Dressing a column body shape can be a rewarding experience when you know the right techniques and styles to enhance curves and define your waist. Women with a column body shape often have a silhouette that feels less curvy, but thoughtful tips can transform your appearance, making you feel confident in your clothing. By understanding your body type and strategically choosing garments that add volume and softness, you can showcase your natural beauty.
Knowing how to dress your body is the first step in the journey to finding the most flattering clothes for a column shape. Let’s explore how to create the illusion of curves, accentuate your waist, and feel amazing in your outfits.
Goals When Dressing
The main goals to focus on when dressing a column body shape include:
Creating the Illusion of Curves: Use clothing that adds dimension and shape.
Defining or Mimicking a Waistline: Choose styles that emphasize your natural waist.
Adding Volume or Softness: Opt for details that enhance specific areas.
Using Structure and Layering: Build shape with careful layering techniques.
Each of these goals is essential for achieving a balanced and flattering look. By addressing these points, you can enhance your features beautifully.
Best Clothing Styles
Tops
When selecting tops, look for styles that add volume or attract attention to your upper body and waist. Peplum tops, for instance, create a defined waistline while enhancing your curves. Wrap tops are another excellent choice, often featuring a V-neckline that flatters the neck and slims the upper body.
Don’t shy away from details like ruffles or puff sleeves. These elements can add volume to your shoulders and bust for a more feminine silhouette. Structured blazers with nipped-in waists can effectively create a defined waist. Cropped tops or tie-front blouses help emphasize the waist, breaking the straight lines typical of a column body shape. As a rule of thumb, tucking your tops into high-waisted bottoms can further enhance your waist definition.
Bottoms
Choosing the right bottoms is crucial for enhancing your overall look. High-waisted pants and skirts can define your waist and elongate your legs, resulting in a more graceful appearance. Many women also feel more confident in high-waisted styles, as they provide both comfort and structure.
A-line skirts or flared trousers can add shape to your hips, balancing your upper body. Cargo pants with pocket detailing can build volume around the hips, creating a more rounded silhouette. Wide-leg pants or culottes are also an excellent option for introducing more volume to your lower half, effectively balancing your proportions.
Dresses
Dresses offer a fantastic way to create the illusion of curves. Wrap dresses, particularly popular among column body shapes, highlight the waist and bust, enhancing your natural curves. Belted dresses cinch the waist effectively and prevent a boxy look.
Fit-and-flare styles fit snugly at the top and flare out at the bottom, creating a visually appealing shape. Empire waist dresses are another great option as they sit just under the bust and offer both length and style.
Jackets & Outerwear
Outerwear plays an important role in your overall look. Tailored blazers that taper at the waist add a polished finish while defining your silhouette. Cropped jackets draw attention to your waist, enhancing your curves. Trench coats with belts are another excellent choice, instantly defining your shape and serving as versatile pieces in your wardrobe.
Fabrics & Patterns
The choice of fabrics and patterns can significantly influence how your outfit fits and flatters your shape. Soft fabrics like jersey, silk, and chiffon drape elegantly over your body without adding stiffness that can emphasize straight lines. It is essential to select materials that move with you while ensuring comfort.
In terms of patterns, horizontal stripes and bold prints can add dimension to your look. Color-blocking at the top or bottom can provide visual interest. Avoid boxy, shapeless cuts, as these styles tend to exaggerate the straightness of a column body shape.
Shoes & Accessories
The right shoes and accessories can enhance your overall appearance. Heels, particularly pointed-toe or strappy options, can elongate your legs and elevate your style. Choosing shoes that add height contributes to the illusion of curves and beautifully frames your figure.
Accessorizing wisely is crucial. A belt can cinch the waist effectively, while bold, eye-catching jewelry draws attention to your upper body, highlighting your best features.
Embracing Your Style Journey
Mastering how to dress a column body shape involves choosing styles that create curves and define your waist. Focus on tailored tops, strategic bottoms, flattering dresses, and thoughtfully selected outerwear to elevate your style. By paying attention to fabrics and patterns that add dimension, you can avoid those that exaggerate straight lines.
Dressing your body type can be both enjoyable and creatively fulfilling. Explore various outfits that align with your personal style and truly express who you are. Remember, confidence is your best accessory. Happy styling!
