Flattering Your Bod

By Jasmyne Pope

The fashion world is constantly creating new looks and revamping timeless trends to keep us fashion-forward kids fresh.  But let’s be real for a minute; every look is not suited for every body.  Nothing sucks more than wanting to pull something off and feeling like you can’t.  The truth is, you can.  There are times when it feels like your body is your biggest fashion obstacle, but it can only be that if you let it.  A big part of fashion is knowing what to wear to flatter your figure.  Bodies come in all different shapes and sizes: some of us are short, some tall, some full-figured, and some of us nearly shapeless.  Many of the styles most difficult to wear well are skinny jeans, high-waisted jeans, and tunics. 

For guys and girls, skinny jeans pose problems for those of us who weren’t blessed with long, lean legs.  If you are short or have bigger legs, it can be difficult to pull this look off in a flattering way.  If you are short, try your skinny jeans with heeled boots or pumps to lengthen your legs, or look for ‘skinnies’ that are meant to stop at the ankle (on a longer leg). 

If you have stockier legs (or if you feel that yours do not taper like the skinny jeans), try tight straight leg jeans.  They will give you the look while skimming over things, not suffocating them.  Another concern in the jeans department is high-waisted jeans.  An undefined waist or tummy bulge make this trend tough to pull off.  Instead of tucking in a tank or tee, try a billowy blouse with a bold print to focus the attention on your top half and not your middle. 

Tunics are another hot item these days; they go great with tights, leggings, and jeans.  There are multiple styles, but that means it can be difficult to pick out the one that’s right for you. A general rule: the tunic should cover the bottom of your butt.  If it doesn’t, it’s not a tunic, it’s a shirt.  The baby-doll style is great for girls with a small bust and/or straight hips; it will create curves.  On girls with a larger bust, the baby-doll tops makes you look larger than you are (a.k.a pregnant).  Go for a something with more of a straight cut.  That way, it won’t look like you’re hiding anything. 

Now what you need are a few good shopping suggestions.  Citizens of Humanity makes a great straight-legged jean (Ava).  They run around $160 and can be found at Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue in Boston.  Urban outfitters (especially online) is a great place to look for flattering blouses.  They offer a copious selection in multiple styles and patterns.  For tunics galore, check out Forever 21.  The selection is practically endless, and the cost is low.  You can visit Forever 21 online or at their store in Natick, Mass. 

Keep it fresh!  And remember, flattering your bod’ is only a way to flaunt it.