What if we were to consider body positivity when we got dressed? What would that look like?
Tops
When considering tops, there are a few different directions we can go.
Form-fitting
On the tighter end, a form-fitting top hugs your curves, displaying your shape.
Loose
A slightly more relaxed look would be a loose fitting top. It neither hugs your body nor hides your shape. It simply offers a comfortable alternative.
Baggy
An oversized look that is exceptionally comfortable.
Bottoms
The bottom part of an outfit comes with an increased amount of options. Think dresses, skirts, and all the kinds of pants.
There are literally tons of dress types. Wrap, ball gown, halter, a-line, mermaid, empire, strapless, shirt dress, maxi, shift, tent, to name a few. Really there is something for everyone if you’re into dresses. A dress can be used to flatter your shape as with the bodycon, peplum, mermaid and strapless. They can also provide comfort and movement – tent, shift, and jumper come to mind.
With this many options, it makes getting dressed a little more fun doesn’t it?
Pants equally come in varying styles and types. There really is something for everyone. Parachute, cargo and palazzo say – breathable and spacious. There’s a casual air about them. Sailor pants, wide leg and harem also have a similar vibe with even more room to relax.
Whereas skinny, stirrup, leggings, low rise, slim fit, and hot pants display shape more directly. These hug the body tighter offering a different look that some might gravitate towards.
As is the cycle with style, many items that are “en vogue” or “of the moment” come back around in a few years to a decade. Examples would be the bell bottom which is usually pretty popular and has been for most of the last 40 years at least.
If you pay attention to trends, things come and go fairly constantly. But regardless of what everyone else is doing, you have your own unique style. That’s what makes you, well, you. This is what fits you – mentally – what you enjoy wearing and feel comfortable in. As well as physically, what you like to dress in. Find what suits you and wear it confidently. Remembering that there is no “one size fits all” approach to clothing. Do you and your authenticity will shine right through.
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Kristen Donia is a freelance writer living in a tiny house she built in sunny Southern Oregon. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and has dedicated her life to studying and writing about empathy, vulnerability and enriching the human experience.