H SHAPE GUIDELINEs

H SHAPE GUIDELINEs

GOAL

  • Refocusing attention from your middle to your legs or face, and creating one long vertical.

BASIC “RULES”

  • Use details above the bust and below the knee to create shape

  • Keep your clothing line straight and go for an uncluttered look

  • Fabrics that drape but don’t cling

  • Monochromatic outfits

H SHAPE TIPS

WHAT TO AVOID

  • Details at the waist

  • Belted dressed, tops and coats

  • Belts in contrast to your outfit

  • Tops, coats or dresses with waistbands or anything that cinches

THE DETAIL…

JACKETS

  • Single-breasted – semi-fitted that is mid-hip in length or longer

  • Keep all detailing vertical, a deep V neck will elongate the torso

  • AVOID double breasted or belted styles and cropped jackets that end at your tummy

TROUSERS/JEANS

  • Man-tailored, flat front side or back zip trousers, straight from waist to hem, or a slight flare at the hem. Wide legs or flares can work if you’re of average height or taller

  • AVOID tapered styles, patch pockets on the hips, diagonal pockets and waist-detailing

  • Trouser cut jeans - look for mid rise, straight leg styles, flares or wide legs

  • High or angled back pockets work well

SKIRTS

  • Godet, trumpet, paneled, gored, straight or A-line will work especially without a waistband

  • Choose floaty fabrics or those up to a medium weight

  • AVOID textured or bulky fabrics, boas cuts can work depending on your hips

DRESSES

  • Empire line, Princess seams and A-line

  • AVOID voluminous styles, too much tailored shaping and pleats as well as belted and wrap styles

SHIRTS/TOPS

  • Bust darts and princess seams, fitted tops, Empire waist tops or V necks

  • Flare sleeves, ¾ length sleeves or French cuffs, high cut armholes

  • AVOID horizontal pattern or detail, cropped or tight around the stomach, and detail around your mid-section

COATS

  • Single breasted – if a trench, tie it to the back

  • AVOID double breasted and belted styles