Curvalicious Inspiration

Do you carry the majority of your weight in your midsection?
Is your upper body larger than your lower half?
If so, you probably have what stylists call an apple shaped body.

Apple shaped women tend to carry their weight around their torso (their bust line and waists) rather than in the hip, bottom and thigh area.

This body type can be difficult to dress, but there are some easy ways to camouflage your trouble spots.

Emphasis the Positive

An apple shaped body has some positive areas you can emphasise.

Identify the areas you want to minimize and the parts of your body that are more appealing. If you want to flatten a large tummy then accent your bust line or slender legs.

Take a look in the mirror and decide which parts of your body you want to accentuate and which parts you would prefer to disguise.

On Top

There are several flattering top and dress styles which you can choose. An empire waistline that fits just under your bust draws the eye away from a big stomach. Emphasise your upper body by choosing tops that expose your decolletage.

Choose deep v-necks or scoop necks to draw the eye upward. Beading or embellishments around
the neck or bust can also help achieve this. A top that extends past the waist will help avoid exposing a 'muffin top'and a top that just meets the widest part of your hips creates more balance with your bust line.

At the Bottom

Again, balance is one of the keys to flattering your body type. Wide-legged trousers will even
out your body shape and keep it more proportionate. Never wear trousers with pleats as they draw attention to your tummy. The same goes for skinny jeans and leggings. When it comes to skirts, avoid slim minis. These will make you look top-heavy. A fuller skirt with a tunic are much more flattering.

Plus Size Apple Shaped Celebrities

Queen Latifah

Jennifer Hudson

Plus Size Dresses to Flatter Apple Shape Figures

Flatter an apple shaped figure by choosing outfits that are all one colour. A monochromatic outfit creates a slimming effect on apple shaped women.

Shorter dresses and skirts can also work well on apple shaped women as they draw the eye to the slimmer part of an apple shaped figure (the hips and thighs).

Avoid fussy detailing around the middle of your dress.