The petite women’s guide to dressing for body shape O (apple)

In this part of Petite Women’s Ultimate Guide to Dressing for your Body Shape we will look at the body type O.

WHY YOU’RE LUCKY

Your arms and legs tend to be longer and leaner than the other body shapes (even when you’re petite!).

YOUR STYLE GOALS

Try to minimise your midsection by highlighting your shoulders and legs.

TOP 10 STYLE TIPS FOR SHAPE O

1. Cover your middle with an open-front waterfall cardigan. The loose drapes will skim your midsection and draw the eye down for an elongating effect.

2. Empire line tops and dresses that highlight the area just below your bust will skim your tummy but not add unwanted volume.

3. Opt for bold patterns to camouflage your tummy. An all-over print will also make you look taller. It’s the oldest trick in the petite style book.

4. A tailored blazer with deep V lapels will give your top half structure. Make sure it finishes just below the hips to show off your legs.

5. Don’t shy away from shorter hemlines. Dresses and skirts that are cut just above the knee will give the illusion of length while showing off your best asset.

6. Shoes and bottoms that are similar in colour will give you a longer-line silhouette. Black shoes with black tights is a classic leg lengthening trick while brown or tan sandals that match your skin tone will also work.

7. Kimono-shaped sleeves that draw attention away from your middle to your arms are perfect for you.

8. Choose trousers that have flat-fronts and zips at the sides. This avoids adding any extra bulk to your front.

9. Steer clear of horizontal stripes on your top half as they will draw the eye sideways. Vertical stripes on your top half however will have a narrowing effect.

10. Go for skinny jeans with some added stretch at the waist to ensure you’re comfortable. Then layer over an empire-line tunic top to create proportion.

Follow @amy_cbandbp for style inspiration for body shape O

SHOP OUR PICKS FOR SHAPE O IN PETITE SIZES