This is a collaborative post.
When it comes to planning your wardrobe for an upcoming holiday or vacation, one size really does not fit all. We all have unique body shapes and sizes, and the key to feeling confident and comfortable in what we wear while on holiday lies in finding pieces that flatter our individual figures.
Body shape matters
Finding clothing that flatters your body begins with understanding your body shape. The most common body shapes are hourglass, pear, apple, and rectangle. Each shape has unique characteristics and, if you bear this in mind, you can dress to flatter your body shape.
Hourglass: If you have an hourglass figure – characterised by a well-defined waist, and balanced proportions between the bust and hips – corset tops can emphasise your curves. Pair them with high-waisted bottoms to showcase your waist even more.
Pear: Pear-shaped individuals have a smaller bust, and wider hips. A corset top can balance this shape by adding volume to the upper body. Choose a corset with detailing, patterns, or ruffles on the chest area to draw attention upwards.
Apple: Apple-shaped bodies carry weight around the midsection. Opt for underbust corsets to create the illusion of a smaller waist. Layer over flowy blouses or dresses, creating a flattering contrast.
Rectangle: Rectangular body types have a straighter silhouette, with minimal waist definition. Corset tops – especially waist-trainer corsets – can help create curves by cinching the waist. Pair them with skirts or pants with intricate detailing to add dimension to your look.
The appeal of corset tops
While trends come and go one timeless fashion accessory to consider packing into your carry-on or suitcase, is a corset top. Not only can corsets provide structure and shape to your silhouette, complimenting your body shape and ensuring that you look and feel your best, they’re also a relatively versatile item of clothing, so you’ll be able to restyle them and wear them with several different outfits.
Whether you’re dressing up for a night-out or seeking a chic daytime look, choose from various different corsets to add to your holiday wardrobe.
Here are a few key styles to consider:
Overbust: These corsets cover and support the bust area, providing lift and shaping for a flattering silhouette. They work well for those who want to accentuate curves, and create an hourglass figure.
Underbust: These corsets stop just under the bust, allowing you to wear them with your preferred bra. They offer waist-cinching benefits, and can be paired with different tops for a customisable look.
Waist-Trainer: These corsets are designed for waist reduction, helping to achieve a more defined waistline over time. They’re an excellent choice for anyone who’s looking to accentuate their natural curves.
Peplum: For those who want to add a touch of flair to their outfit, peplum corsets have a ruffled or flared fabric at the waist, creating a playful and feminine look.
When choosing a corset top, consider your body type and the look you want to achieve. Experiment with different styles to find the one that flatters your figure, and suits your personal style best.
The magic of swimwear
While swimwear is distinct from everyday clothing, it’s essential to find swimsuits that flatter your body shape, just as you would do with any other garment. Swimwear should make you feel confident and comfortable, so you can make the most of your time in the water.
One-piece swimsuits: For those seeking more coverage, one-piece swimsuits can be incredibly flattering. Look for styles with ruching, colour-blocking or side panels to create the illusion of a smaller waist.
Bikinis: Bikinis are a versatile choice, and you can mix and match tops and bottoms to suit your body shape. High-waisted bikini bottoms can provide extra coverage and accentuate your waist, while underwired tops offer support for a fuller bust.
Tankinis: Tankinis combine the coverage of a one-piece, with the convenience of a two-piece. They’re perfect for apple-shaped individuals who want to conceal their midsection, while still enjoying the benefits of a bikini.
Swim dresses: Swim dresses are great for pear-shaped individuals, as they offer extra coverage over the hips and thighs while drawing attention to the upper body. Look for styles with adjustable ties or belts to define your waist.
Remember that the key to finding flattering swimwear is to prioritize comfort and confidence. Don’t be afraid to try different styles and sizes to find what suits you best.
Consider the climate
Ultimately, when choosing what to wear when you go on holiday, you’ll need to pay some attention to what type of holiday you’ll be enjoying what the climate is likely to be like in your chosen destination. A packing list for a UK holiday will look completely different to packing list for a beach holiday, for example.
If your chosen destination is likely to be particularly warm, pack light, floaty clothing that’ll look good on, without making you feel too hot, or restricting your movement too much. Alternatively, if you’ll be likely to experience cold temperatures and/or rain in whichever country you’ll be travelling to, you’ll want to ensure you bring a few pair of warm (yet flattering trousers), long-sleeved tops and/or jumpers, and your waterproof gear.
Accessorise with confidence
Ultimately, the most crucial element in finding clothing that flatters your body is confidence. Regardless of your body shape, when you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows. Confidence is the best accessory you can wear, and it can help to make a bigger impact than any outfit alone ever could.
Finding the right holiday wear to flatters your body shape begins with developing an understanding your own unique shape, and experimenting with different styles to see what looks best on you. Whether you’re choosing a holiday outfit to pack for a special occasion or simply searching for your dream swimsuit, the right choices of holiday outfit will enhance your natural beauty, while enabling you to feel comfortable at all times while on holiday. However, always remember that our style is a reflection of our peronsality, so don’t be afraid to embrace your unique style and wear what makes you feel confident and empowered while on holiday.
What are your top tips for choosing outfits to wear on holiday? Let me know in the comments.
This is a collaborative post.