How To Choose a Shirt for Apple Shapes

Here's How:

1. Take a good look at your body type. Are you sure that you are an apple shape?

   Characteristics of an apple shape:
   • A wide torso
   • A wider upper back
   • A generous bust
   • Slim legs and thighs
   • Larger and more generous lower hips and thighs

2. Identify anything that you would like to minimize or any areas that you'd like to disguise. Apple body types generally want to hide a tummy, conceal back bulges, and emphasize the bust to balance things out.

   • Be honest with yourself. While it's no good to scrutinize yourself in a negative way, it is important that you evaluate yourself frankly enough to identify what needs maximizing and what you like to hide.

3. If you want to maximize your bust to make your tummy look more proportional, consider these hints:

   • Dare to bare.Show off a little more skin at the neck and upper chest.
     
     

   • Don't underestimate bra substitutes. If you like halter tops or bare shoulders, you can boost your bust even if you can't wear a "real" bra.
     
     

   • Wear v-neck and scoop neck tops. Try them with beading or details on the bust area.
     
     

   • Try a top with a distinctive "bust area." Seams or differently patterned fabric, which will draw the eye up.

4. Hide wider shoulders and a wide upper back with these tips:

   • Wear a top with a slightly daring neckline. There's a fine line between classy and not-so-classy, but use your judgment to pick a top to draw attention away from shoulders.
     
     

   • Consider tops that flow out from under the bust. A wider back will be obscured, and people will be left assume your waist is tiny underneath the shirt.
     
     

   • Tie It. If you do have a slight waist, make the most of it with sashes and ties.

5. Keep your tummy concealed with clever tricks.

   • Don't wear big, boxy shirts. You'll only look more square than you truly are.
     
     

   • Empire waist tops are your friends. They add definition to the bust and separate the space between your tummy and chest.
     
     

   • Consider girly styles. Smock or blousy tops look great on you.
     
     

   • Size up, not down. Don't be afraid to buy a size larger to add a little looseness around the stomach area.
     
     

   • Aim for length. Stick to shirts that are a tiny bit longer to hide your tummy.

6. Start shopping online.

   When shopping online, you just need to be extra careful when looking at potentially flattering tops.

   • Measure shirts. Check all tops for individual measurements. You'l be able to judge whether or not something will fit around your midsection.
     
     

   • Check it twice. Double-check the length of the top. A few extra inches can dramatically decrease "overspill."
     
     

   • Find a personal shopper. Embrace shops with online personal shoppers, who can help you choose shirts according to the company's sizing.
     
     

   • Do your homework. Check all return policies for the most attractive options.

7. Shop in the stores, too.

   In-Store Shopping Tips for Apple Types:

   Try it out. Trying things on can be very helpful if you're an apple type.

   • Remember to move around. Twirl, jump, and lean over as a test run.
     
     

   • Compare. If you like to compare tops at different stores, write down prices and styles as you go. You won't be stuck wondering where you saw that fabulous shirt at the end of the day.
     
     

   • Get friendly. Even though some people warn against it, I say bring a friend to help you shop, but only if she has an apple shape, too! Sometimes another person's input can be very helpful.

8. Find out more about your apple shape with the Apple Body Type Guide.