HOW TO CREATE OPTICAL ILLUSIONS TO BALANCE OUT YOUR PERCEIVED BODY SHAPE

HOW TO CREATE OPTICAL ILLUSIONS TO BALANCE OUT YOUR PERCEIVED BODY SHAPE 

by Michael Doorey (Guest Author - FIT Major in Fragrance and Cosmetics) & Dr. Shamil.

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Everyone has a body of a certain shape and we all deserve to look and feel our most confident in it. While you can change the look of your body through weight gain/loss and exercise, people tend to have a general shape due to their genetics. The perception of your body shape by other people can be accentuated or balanced out through creating optical illusions by choosing certain styles, colors and patterns. Of course, wearing what makes you feel attractive comes first, but if you’re looking to find your shape and get an idea of what to wear to look your best, keep reading.

Apple Shape

An apple shape is generally characterized by a heavier and rounder upper body in comparison to your lower body. People with this body type typically big round shoulders, a bigger bust line, and narrow hips. Most of the focus will be towards the upper part of the body since it is fuller in contrast to the waist and hips. To balance this out, try wearing dresses or blouses with a V or deep V neckline. This will give the illusion of an elongated torso and give focus to your waist and hips. Another option is to highlight your legs by wearing flowing skirts or dresses. Color can also help to restore balance. Monochromatic looks can help add cohesion to your overall look. On the opposite side of the spectrum, wearing bright colors or fun prints on your lower body will draw attention away from the upper body and thereby restore balance.

Hourglass Shape

An hourglass shaped body is easy to identify. This shape is characterized by a proportionate top and bottom part of the body with a well-defined waistline. Because there is already some balance this body type is relatively easy to dress and accentuate. Generally, anything form-fitting that hugs your curves will accentuate you. Wearing a sweetheart neckline will bring attention to your upper body while wearing a belt will add emphasis to your lower body. With the advantage of innate balance, an all-over patterned outfit can look great as well as separate colors on the top and bottom.

Pear Shape

A pear-shaped body is almost the opposite of an apple shape. The pear shape is identified by small or narrow shoulders and hips and thighs that are larger than your bust line. If you want to create more balance, try wearing jackets that accentuate your shoulders. Also, skinny jeans with loose tops help to give a more hourglass shape. Wearing brightly colored tops with neutral bottoms will help give the illusion of balance.

Rectangle Shape

A rectangle shape is straightforward. The body is balanced from the shoulders to the hips. There is not much definition to the silhouette and the waistline is not very prominent. With a rectangle shape, your arms and legs are your assets. Shorter skirts and shorts are going to make your legs appear long and lean. Likewise, wearing stacked bracelets and rings are going to draw attention to your arms. Having a well-proportioned body means you can pretty much choose to accentuate whatever you want. Try layering your clothes to fill out certain areas. Alternatively wear sleeveless blouses and dresses to highlight your arms.

Inverted Triangle Shape

An inverted triangle shape is perhaps the most athletic looking body type. This shape is characterized by broad shoulders and a tiny waistline with small hips. Athletic wear will look flattering, but if you wish to balance this out, try wearing full skirts and dresses with a sweetheart neckline and full bottom. For more casual days, try straight-cut jeans and loose-fitting blouses. Wearing brighter colors on your bottom half will bring more attention and give the illusion of balance.

Oval Shape

An oval shape is like a combination of a pear and apple shape in that the hips are wider than the shoulders and bust, but there is less contrast. Oval shapes also have more rounded features. The hips and shoulders are round and feminine, and the waist is not very defined. Wearing square necklines as well as scoop necks is going to give the appearance of a widened torso. A fitted dress will also go a long way in aiding to slim your waist and accentuate your bust.

Knowing your general body shape can help you to know what to look for when shopping. You’ll be able to tell right away whether an item of clothing will be most flattering for you. Keep in mind that this is just a general guide and that your body is unique to you. If you love a certain style, go for it. Nothing looks better than confidence in your own skin.


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