About Styles for Short Waists
Do you find that short jackets just don't look right, or that thick belts make your body seem oddly situated? If this is the case, you may be short-waisted. A short waist is a common phenomenon that is easily remedied, especially with the sleek styles of clothing that are now on the market. This article will give you tips on styles that will suit your short waist.
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What Does Short-Waisted Mean?
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A short waist means that you don't have an average, or proportional, measurement between your shoulders and waist. The "proper" proportion would be one that puts the waist about two-thirds of the way down between the hips and shoulder blades. When the waist is halfway, or a bit higher, you're probably short-waisted. Often, short-waisted women have legs that seem very long, or find that wearing a belt brings it almost around the ribcage.
Lengthening the Waist With Belts
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The easiest thing to do to lengthen a short waist is to keep belts thin. That means no chunky leather jobs around the waist, no matter how trendy they may be. Instead, try something like a slouchy, thin belt, as suggested on You Look Fab. According to fashion consultant and webmistress Angie, it's better to do something that drapes downward, because that brings the eye downward as well. In other words, emphasize the hips. Additionally, Czech fashionista and model Noubikko suggests not wearing belts that strongly contrast the top color and blend with the bottom. Instead, contrast your bottom and match the top.
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Jackets That Work
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Short-waisted women are best served keeping away from short jackets and boleros (shrugs are fine). These jackets have hemlines that will cut right across your high waist, or very close to it. Instead, try jackets that end at the hip. Hip-length jackets will bring your body more into proportion. You'll get extra points for finding a jacket with a great hip belt that lies low.
When purchasing suit jackets, find ones that have a longer placket in front, not a short one. Anything that creates a long line is a great idea, and a sharp row of buttons is just the thing.
All About Tops
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When selecting tops, it might be tempting to try on that cropped sweater on sale. Try not to, because the high hem will just emphasize the shortness of your features. Instead, go for something strong and sleek. Cowl-necked tops, with their drape and downward motion, will look great, as will v-neck shirts. Snug, long sheer tees were made just for you. Also try empire waists and loose, boxy tops. The keywords are drape and lengthen, so go for loose or long. Avoid wrap tops--if you belt them around your natural waist, they might not sit properly on your frame.
Other Short Waist Style Tips
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One thing that will assist in your short waist style search is a good bra. Keeping the bust high and supported is paramount, because sagging breasts will create a visual imbalance. Plus, a good bra is healthier for your body and posture, so get a proper fitting.
When purchasing pants, go for things that have a low rise, or as low as you're comfortable going. High-waisted styles can be overpowering. However, high-waisted pencil skirts look good. Why? In this case, the snugness of the skirt emphasizes your legs, making them look long and sleek. Wear a tight shirt up top rather than something billowy, and you'll have a very ritzy, retro appearance.
You can always lengthen things by being monochromatic. For instance, stay away from dresses with a high contrast between the bodice and skirt. Instead, opt for something that's one color or pattern throughout. The only time a two-color design will work is if it involves vertical lines of some form.
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Resources
- Photo Credit 2005 limonada / Creative Commons
