The 10 best ways to disguise a pear shape!

We are all blessed with different body types and it always a good idea to know how to dress for your figure.  Today we are going to explore how best to dress the pear shaped figure.

How do you know if you have a pear shape?

A woman with a pear shaped figure is proportionately larger in the lower mid-section (hips to thighs) than they are in the upper torso (bust and shoulders). Pear shaped figures generally have the following characteristics:

• curvy hips, thick thighs, and a full derriere!
• small bust
• narrow shoulders
• a defined waist

When you have a pear shaped figure you ideally want to make the top half of the body look bigger to help balance out the lower half.  There are some excellent tricks to do this – let us show you some of our favourite ways!

1 De-emphasize the hip area

This is your overall goal.  Avoid bulk and choose dark colours to create a slimming effect.

2 Draw attention to the upper torso

Choose garments that have detailing at the neckline and shoulders. This will draw the eye away from your lower half. A wide and interesting collar is terrific.

Accessories are also a great distraction. Go for a short statement necklace, wear some statement earrings and wear a scarf wide around the neck.

3 Choose tops to make your upper torso look wider

You want to widen your upper torso. Look for horizontal stripes, bold bright colours and larger prints. A boat neckline will create the illusion of broader shoulders. Bust enhancing necklines like the scoop, square or sweetheart neckline will also work well. If you are comfortable wearing strapless it too will be flattering – you can always pop a cardi over the top. Ensure that your top will skim and not cling to your hips. Breast pockets are always a good feature to look for when choosing a top. Garments with shoulder pads are very good for balancing out a pear shape – that’s why blazers are an excellent style to wear, especially double breasted blazers!

4  Wear layers

To be honest, layering is your friend no matter what your figure type. Why it works especially well for the pear shape is that you will disguise the waistline and help even out the hips and thighs. Sleeveless vests are good.

5 Go for wider sleeves

Woo hoo! This season’s fashion is perfect for you! Look out for kimono styles and bell sleeves. The volume of fabric in wider sleeves will make your upper torso appear bigger, creating the illusion that your hips and thighs are smaller than they actually are. You can also create volume by rolling or scrunching up longer sleeves and by wearing 3/4 sleeves.

6  Choose the right pants

The best pant styles for you are the straight leg or a pant which is slightly flared towards the hem.

7  Go for longer skirts

You want to draw the eyes away from your hip area. The shortest skirt you can wear will be just above the knee. Look for skirts with volume at the hem, like an a-line or circle skirt.  Skirts with a hemline border print or detailing are also ideal.

8  Wear a frock