Finding the right fashion as a plus-size, apple-shaped teen can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right style tips and tricks, you can create outfits that flatter your shape and make you feel confident and stylish. Let’s dive into some actionable advice to help you navigate the world of fashion with ease.
Understanding the Apple Shape
The apple shape is characterized by a wider midsection, often with a fuller bust, broad shoulders, and slimmer hips and legs. The goal is to draw attention away from the midsection and highlight your best features, like your legs, arms, and face. With that in mind, let’s explore some style tips tailored to your body shape.
1. Embrace V-Neck Tops
V-neck tops are a go-to for apple-shaped bodies. The V-neckline draws the eye downward, elongating your torso and creating a slimming effect. Whether it’s a casual t-shirt or a dressier blouse, a V-neck is versatile and flattering. Choose tops with some structure or slight A-line cuts to avoid clinging to your midsection.
2. Opt for A-Line Dresses
A-line dresses are perfect for creating balance. The fitted top and flared skirt help to define your waist while skimming over your midsection. Look for dresses that cinch just below the bust (empire waist) or at the natural waist to emphasize the narrowest part of your torso.
3. High-Waisted Bottoms are Your Best Friend
High-waisted jeans and skirts help to smooth out your tummy and create the illusion of a longer, leaner lower body. Pairing high-waisted bottoms with a tucked-in top or a crop top can define your waist and enhance your curves in all the right places.
4. Layer with Long Cardigans and Jackets
Layering can be a game-changer. Long cardigans, blazers, and jackets that hit at the hip or below can elongate your body and provide coverage for your midsection. These layers add structure and can create a vertical line that draws the eye up and down, rather than across.
5. Choose the Right Fabrics
Fabrics play a crucial role in how clothes fit and flatter your body. Look for fabrics that drape nicely over your body without clinging to your midsection. Jersey, cotton blends, and lightweight knits are often good choices. Avoid stiff or heavy fabrics that add bulk to your frame.
6. Statement Accessories to Draw Attention
Use statement accessories to draw attention to your best features. A bold necklace, a pair of chandelier earrings, or a statement belt can shift the focus away from your midsection and highlight your face or waist. Scarves can also be a great way to add color and interest without adding bulk.
7. Prints and Patterns
Prints and patterns can be tricky, but when chosen wisely, they can be incredibly flattering. Opt for prints that are smaller and more delicate, as large prints can overwhelm your frame. Vertical stripes, small florals, or polka dots can add visual interest without drawing too much attention to your midsection.
8. The Power of Monochrome Outfits
Monochrome outfits (wearing the same color from head to toe) can create a streamlined, lengthening effect. Dark colors like black, navy, and charcoal are particularly slimming, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other shades. Just make sure the fit is right, as a well-fitted monochrome outfit can work wonders.
9. Go for Structured Pieces
Structured clothing helps create a clean, defined silhouette. Blazers with a bit of tailoring, skirts with an A-line shape, and tops with darts or seams that define the waist can all contribute to a polished look. Avoid overly loose or boxy items that can add unnecessary bulk.
10. Avoid Low-Rise Bottoms
Low-rise jeans and pants can create a muffin top effect, which is something to steer clear of. Instead, choose mid-rise or high-rise options that offer better support and coverage for your midsection, creating a smoother look.
11. Experiment with Belted Styles
Belts can be your secret weapon. Adding a belt at the narrowest part of your waist can instantly define your shape and create an hourglass silhouette. Whether it’s a wide belt over a dress or a skinny belt with high-waisted pants, this accessory can pull your look together.
12. Flattering Footwear
Footwear can also play a role in balancing your shape. Pointed-toe shoes or boots can elongate your legs, making them appear longer and leaner. Avoid shoes with ankle straps, as they can cut off your leg line, making you appear shorter. Heels, even low ones, can also add height and enhance your overall silhouette.
13. Create Balance with Skirt Lengths
When choosing skirts, the length matters. Skirts that hit just above the knee or at the knee are ideal for creating balance. They show off your legs without cutting you off at an awkward spot. Avoid skirts that end at the widest part of your calves, as this can make your legs look shorter.
14. Invest in Shapewear
Shapewear can be a great tool for smoothing out your silhouette, especially when wearing fitted clothing. It’s not about changing your shape, but about enhancing it by creating a smooth canvas for your clothes. High-waisted briefs, bodysuits, and smoothing slips are all good options to consider.
15. Confidence is Key
No outfit is complete without confidence. Fashion is about expressing yourself and feeling good in what you wear. Don’t shy away from trends or styles you love just because you’re plus-size or apple-shaped. With the right fit and styling, you can rock any look. Own your style and wear your outfits with pride.
16. Tailoring Can Make All the Difference
Don’t be afraid to visit a tailor. Tailoring your clothes to fit your unique shape can make a world of difference. Even a small adjustment like taking in the waist of a dress or shortening the hem of pants can elevate your look. Off-the-rack clothes aren’t always made with every body shape in mind, so tailoring ensures your clothes fit you perfectly.
While tailoring can elevate your look, there are also budget-friendly fashion tips to consider, such as shopping at thrift stores or utilizing DIY alterations to achieve a great fit without spending much.
17. Play with Proportions
Playing with proportions can help create a balanced silhouette. Pair a fitted top with a flowy skirt or wide-leg pants, or a loose blouse with skinny jeans. This contrast can help define your shape and prevent your outfits from looking too boxy or overwhelming.
18. Don’t Shy Away from Bold Colors
While dark colors are slimming, bold colors can also be flattering and fun. Don’t be afraid to incorporate bold colors into your wardrobe. The key is to keep the color concentrated in areas you want to highlight, like your legs or upper body, and balance it with more neutral tones elsewhere.
19. Find Your Style Icons
Look to style icons who share your body shape for inspiration. Celebrities, influencers, or even friends who have a similar shape can provide ideas and confidence boosts. Study how they dress, what silhouettes they favor, and how they accessorize, and adapt those elements into your own wardrobe.
20. Experiment with Different Styles
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Fashion is about self-expression, and finding what makes you feel great might take some trial and error. Try different cuts, fabrics, and styles to see what resonates with you. For those who love a laid-back and creative style, the bohemian fashion offers a perfect mix of comfort and individuality, with its flowy fabrics and unique patterns. The more you experiment, the more you’ll understand what works best for your shape and personal style.
Final Thoughts
Fashion for the plus-size, apple-shaped teen doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on pieces that flatter your shape, investing in key wardrobe staples, and embracing your unique style, you can create a wardrobe that makes you look and feel amazing. Remember, the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Style is personal, so make it your own and have fun with it!