#figure analysis

Duh!  Of course, we all want to wear clothes that highlight our assets and minimize our areas of concern.  But, I can't be the only one who's slipped up for the sake of rocking the latest trend or picked up a frumpy frock thinking it would look great if I just added a belt... or a fitted jacket... or what have you.  Well, no more!  My new shopping mantras might seem rigid, but there's simply no room in my closet these days for pieces that require too much effort or don't serve me justice. 

Shopping Rule #3: Flatter Your Figure

Dressing for your body type is not an easy feat.  I've studied countless books and theories on this subject matter.  There's so much information out there on what to do and what not to do.  It took me a long time to get the "guidelines" down and process all of the pieces.  I'm always happy to share the tips and tricks I've picked up with my clients, but I recently removed the figure analysis service from my menu.  It's honestly too overwhelming for both of us to try summarizing and retaining the amount of information that can be provided in a one hour service.  Now, I save the suggestions for our shopping trips.  It's so much simpler to explain what works when you can try things on and visualize the concepts.

I find myself fortunate to have invested the time into figuring out what works for me.  I encourage you to do the same and in the most positive way possible.  We are all uniquely beautiful and our differences are what create interest and intrigue.  There is no right or wrong.  Just what makes you YOU.  I'm my own worst critic, so I know how easy it is to get caught up on the negative and to hone in on the things we'd like to change about ourselves.  But, I urge you to embrace who you are today.  Look for the positives and find ways to make them shine! 

I could break down the laundry list of specific clothing features that I look for (or rather, should be looking for) to flatter my own figure.  Instead of boring you with the details, I'll simply offer a general checklist that you can easily adapt to fit your own needs.

Shopping Checklist:

Does this piece of clothing work well on its own?  Save yourself the trouble and skip any items that require other items in order to look good!  You should love each article in your closet for what it is.  Allow yourself the simple pleasure of grabbing anything in the morning without too much effort to put it all together.

Can I easily have this altered to fit me better?  An article of clothing might be just what you were looking for, but if the sleeves fall at an unflattering length or the waistline could be let out a touch, you really need to consider whether you are willing and able to make the necessary alterations.  Before leaving the store, I recommend setting an appointment in your calendar to break out the sewing machine or visit your local seamstress.  Some stores, like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, even offer on-site alterations - just ask!

Does this item flatter my body's shape and proportions?  Just because something might look really cute on the mannequin or was featured in your favorite magazine, that doesn't mean that it will necessary work for you.  Try everything on and evaluate whether it accentuates the right curves and balances your proportions.  If you order something online, make sure that you can return it to a store or ship it back for a full refund.  Although a lot of online retailers offer free shipping deals these days, you still need to consider the extra cost to return something if you aren't happy once it arrives.

Consider the print, texture, and construction details. You will look the most put together if you relate the details of your clothing to your personal traits.  Evaluate whether the size and shapes of your prints are in harmony with the size and shapes of your facial features.  Does the texture and weight of the fabric correlate with the texture and weight of your hair or overall stature?  Are the construction details, like pockets and pleats, in proportion to your physical frame and bone structure?  Taking an extra moment to weigh in on some of these concepts will elevate your wardrobe to the next level.

Will this play up my favorite features and/or camouflage my insecurities?  It takes some practice, but eventually you will learn to gravitate towards pieces that highlight your assets and minimize your concerns.  Take it one step at a time and begin by looking at how an individual item relates to those physical features when you're in the fitting room.  Make sure that you have complete confidence before you make the purchase.  If you're unsure about an item, that's the first one that will end up unworn on your bedroom floor in the morning.