How to dress: For your bust and shoulders

We should all learn to accept and be proud of our bodies but here are some tips to help you to make the most of what you do have, and to improve on what you don’t.

oinimise broad shoulders by drawing the eye away from the shoulder area. Good options include monochrome jackets with narrow lapels, flared sleeves and vertical, rather than horizontal necklines. Avoid boxy styles, shoulder pads, detail on the shoulder and bust area, and anything that fits tightly across the bust or shoulders.

Flatter rounded or sloping shoulders by choosing dresses or tops with puffed or capped sleeves, which will visually widen your shoulders. Wearing a blazer or jacket with small shoulder pads will also help to add structure across the shoulders. Take note of where the shoulder seam lies – tops that fall off the shoulder will emphasise your rounded shoulders. Choose a v-neck as it creates angles rather than circles.

oinimise a large bust with square-neck tops, tank tops and halter styles that cover the chest area. Avoid low-cut, V-neck, spaghetti-strap and tube-top styles. These will only draw more attention to the bust area. Layering tops with an open blouse can also help. Choose sporty swimsuits that cut in at the shoulders and give higher chest coverage.

Maximise a small bust by investing in a well-fitted padded bra. Don’t discount a plunging neckline – it’s possible to create more of a cleavage by highlighting with eyeshadow. Look for tops with details or added volume at the neckline and bust. Ruffles, gathers, scarves, horizontal stripes and lighter colours up top are all good options. Avoid flat or plain styles.