In our wardrobes, prints are a common element of our fashion choices. Some of you feel at ease donning bold and vibrant prints, while others prefer the safety and charm of smaller, spaced-out ditsy prints. However, one shared desire is to break away from the routine of solid colors with the occasional injection of prints. The question that often arises is: How do we determine which types of prints complement different body types?
It’s crucial to remember that fashion has no strict rules, as ultimately it’s a form of self-expression. Nevertheless, if you aim to consistently achieve a stylish appearance, here are some guidelines to consider.
Creating a dependable, go-to wardrobe is one of the simplest ways to effortlessly put together outfits daily. To accomplish this, developing a personal style quotient is key, and occasionally incorporating prints can be a part of that equation. So, how can you go about doing that?
Let’s revisit the concept of body types, but this time, let’s delve into how prints can be matched with them.
- Hourglass:
- Balanced prints, like symmetrical stripes or soft floral patterns, work well. Heavy prints near the bust area should be avoided.
- Opt for prints that accentuate your waist, such as belts or dresses with cinched waists.
- Pear:
- Draw attention upward with brighter prints on tops. Large bold prints are good to increase the volume and creating a visual balance of the top and bottom.
- Opt for A-line or flared skirts in dark colors to balance out your lower half.
- Apple:
- Choose prints that create a vertical illusion, like vertical stripes or patterns.
- Darker prints can be slimming for the midsection.
- If you are a fan of bright prints and would like to wear in skirt then team it up with a solid top, the top can be any one color to be taken from the prints.
- Small but closed dense prints can reduce the appearance of the body
- Having solid colored panels at the sides and print in the middle creates an illusion of shape and slimness to the overall structure.
- Rectangle:
- Create curves with prints that add visual interest to the bust and hips.
- Exaggerated or loose sleeves with printed pants can be a good ensemble
- Go for prints with bold details, such as ruffles, peplums, or gathers.’
- Inverted Triangle:
- Balance your proportions with prints on the lower half.
- Small spaced out prints in the lower part (trouser/ skirts/ shorts)can make the lower part appear fuller.
- A-line or full skirts and pants with wider legs can help create the illusion of fuller hips.
Print on Print:
Now we generally avoid wearing print on prints. Yes let’s admit its a tricky thing to do and we dont want to go into complications. But there is some basic tricks to wear the same and you never know it might look gorgeous. Generally for a printed suit set we break the monotony with a solid blouse inside. But what if we have to match a printed top and printed bottom ?
Here we can play with the space…For eg. A ditsy printed top will look good with a spaced out big printed skirt. Mixing prints with different scales (small, medium, large) can add depth and interest to your outfit. Just ensure that they don’t clash and are visually appealing together. Remember to balance the colors well. A horizontal stripe print will look good with any floral or polka printed bottom. If you’re still uncertain, consider experimenting with prints in the same color family (monochrome). This creates a cohesive look while still incorporating prints. You may incorporate solid-colored accessories or pieces (like a belt or shoes) to break up the prints and provide balance.
Universal Tips:
While understanding your body type is valuable, the fit of the garment can make or break the look. There are some universal tips for choosing prints that apply to all women:
- Scale Matters: Consider your body size when choosing print size. Smaller prints can be more flattering on petite frames. So it’s best to stick to smaller patterns and prints like mini polka dots and thin stripes. Vertical stripes are your best friends as they will help elongate your form when paired with heels. But still if you love bold vibrant prints, balance it with some neutral colors. For taller women larger prints can make a great statement .
- Color Harmony: Pay attention to the colors in the print. Bright, contrasting colors can draw attention, while monochromatic prints can have a slimming effect.
- Placement: Think about where the print is placed on the garment. Strategic placement can emphasize or de-emphasize certain areas.
- Personal Style: Ultimately, your personal style should guide your print choices. Don’t be afraid to experiment and express your unique taste. If you’re new to print mixing, layering is a great way to start. Try a printed blazer or cardigan over a printed dress or pants. It adds depth to your outfit while keeping it more controlled.
Final verdict :
Choosing prints that flatter your body type is a skill that can enhance your self-confidence and overall style. By understanding your body shape and following some universal guidelines, you can make informed decisions when shopping for clothing. Prioritise quality over quantity when selecting prints, opting for ones that withstand washing and resist fading over time…Remember that fashion is meant to be fun and empowering, so embrace your individuality and let your style shine. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your style and comfort. Over time, you’ll develop a sense of what print combinations suit you best and make you feel fabulous.
