When educating a client on how to best flatter her body type, one of the most frequent questions I am asked is, “How do you know all of this?” Like most stylists, the majority of my experience comes from having worked in fashion. However, you needn’t have a job in fashion in order to be an expert on fitting your own body. There are a number of references that can help you to understand your body’s shape, and the best ways to maximize your assets and minimize your flaws.
One of my favorites is “What Not to Wear” by Trinny Woodall & Susannah Constantine, the hosts of the BBC’s original “What Not to Wear”. This book lays it out so simply that even the most fashion-challenged woman can easily follow along. With chapters simply titled, “Big Butt” or “Flabby Tummy”, they tell you the best – and worst – clothing for each problem area, complete with photos that illustrate exactly what they mean. At the end of each chapter, they also suggest which retail stores carry the best clothing for your body type.
Another great book is by the hosts of the American version of “What Not to Wear”, Stacey London & Clinton Kelly. Titled “Dress Your Best”, they focus more on the “dos” than the “don’ts”. Getting slightly more specific with the body types – i.e. “Bigger on the Bottom, Tall” – they include outfit suggestions for work, evening and weekend. While Trinny & Susannah’s book is strictly for women, Clinton & Stacey’s book gives a little help to the guys, too.
Both books available on amazon.com
- Jessica
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