Shape shopping

Shape shopping

Black may be the backbone of your wardrobe, but don’t be afraid to play with colour. Fuchsia is surprisingly sophisticated and easy to mix into your regular ensembles. Pair simple separates with a burst of this rosy shade for a quick style refresher

By Kate Daley; styling by Claire Murray; photographs by Tracy Shumate

Petite

A high-waisted skirt elongates legs and makes a focal point of your cinched waistline. A cropped cardigan works well on a petite frame, adding interest and balance.

Top, by Pure Alfred Sung, $17, sizes XS–XL.
Sweater, at Old Navy, $25, sizes XS–XL.
Skirt, by Liz Claiborne, $89, sizes 4–16.
Leather bag, at Winners, $160.
Shoes, by Madden Girl, at Town Shoes, $55, sizes 6–10.
Rock some flirty heels with ruffle details.

Pear

Wear your wrap cardie loose — vertical draping lengthens the torso and flows nicely over
your midsection. Long, flared jeans balance out fuller hips.

Tank, by Jones New York Signature, $75, sizes S–XL.
Cardigan, by Tristan, $59, sizes S–XL.
Jeans, by Jones New York Sport, $99, sizes 4–16.
Heels, at H&M, $60, sizes 5–9.
Clutch, by French Connection, $58.
A generous clutch complements your proportions — and holds more lip gloss.

Busty

A black, feminine blouse is always slimming. Tuck it in to define your middle and pair it with a vivid
skirt to draw the focus away from your chest.

Blouse, by Esprit, $60, sizes XS–XL.
Skirt, by Spanner, $119, sizes 2–18.
Purse, by Belgo Lux, $25.
A metallic hint gives this ladylike look some edge.
Shoes, by Kenneth Cole, $210, sizes 6–10.

Apple

Delicate pleating and a narrow belt give flattering definition to the waist of a classic fitted dress, while a scoop neckline worn with a colourful scarf draws the eye up.

Dress, by Nine West, $169, sizes 2–16.
Belt, at Gap, $25, sizes S–L.
Shoes, at Mango, $119, sizes 6–9.
Scarf, at RW&Co., $15.
Brighten up your face with flattering fuchsia.

Tall and slim

A silk shirt with a tie at the neck is effortlessly sexy without being revealing. Paired with tailored cream pants, it’s ready for work and play.

Silk top, by Baia Black, $155, sizes 2–16.
Pants, at Melanie Lyne, $145, sizes 4–16.
Bag, by French Connection, $68.
Ballet slippers, at Gap, $45, sizes 6–10.
Add a punch of pattern with these feet-friendly houndstooth flats.