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Dressing Pear Shapes
I've recently taken a couple of clients shopping that have been rather on the pear shaped side of things. It's tricky to find trousers to fit this shape correctly, especially when there is a big difference between the waist and hip size. I'm always surprised by the fact that a lot of designers don't quite seem to have cottoned on to this yet, as there are many, many women out there with this shape!
When I have found a great style, I've bought it again and again when personal shopping with my clients. I find higher waisted ones are more suited to pears, and side zips are more flattering but not essential. It's best to look for the ones without pockets - if you really can't find these then tack the pockets down so they don't gape and add bulk to the hips. I'm sure most pear shaped girls know that a wide leg is most flattering, and luckily for winter 2008, there's loads of these about with high waists in the fabulous 40's style. Beware of the pleat fronts though - they're generally not the most flattering.
The places I've found that seem to do the most flattering shapes are Hobbs, Nicole Farhi, or Fenn Wright & Manson for more evening floppy styles, and I recently found some nice ones in Warehouse.
And if your trousers fit everywhere else but need a nip or tuck here and there, it is well worth getting alterations done on them for that perfect fit.
In terms of shoes, if you also have chunky ankles then steer clear of anything too delicate and strappy as it will be too much of a contrast. And be sure to say a definite "no" to anything with an ankle strap that cuts your leg in half! A shoe that finishes lower down the foot is more flattering and makes legs look longer, which in turn means slimmer! If you have extra wide calves head to Duo on Savile Row for your winter boots, as they do them with a choice of calf sizes - genius!
For the younger ladies, empire line dresses over leggings (make sure they cut across your slimmest part - either just below the knee or ankle) can be very flattering - or you could try wearing skinny jeans under them too, for a casual, hip hiding, funky look! Remember to always balance out your top half with more detail to draw your eye upwards. You can do this with patterned tops, epaulettes or lace detailing or an eye catching necklace.
Happy shopping!
Author: Sarah Gilfillan
Dated: Wednesday, 30 July 2008
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