How Do Teens Dress That Have a Large Build?
Magazines can make it seem as if all teens are stick figures. However, teenagers of all body types are abundant in the population. As plus-sized model Crystal Renn told "Teen Vogue," everyone has a natural weight that is ideal for her: "We all have different set points," she explained, "so for the media to tell women there's only one size to be and one way to look is ridiculous." Nonetheless, you will look your best if you wear styles that work with your figure instead of against it.
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Correct Size
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Wearing the correct size always looks best. The key to dressing well for your body type -- no matter what that body type is -- is wearing the correct size. If you buy clothing too large, it will tent out and make you appear larger than you are. If you opt for too small, you will bulge in all the places you do not want to. A lot of fashion tips explain how to hide a muffin top -- the dreaded waistline bulge you see too often over jeans -- but if you wear your correct size, you can avoid the dilemma entirely. Even a size 4 can have a muffin top if she wears clothing that is too small. Everything you wear -- jeans, shirts, dresses, skirts and even undergarments -- should be your correct size. If you do not know what your size is, take measurements of your thighs, hips, waist, chest and upper arms. Unfortunately, sizes vary widely by brand, so jot down your measurements and take a look at each company's sizing chart before you buy.
Boxy
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Bodies come in all shapes and sizes and fashion can make or break any type. Females with boxy or rectangular shapes should wear styles that provide the appearance of curves. "Glamour" magazine suggests wearing hip-length jackets with tailored lines, slim-fitting (but not tight!) cardigans that fall at the hips, and shirts that fall at least a couple inches below the belt-line. "Anything that cuts you off at the waist adds pounds. You’ll look slimmer if your top and bottom meet just below the waist," notes "Glamour." For pants and skirts, opt for a medium-rise waistline, and buy the right size. Wear dresses that use curve-enhancing darts and seams and those that cinch right above the waist.
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Curvy
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Accent your curves. If your waist is eight or more inches smaller than your hips, accentuate your curves with high-rise jeans and skirts, waist-cinching dresses and stylish belts. However, if you have a tummy bulge, save the belts for your flowing skirts and dresses. When you wear jeans or slacks, keep the shirt untucked. The best shirts for you are fitted, but not too tight, and ones that fall a couple or more inches below the waistline. If your body is curvy and petite (on the short side), Tracey Lomrantz Lester, writing for "Glamour," insists upon the following looks: A-line skirt with knee-high boots, ideally in similar shades; jersey dresses and belts; and one-toned outfits. If you are busty, accentuate your curves without overdoing it. Invest in a good bra and choose modest shirts -- styles that work on smaller-chested teens are often not flattering on chestier girls. For instance, empire waists must fall below the chest, not across it, or else it will make you appear chunkier. The same goes for wrap blouses -- they must wrap below the chest, not across it. "Teen Style U" suggests V-necks for larger breast teens, since they draw attention to the face.
Own Your Style
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Most important of all, wear clothing that both flatters you and makes you feel good about yourself. Skip the cookie-cutter approach. As Victoria Lewis, writing for "Teen Vogue," puts it: "Personal style is about conveying a part of yourself through your clothes ... What's important is that you choose clothes that express who you are and not just what you see around you." An easy way to do this is through accessories. Scarves, hats and jewelry come in all styles, from classic to funky, and can help express any type of personality.
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