Contrary to what a lot of people may think you CAN look great on a budget.I find that the key is not spending lavishly on designer labels,but spending on the right kind of clothes to flatter your body .In the words of Coco Chanel “fashion is a thing of proportion” .The most important styling rule that often shoppers forget to consider before buying clothes is their body type.Because no two bodies are exactly the same we tend to make the mistake of thinking that clothes we see on mannequins or the runway will look equally as good on us.Now before I continue let me first explain that there is a reason most models are that small,its because their frame allows a large variety of clothes to hang on them.This makes it easy for them to pull off a large spectrum of clothes..but because we cannot all be size 2’s doesn’t mean we can’t have clothes look great on us too. The key to picking out clothes that will best suit your body is first of all knowing your body shape.I’m going to use the common “fruit and shape” method to classify various body types.Again body shape has nothing to do with size all these shapes come in variations of big and small.

Rectangle/Banana

This shape is characterized with a shoulder to hip ratio that is pretty equal,toned muscles,few curves,and great legs.Banana-shaped women’s waist measurement is less than 9 inches smaller than the hip or bust measurement and they’re usually considered athletic,long and lean. Therectangle shape can get away with a lot of pant styles,and you also don’t have to worry about how baggy clothes look on you ,in fact baggy clothing will create the effect of curves.You should also be weary of the bra types you decide to go with.It cannot be emphasized enough that wearing the right bra will really work in your favor. Clothing item suggestions are high necks,bishop collars or pussy-bow’s ,skinny belts,pleated or gathered skirts,ruffles and chunky statement jewelry.

Apple/Upward Triangle

This shape is characterized by a significant heavier upper body, broader shoulders arms and bust followed by slimmer hips ,thighs and legs .with this body type you want to define the waist as much as possible.Again try skinny belts,wrap tops/dressesyou’ll also look best with lower necklines like V’s, scooped necks, cowl necks, open shirt collars and boat necks. The lower neckline helps to accentuate the long lean line.invest in flared jeans and prints as solid colors don’t camouflage as well. Choose tops and jackets that catch you just below the pelvis and select subtle shoulder pads you also want to avoid high necks and ruffles on the bodice.

Pear/Downward Triangle

This is in theory the reverse of the apple shape.Wider hips and thighs which may extend to the midriff, but generally narrow shoulders and arms.With this body type it is essential that the top half of the body is balanced out,try wearing solid colors at the bottom then prints or patterns on the top,accessorize with a scarf around your neck,wear tunic dresses and don’t be afraid to experiment with the more dramatic shoulder styles.

Hourglass

Hips to bust measurements are somewhat equal, defined slimmer waist.Weather you’re a top or bottom heavy hourglass figure you want to always define your waist.Wear dresses and tops that are cinched in at the waist, skinny belts, v-necks. You don’t want to go for an empire line (which is a seam that cuts you just below the bust) it will only make your bust look fuller avoid low rise jeans high necks and ruffles around the bodice.

If you’re still not exactly sure what your body type is just measure yourself with a measuring tape following the tips in the comprehensive guide above .After taking your body measurements click on this body shape calculator link http://goo.gl/0hK4k to calculate your body type.Now remember you may not fall directly into one of these four categories. I myself am an hourglass with rectangle tenancies,which is perfectly ok. All you need to do is follow the rules that apply to your individual proportions. Shop wisely and good luck!

-TSG