In the ephemeral landscape of fashion’s latest, one of the few constants is an oft-punishing exclusivity. As if an invite to Fashion Week or tag on a pair of designer label shoelaces weren’t already exclusive enough, there’s the matter of how your distinct silhouette shapes up in each one of the new season’s trendiest threads. True—when the Hervé Leger bandage dress was ruling the red carpets, and bodycon was the word on everyone’s lips, the body self-conscious among us recoiled in discomfort at the idea of laying it all out there, “it” being one’s every curve (or lack thereof).
But for Fall 2012, bodycon is out, and a revived sense of shape dressing is back in vogue. Indeed, whether your figure is boyish or buxom, the top cuts of Fall are all about playing with the contours of your natural figure, so forget about sartorial exclusivity, and read on for the real exclusive on how to make Fall’s trends flattering for you.
1. Long and Lean: You’re tall and slender from head to toe. Think Karlie Kloss.
How to wear...
The Peplum: Your straight torso is the perfect candidate for an exaggerated peplum. Because you don’t have many curves, the hourglass peplum makes a strong statement on your rectangular frame, cutting out a dramatic waist. Go big here with a dramatic peplum top like this one from Topshop. The peplum was made for you.
The Military Jacket: Stolen from the guys originally, this piece has the potential to really tomboy out your boyish frame. To keep the look feminine, opt for a military jacket tailored to your proportions (not oversized) and subtly cinched in at the waist to create the illusion of one on your slender torso. Try this fitted khaki army jacket from Topshop.
The Side Panel Jean: The panel pant, inspired by the male tuxedo pant, is made for your long, straight figure. Invest in a cropped pair with a neon side stripe to highlight your slim legs. Ensure that the trouser comes all the way to your ankle—panel floods are not the look you’re seeking here as they’ll just end up looking ill-fitted. The right tailoring will make your legs look even longer, if that’s possible. Stand out in this fire engine red side panel jean from Urban Outfitters.
Best on your shape!
The Sheer Blouse: Even with the cooling weather, sheers are seriously in for Fall, and with your slender figure and smaller chest, a sheer blouse won’t look inappropriate on your frame! Wear it with the top two buttons unbuttoned and a black bra for a sexier going-out look, or pair it buttoned to the top with a nude camisole underneath for a high-fashion look by day. This sheer chiffon blouse by One Teaspoon is a Her Campus fave.
