StyleSpot Newsletter - Picking a Waistline - April 6, 2012
Lately we've seen a variety of waistlines--from dropped to natural to empire--on starlets including
Jennifer Lawrence,
Sophia Bush and
Nina Dobrev. So which one is right for you? Dropped waists, which hit near the hipbone, are flattering on shorter gals (especially when paired with heels), because it gives a lengthening illusion. A natural waist, one that hits in middle, at the belly button, is great for hourglass figures because it accentuates the shape. A defined natural waist also looks great on tall women because it visually can cut you in half, making it less ideal for petites. An empire waist, which sits high on the torso, just under the breast line, works well on many frames. Long waisted ladies (those with shorter legs and a longer torso) benefit from an empire, which makes the natural waist indiscernible. Also, if you have a big tummy, a small bust or are pear shape, empire is a flattering silhouette for you.
