Here are the silhouettes to watch for spring, and how you can pick the one that’s best for you.
Art Deco influence
1920s flapper-inspired dresses are a major part of the season, and while designers like Marc Jacobs maintained traditional feminine silhouettes, loose-fitting styles made an impact. The same goes for the 1960s: Twiggy-inspired dresses were seen in bright, bold colours and are perfect for tall, thin figures. Since short hemlines and short sleeves help balance the loose-fitting style, the look is still flattering “ provided you’re not too curvy.
Hourglass
However, if you’re curvy, look no further. Thanks to peplum styles and form-fitting dresses, the hourglass figure makes a triumphant return in spring 2012. Whether through high-waisted pencil skirts or ˜50s print dresses (like Carolina Herrera’s spring collection), the waist and chest are defined to create a flattering, feminine look. And when in doubt, think Joan Halloway: in time for Mad Men‘s premiere, the character’s classic style will help remind you of the hourglass’ fashion power.
Streamlined
It’s another year for gentleman-inspired fashion, so the sleek, streamlined silhouette is back for spring 2012. Just remember that there’s a difference between the boxy look of ˜20s and ˜60s dresses and the loose-fitting jackets and trousers seen in Ralph Lauren’s collection. However, to avoid losing yourself in metres of fabric, keep a crisp white blouse tucked in. That way, you’re still creating some definition despite the largeness of your blazer and pants.
A-line
True, an A-line skirt or tea dress arguably creates an hourglass silhouette, but in terms of being body-hugging or showing off curves, the two could not be more different. With a skirt and fitted blouse, a more classic silhouette is created and offers room for error if necessary. (Read: your waist is still defined, but you don’t necessarily need Spanx.) However, make sure this silhouette for spring hits right at the waist “ too high will create shapelessness that nobody deserves.
