Styles for Short Busty Women
Short and busty women have a wonderful array of styles that are likely to flatter their frames. Let’s look at some of the choices out there to help you with the fashion finds that will feel just right for you.
Give Yourself the Gift of Support
Every outfit starts with foundation garments, especially for short busty women. Has it been a while since you have surveyed your dresser's bra and panty drawers? If so, do a quick inventory. Do you have enough of what you need? Are there worn items that are best discarded? Does everything fit? If it has been a while since you have been fitted for a bra, would it be a good idea to be refitted? Many bra manufacturers suggest that if it has been a year or more or you have lost or gained 10 pounds or more or gone through a pregnancy to have a professional remeasure you. Most lingerie stores and intimates’ departments offer this service and will accommodate your comfort level in discussing and measuring bras. If this doesn’t feel like a good fit, get out your handy tape measure and follow the instructions in a women’s sizing guide to double-check your current size.
Panties that fit and are comfy are important, too! Make sure that the size, fabric, and styles in your wardrobe make you look and feel great. Shapewear is another matter of choice. Some women swear by it, and others prefer to skip it altogether. Keeping your current measurements (with the date) handy in your smartphone can be helpful when shopping for foundation garments.
Terrific Tops
As a busty woman, you can wear any style of top you choose. However, to get the style and comfort you crave, why not try out different options to see what you like best? V-necks can look great on busty women, but you will want to make sure that the “V” isn’t either too shallow or too deep for your taste. Petite tops can be helpful here. When thinking about cute tops, also keep in mind how you will move in them and what level of coverage you prefer. Some tops are just better for bending over in than others. If you are looking for a simple silhouette that will give you optimal coverage, consider a petite boat neck top that skims your body (not too loose or too tight but just right).
Body length and sleeve length are also important for petite women’s tops, too. When you try on a top, where does the bottom hem hit your frame? Petite sizes will give you an edge in finding a flattering line with respect to this but don’t overlook a quick hemming job to take a great top from almost fitting to a fabulous fit. Be intentional about sleeve length, too. A lovely option to consider is wearing tops with ¾-length sleeves. If you prefer short or long sleeves, make sure that they land on your upper arm or wrist in flattering ways (or hem them so they do). Sleeveless tops can also be a great option. You can go sleeveless or add a petite cardigan or a petite blazer for extra warmth.
Petite Pants Primer
To hem or not to hem? With today’s choices for petite-sized pants and different inseam lengths, it is much easier to be a petite woman and get clothes that fit than it was in our mother’s generation. That said, you will want to ensure that your petite pants fit you evenly from the waist to the hem. Are you petite and short-waisted or petite and long-waisted? When you try on pants, they should fit your beautiful body. Just shortening the inseam doesn’t always accomplish this. When in doubt, try on different styles and sizes, buy the one that is closest to your ideal size (and has a little extra fabric in spots instead of being too tight), and then either DIY alter them or ask your dry cleaner or neighborhood alterations shop to take the job over the finish line.
Savvy Silhouettes
Most of us prefer to create a smooth silhouette. If you like petite dresses, great! They can be a one-stop fashion solution (just add sandals or shoes!). You’ll want your dresses to lay flat against your frame and give you the head-to-toe silhouette you crave. A-line skirts are a classic option that looks and feels breezy for warm weather.
For pants and tops, you’ll want to think about how they will both fit your frame and work together to create a lovely silhouette. Perhaps you would like to try boot-cut jeans or wide-leg pants. If you like the idea of elongating your leg, consider wearing long dark pants with shoes that match your pants. If you like a heel, you could go for full-on high heels, kitten heels, or booties. Of course, classic ballerina flats are also pretty and can be easier for walking.
With a bit of experimentation, you will find just the look for both style and comfort. Now, go try out some new possibilities!