Dress for Your Athletic Body Type

 Athletic body types are well-defined and toned. Even if your shape is muscular or thicker, you can create the illusion of curves wherever you'd like. It's easy with just a few tips and the right attitude, so what's stopping you from using a few of the following tips today?

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: 30-45 minutes

Here's How:

1. Review the characteristics of your athletic shape:

   • Broad shoulders
   • Toned arms
   • A toned tummy without much curve
   • Square hips

   Athletic shapes will have square silhouettes, no matter what their height, and will have a lower ratio of fat to muscle than body types like busty or pear.

2. Look for a shirt that adds feminine curves.

   Try a shirt with some of these details:
   • Don't shy away from sweet details that can add inches to your bustline and make your waist look smaller and more trim. Slight ruffles, a neck tie, or lace can really flatter your torso and give your whole look more feminine appeal.
   • Find a slightly flowing shirt with puffed sleeves to soften arms and shoulders.
   • Wear a shirt with a more blousy effect and a waist tie. Shirts that softly cinch at the waist can add softness to your frame.

3. Find a skirt that adds curves to your frame.

   • Choose a skirt in a slight tulip shape to play up your hips and toned thighs.
   • Try an a-line skirt that will glide over larger hips and thighs, but will show off toned calves.
   • Avoid too many details around the hips if yours are wider. Play them down by choosing a skirt with a few feminine accents around the hemline to balance your curves and draw the eyes to another area.

4. Choose a pair of comfortable jeans for a more casual look.

   • Look into bootcut or wider leg styles to flatter your strong, muscular legs. You can find a pair that are slimmer in the thigh if you prefer, but make sure there a slightly larger opening at the ankle. They'll make your thighs look much smaller.
   • Stay away from skinny jeans. They'll strangle muscular calves and add pounds to an athletic frame.
   • Try not to cuff your jeans. This can make your legs look short and stumpy, especially if you are petite. Make yourself look taller by wearing darker trousers and matching shoes with a pointed toe.

5. Get shoes that slim you.

   • It's possible to look pounds thinner with the right shoes. Wear shoes that are long and lean, not chunky.
   • Stay away from wedges and platforms, which can make your legs look heavy. Flatter your calves with a traditional pump and a slightly thicker heel.
   • If you'd like to highlight tiny ankles, wear t-strap or ankle strap heels with a thin heel.

6. Choose a party dress with ease if you are going out after work.

   • Find a dress with details. Plain dresses won't increase your feminine appeal as will something in delicate silk crepe.
   • Don't forget that feminine doesn't always mean flowers. Look for feminine prints like polka dots, stripes, or other understated geometric shapes.