7 Clothing Items That Flatter Every Body
Wardrobe essentials for women that always look great
(This article previously appeared on Grandparents.com.)
What pieces look great on every woman's body at every age? Here are seven sartorial choices that will never let you down:
1. The Wrap Dress
When Diane von Furstenberg designed the wrap dress, she offered women so much more than just the latest thing in fashion — versatility, ease, and an instant hourglass shape to name a few. Today, many brands share in their love of this timeless style. Opt for a bold print to distract the eye from any trouble spots, otherwise the directions here are simple: slip-on, tie-up and go!
Pictured: Printed Wrap-Front Dress
2. The A-Line Skirt
“A-line” is defined as any style that’s fitted at the hips and gradually widens towards the hem. Think of Dior’s 1947 breakthrough “New Look.” The silhouette cinches the smallest part of the waist and grazes over the hips, flattering all shapes and sizes. From classic midi’s to printed knee-length, a-line skirts are instantly slimming.
(MORE: What Looks Good on Boomer Bodies This Season)
3. The Classic White Button-Down
The rules for finding the perfect flattering blouse? Make sure it’s crisp, and not too form-fitting. The criteria doesn’t only score style points: a crisp collar helps to define strong shoulders and works to frame your face, while a looser fit actually helps slim the frame (all while making you look effortlessly Parisian!).
4. Dark Denim Straight-Leg Jeans
Denim is basically part of our DNA. Sometimes, we even wear the true blues on a daily basis. Unfortunately, jeans can get a bad rap (we’re talking about your “mom” jeans). Stick to these guidelines to find your workhorse pair: dark wash, straight leg, mid-rise.
Pictured: NYDJ Marilyn Straight Leg Jean
5. The Schoolboy Blazer
A tailored blazer lends structure to any outfit and any shape. Sharpening your weekend jeans or a staple for the office, this is one of your most wardrobe-friendly pieces. The hemline should land just at the hips for the best fit on any body type, and is most stylish with the buttons left open. Go bold with a signature color, but you also can't go wrong with basic black or charcoal.
(MORE: A Cool Photo Project: Young and Old Swap Clothes)
6. The Trench Coat
One of the chicest items in every woman’s wardrobe should be her tan double breasted trench coat. The reason? This outerwear style flatters everyone, so invest in a style that works for you. An appropriate topper to any outfit, or worn as the centerpiece for an outdoor event, you’ll never stop having reasons to wear it.
Pictured: Convertible Waterproof Trench
Price: $80
Available at: LLbean.com
7. Nude Heels
Nothing helps to elongate your leg line like a pair of single-sole pointy-toed nude pumps. The heel height is your choice, no matter what this silhouette makes you appear taller and slimmer when matched to pants, skirts, or dresses.
Grandparents.com is a lifestyle website, social media community & peer group that unites & connects America's 70 million Grandparents to the best information and premier products & services just for them. Our goal is to promote well-being and give timely information on what really matters to you, from health and money to family and relationships to travel and retirement.
