How to balance a rectangle. You need to define your waist and elongate the upper torso area, especially if you’re short-waisted. overall, try to emphasise your shoulder line and create curvesthrough the waist and hip area. As an alternative, you can opt for drapey loose tops worn with skinny pants.
Best topsTapered, tailored shirts will define your waist – they can look great untucked over slim pants. Try a V-neck cardigan worn unbuttoned over a silky camisole or singlet. Sleeveless tanks with u or V-necks are a wardrobe basic, but choose wide-set straps. Experiment with wide scoop and boat-necks.
Best jackets and coatsYou’ll like yourself in classic single-breasted, shaped jackets that button lower down. Look for minimal shoulder padding and medium width lapels. Belted cardigans can be worn with the tie low on your waist.
For a classic coat, try a style that falls from your shoulder line. you’ll always feel good in a knee-length trench, straight or slightly flared, with a belted waist. Short jackets that end on or slightly above your waist can be worn with a long, fitted top underneath.
**Best pants
**You can wear most styles, but only choose wide, palazzo pants if you’re reasonably tall. If you have a short waist or fuller middle, avoid high-waisted styles. long, lean styles – cropped or full length – are best teamed with a monochromatic or tonal top.
Accentuate your waist with shaped waistbands and belts.
Best skirtsLook for yoked styles with tiers, soft gathers or pleats. Also try godet styles made with triangular-shaped panels that are widest at the hem. A-lines in firm and soft fabrics are a safe bet. If you want to add subtle volume and curves to your hips, try a soft wrap style.
Best dressesA knee-length shirt dress with an A-line skirt is timeless. Semi-fitted shifts, knee-length or just below, can be dressed up or down – look for A-line cuts in soft fabric, semi-fitted through the torso with a flare at the hem. Wrap dresses are great for those with average-length waists. For glamour moments, slip into a halter neck dress with a deep V.
Best avoidedAnything that clogs up your middle – gathers or pleats around the waist; boxy, banded jackets; shapeless knits; too much texture.
AccessorisingYour handbag should be harmonious with your shape. If you’re angular, choose an angular bag. Choose jewellery that isn’t obviously round – think oval or softened straight.
Top tipYour straight silhouette lends itself to layering. Ensure your top is longer than your widest point.
Find out more about your style personality and working with colour.
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