How to Choose Summer Tops That Flatter Your Figure

It's summer. Time to peel off sweaters and long-sleeved shirts in favor of tops that'll keep you cool as the temperatures continue to rise. Whatever your shape, there's a style to play up your assets and downplay your problem areas.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Men's Casual Tops
• Women's Casual Tops

1. Show off toned abs in a belly-baring crop top. Pair a stretch cotton crop with a colorful sarong for a lazy summer afternoon sailing or lounging poolside.

2. Wear half or three-quarter-length sleeves to conceal heavier upper arms. Try a jersey blouse for a dressier option, or a bright cotton T-shirt for a more casual look.

3. Dress up slacks with a fine-gauge knit or embroidered linen shell. To give a straighter figure the illusion of curves, look for ones that gather or tie at the waist.

4. Wear a pastel peasant top with a print slim skirt. To balance full hips, select tops that have a wider cut throughout the body.

5. Enhance a smaller bust with a top that has ruffles, smocking or gathers around the chest area. Minimize a larger bust with a monochromatic V-neck or open-collared shell.

6. Show off sexy shoulders with a halter top or racer-back tank. Or dare to bare it all in the modern tube top, now manufactured with strong elastic top edging and breast support panels.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're an avid gardener, cyclist or runner, you may want to try evening out your tan lines with a self-tanner.
• Apply a thin layer of sunscreen and allow it to dry before putting on any top that bares your shoulders, upper back, chest or arms.