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How To Buy a Shirt for Pear Shapes

By Meieli Sawyer, About.com

Even if you have a pear shape, the shirt that you choose can affect the way your bottom half looks. Read this how-to guide to add balance and style.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1 hour or more

Here's How:

  1. Recognize your shape.

    A pear-shaped body will have these characteristics:
    • You may have an easier time managing your weight from the waist up.
    • Your shoulders could be somewhat narrow in comparison to the rest of your body.
    • Your lower portion (hips, thighs, and buttocks) will be larger than your upper body.

  2. Make your hips look more proportional.

    • Go Light: Pair dark jeans with a lighter colored top to draw the eyes upward.
    • Show It off: Maximize that bust with a tank top that includes push-up pads within the lining.

  3. Pay attention to length.

    • Shorten It: Find slightly shorter blazers than mid-hip length to avoid drawing attention to your lower half.
    • Add an Inch: Shirts that meet at your exact waist aren’t recommended, as they can cut your silhouette in half.
    • Look for basic tops in lighter, blousier fabrics like chiffon, which will mask any inequality in your measurements.

  4. Layer up top.

    • Get Creative: Find shirts that look great with blazers, sweaters, and jackets, and wear them together often. Layers can help balance larger hips.
    • Keep It in Mind: Avoid tops that are slim and streamlined, as they can make you look more bottom heavy.

  5. Shop Online for Hip-Friendly Shirts

    • Study Each Piece.Scrutinize tops online for length, which is essential for flattering your body. Measure your favorite shirt to find out what works best.
    • Style Note: Shirts that meet at your exact waist aren’t recommended, as they can cut your silhouette in half.
    • Don’t forget that long duster sweater and jacket may emphasize your hips and behind. If you shop for these online, double-check the fiber content with an item at the shop in person.
    • Always check for online discounts when buying your tops online! You can save a lot.

  6. Shop for Shirts at Local Plus-Size Stores

    • Be Adventurous. If you know that you could definitely flatter your shape more, you will need to branch out and experiment.
    • Take Photos. Get a friend to take photos of different options on you in the dressing room, so you can compare your options later and see what looks best.

  7. Get more information on your pear body type at the Pear Body Type Guide.

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