(Fashion)

The Most Flattering Summer Staples For Your Body Type

by Laura Lajiness Kaupke

It’s a fact that certain silhouettes flatter your shape better than others, and rare is the trend or item that’s one-size-fits-all. While we’re all for wearing whatever you feel most confident in, we also know the struggle of navigating the market for styles that work best for your figure. And in summer, when it’s hot AF, it’s hard enough to dress in clothes that actually feel comfortable, let alone pieces that simultaneously look good. So, we did the legwork and culled gorgeous summer staples that highlight specific assets and shapes, including a bigger bust, a petite frame and an athletic build. Shop our edit ahead—summer looks good on you.

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Your Summer Best

Go for open necklines, like a wrap silhouette or tops with a semi V-shape. They have enough fabric to support the girls without squishing them or showing too much cleavage.

Go for volume up top to give the illusion of curves. Ruffles and frills are the perfect of-the-moment way to do so.

Accentuate your waist with details that highlight your narrowest point but continue to elongate your frame. Look to subtle ruching and asymmetrical accents for a current feel.

Capitalize on legs for days with exaggerated, wide-legged pants or asymmetrical hems that create a focal point.

Cascading hems that start mini, and taper their way down the leg give the illusion of length in the dress and skirt departments. When it comes to pants, cropped silhouettes with a higher waist are similarly illusory.

Feminine silhouettes are a great way to soften muscles. Look for pieces that cinch at the waist and create a ladylike shape with asymmetrical ruffles or sleeves that have some movement.

Show off your gorgeous curves with tops that fit the bodice and have a flouncy finish at the hem. Two-piece sets that draw in at the waist and flare out over the hips are a knock-out.

A cropped silhouette showcases your slimmer upper half. When it comes to dresses, look for details on top to draw the eye up, as a bottom piece with movement smoothly sails over hips and thighs.

Tiered silhouettes flow away from your midsection, drawing eyes to a different focal point, whether it’s a slinky camisole or voluminous dress.

Shorter silhouettes flatter tiny frames. A little extra volume on hems and sleeves positively amplify without looking as though you’re drowning in fabric.

Extended lines flatter your lengthy middle. Look to longlined all-in-ones like jumpsuits or bodices with fitted waists.

Avoid bunching by opting for pieces that skew minimal at your middle. A jumpsuit with a peek-a-book center, or fitted top that can tuck into high-waisted bottoms elongate your shape.