Tyrina Talks Fashion
Dressing for Your Shape: Shine Bright Like a Diamond
By Tyrina Neely
Nov 16, 2012 - 2:05:27 PM


Sometimes all we need is a little nudge in the right direction to get us up and running. So here’s another installment in the “Dressing for Your Shape” series to get you on the right path before you start your holiday shopping.

Depending on which wardrobe specialist you speak with, there are a number of ways to describe and classify  a female’s figure. I prefer geometric shapes that everyone can easily visualize. We’ve covered the inverted triangle, triangle, oval and rectangle body types. This week is dedicated to the diamonds.

How to Tell if You Have a Diamond Shaped Body:

A diamond shaped body is easily identifiable. Examine your shoulders, waist, hips and thighs. Those with a diamond shape will have narrow shoulders and bust when compared with the rest of their body. Their weight concentration will be in the midriff around the waist and the upper hips.

Pros:

Your angular and proportionate face, neck and bust are your strong points.

Cons:

The greatest challenge for one with a diamond body type is the extra weight around the tummy and hips. This also means that in most cases you do not have a defined waistline.  


How to dress this shape:

The main focus is creating balance by visually playing up the shoulders and masking the width in the midsection to create a hour glass silhouette.

Shoulders and neckline:

• This is where you want to add volume and balance out the wider midsection. Draw the eye up with an open neckline such as a V-neck or scoop neck. These styles are flattering because they place the focus on the face, neck and bust which are your best features.
• Embellished necklines with beading, sequins, embroidery or ruffles will also draw attention to your face and neck.
• Look for tops with sleeves, as the sleeves will extend the shoulder line and add volume to your upper half, helping to offset your wider midsection. Puff sleeves, kimono style tops and empire waist tops will all help create the balance you need.
  
• It is important to remember to wear tops that are the right length. Tops that are too short “break-up” your figure and visually create bumps and lumps, especially on a diamond shaped frame. The bottom of your top should hit you at the widest part of the hips. The goal is to create smooth flowing lines and accentuate curves.
  

Midsection:

• You biggest mistake would be trying to wear clothing that completely tents your tummy.

• Because your natural waistline is not defined due to the fullness of your tummy, opt for empire waist tops and dresses. These will be fitted on you just under the bust where a women is narrowest, and then flare away from the body in a shape that resembles an upside down “v.”

• When wearing a voluminous top, slim fit or slightly boot cut pants work best – fitted at the hips with a very slight flare throughout the leg.

• Knee length A-line skirts are also flattering. They are fitted at the hips and then flare out toward the knee.

 
Knowing your body type is half the battle. Clothing is an invaluable tool in creating the silhouettes you want by highlighting certain features and visually masking others.

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