Summer styles for your body type

After looking at the new issue of In Style magazine and getting dressed in a casual skirt and top for my Monday office day, I began thinking about easy summer styles that are best for various body types.

My body type ranges between an inverted triangle and a rectangle, depending on my weight. (When I lose weight, I lose it in my hips first. When I'm a little heavier I'm a rectangle.) The following are some tips for a rectangular body type. (I'll follow up the inverted triangle in my next post.)

• Avoid t-shirts and tank tops that are tight through the torso. You'll only be emphasizing your lack of a waistline.
• This season's loose summer tops were made for you. By wearing t-s that are fitted in the shoulders and flare out through the body, you're completely bypassing your waist and making it appear smaller.
• Your waist will look smaller if you make your hips and upper body appear wider, hence creating an hour glass figure. Consider a belted safari jacket with both breast pockets and hip pockets. (Note: make sure the belt isn't too wide. Fabric belts that tie are great for a wider waist.
• Empire waists tops and dresses with detailing at the bust line bring all of the attention up to your upper body and face. No one will care a hoot about your lack of a waistline. They'll be too busy looking at your beautiful face!

Coats-my necessary evil!

I have to admit, I don’t really like wearing coats. Strange for Colorado, huh? I like looking at coats, but not wearing them. Luckily, contrary to popular belief around the country, there aren’t many days here in the winter that you need a heavy coat. Nevertheless, I’ve found that no matter how hard I try to deny it, we need coats! Last year I was really excited to find a lightweight winter coat. Unfortunately, I learned it’s not warm enough!

So…I found myself coat shopping at the big sale at Macy’s over the weekend. It led me to thinking about what’s important to consider when you’re shopping for a coat. Here are a few thoughts to ponder:

-Do I wear mostly pants or skirts? A car coat is fine if you rarely wear skirts.
-How dressy are most of my clothes?
-What’s my body shape? Will a fitted coat suit me or is an A-Line better for my figure?
-Will I wear jackets and bulky sweaters under my coat? If so, be sure to try the coat on over both.
-What’s my personal style? Am I more sophisticated or sporty?

Here are some great coats:

This one is great for a triangle figure. The double breasted style widens the upper body. The a-line bottom accommodates hips and thighs.

Great for an inverted triangle, the wide sleeves will visually widen the hips, balancing the figure.

This is a simple, sophisticated style that flatters many body types.

What an amazing color! This a a great car coat for business casual and would be hot with dressy jeans and boots.(I put this on my wish list!)

Photos Courtesy: Macy's, Nordstrom