Acrylic sweaters tend to add unnecessary bulk without providing any warmth, so make sure there is something of the earth like cotton, cashmere or wool involved in your purchase
- Allergies: Angora is a fur component from little bunnies. If you are allergic to cats and dogs make sure that this component is not in the sweater you are eyeing as you may react poorly to it in the long run
- Fit: Like with any garment for pear shaped lasses, showing off your little middle will flatter your shape most. Cropped cardigans, longer sweaters with ribbed neck trim that will lock the sweater above your waist or duster duds that have a belt feature will keep you warm, cozy and stylish.
- Length: Make sure the sweater you are eyeing does not fall mid thigh as it will highlight the bulkiest portion of your body. If you must get a sweater that hits that region, make sure that the item is not boxy and that there is either a built in belt or you can belt it to show off your curves
Whatever you choose, make sure the fit is right, that you can immediately picture wearing the item a number of ways and that you do not go into debt purchasing the said garb. Then with that extra cash, feel free to shop at Hurricane by Jane Jewelry and treat yourself to a little something, something like the stylish and affordable Swingtown Earrings ($32) and Necklace ($37)!
PearShapely 