Stripes are featured on catwalks and in High Street stores season after season. Why? They have a timeless appeal to them whilst also feeling fresh and modern. It’s highly likely that you will already have a stripe or two in your wardrobe.
There is a way to wear stripes to suit all body shapes, however, so just read on to find out how to wear yours…
Straight body shapes
Stripes were made for you! The clean, straight lines of your figure lend themselves perfectly to wearing stripes.
If you have a Rectangle shape then vertical stripes will look great on you. Or maybe try chevron stripes which can add curves. If you have a Lean column shape then wearing mixes of horizontal and vertical stripes will give the illusion of more curves. Or you could combine stripes with a pattern for an ‘on trend’ look, as opposite.
Triangle or Inverted Triangle body shapes
Stripes will work for you too and are great at balancing proportions. If you have a Triangle shape then stripes worn on the top not only create balance with your hips but also draw the attention upwards. If you are an Inverted Triangle then wearing stripes on your bottom half will be perfect – a skirt like the one shown on the left here, with some fullness will balance out your proportions and show off a slim waist.
Curvy body shapes
Stripes can be trickier to wear if you are curvy as straight lines have a habit of kinking over a curve and hence drawing the eye. If you have an Oval body shape choose stripes that are soft, tonal or faded. If you have a Full Hourglass shape opting for alternative patterns that better complement your body shape is the answer – for example, florals would be a great alternative. You could also add a stripey accessory (for example, a scarf or bag) to add a little interest to your look.
Petite or grand?
Don’t forget that you need to select stripes to suit your size too. If your petite, thinner stripes will work best as they won’t overwhelm your frame. If you’re 5’7″ or taller, grand in scale, then you can make a statement with bigger, bolder strips!
How you can wear stripes
… a one-to-one style consultation will tell you everything you need to know about how to wear different patterns, styles and fabrics to suit your body shape – or maybe you’d prefer to learn with other like minded ladies at a Style Workshop? Do get in touch and you too can enjoy wearing the stripes that will suit you best.
Let's talk - call me on 07917 663330 or you can email me at kerrie@kerrieellis.co.uk