February, the month where we seek heavy meals to keep us warmly fulfilled, and snowfall is problematic by excusing our workouts. This is the key month where our motivation starts to decrease and our desire to dress nice and look well, is pushed to the back burner. The solution is simple, yet a challenge for many which we can observe throughout our travels: learn to dress properly for your shape! Whether you are aware of your own body and body shape or not, there are a few secrets which can be applied despite the varying range. Incorporate these simple yet mindful tips into your wardrobe and dress everyday like a more fresh and confident you!

1. Re-learning your lights and darks: Lighter upper, darker lower, or lighter bottom and darker upper – key lines to remember when matching tops with bottoms, dependent on your specific silhouette. If you’re top heavy, opt for a more sultry and somber shirt, while if you’re bottom heavy, a light pastel or cream tunic will help slim the middle section. Avoid any flashy, shiny, or loud prints, as they will only attract the wrong kind of attention to your worrisome areas.

2. Legs for days: A slim fitting, straight-legged trouser can do wonders. Adding depth and dimension, while lengthening your leg, a black or dark blue jean or dress pant is an essential. The length should fit at least halfway down your ankle; therefore you’re adding an extra inch or two to your height. Avoid cropped or “cigarette” pants at all costs.

3. Pretty in Peplum: Peplum, she’s your best friend. The Peplum waist is a remaining top trend from 2012 and it’s back for spring and here to help even the most simplified outfits look flattering. The flirty, skater skirt-like waist hides any mishaps happening around the waistline. Pair up a peplum shirt with a pair of jeans, or a peplum skirt with embellished tank.

4. Less is more: There’s no denying the influctuation of bold, large graphic and geometric prints, which have been inspiring the most influential designers around the world. When it comes to translating this trend off the runway and onto the streets, select a tighter print of a smaller shape. This will give off a more proportionate look than oversized prints.

5. Underneath It All: Undergarments may be worn underneath, but they in fact show and attract more attention than our clothes overtop if not fitted properly. Wearing too tight of a bra can leave unnecessary bulges and lumps, and nobody likes to see panty lines, that’s for sure. Have somebody fit you at a lingerie store, to ensure you’re buying the right size.

6. Tip-Top Tailor: That Tailor just down that road that you bypass on your everyday outings…use him. Nothing that is too long, or too big is ever flattering, and if you’re spending the money on clothes that bring you happiness, the fit should as well! Tailors don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg to get the job done. You could even invest in a mini travel sewing kit if you’re slightly skilled on your own. A little nip n’ tuck is all that’s needed.

1. Gray Jeans Brand Casual Trousers, Image Courtesy of AliExpress
2. Oscar Gown Colour Wheel, Image Courtesy of Jezebel
3. Peplum Craze, Image Courtesy of Fashion Gourmet
4. Trend Report: East Meets West, Image Courtesy of Team Peter Stigter
5. How To Buy The Right Bra, Image Courtesy of Fabulous&Frugal
6. Tailor Tustin, Image Courtesy of Tustin Magazine

By: Jenn McNaughton, Toronto

You should follow me on Twitter @jennmcnaughton.

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