Hey, lovelies! The holiday season is almost here, and it’s a fabulous time to update your wardrobe. But let’s get real—every body is different, and trends aren’t one-size-fits-all. So, let’s break down how to make this season’s hottest trends work for your unique shape.

Seasonal Trends to Watch This Holiday Season

This year, we’re seeing a resurgence of classics and some new, exciting styles:

  • Wide-Leg and Pleated Pants: A nod to the ’70s, these styles are making a big comeback.
  • One-Shoulder and Off-the-Shoulder Tops: Perfect for those who want to show a little skin while staying cozy.
  • Leather Pieces: From pants to skirts to dresses, leather is everywhere.
  • Tweed and Boucle Sweater Jackets: A chic and warm addition to any outfit.
  • Camel and Winter White Wool Coats: Timeless and elegant, these coats go with everything.
  • Checks and Plaids: Perfect for the holiday season.
  • Satin Dresses and Maxi and Midi Skirts: Glamorous and versatile, these are a must-have.
  • Shoes: Kitten heels—your go-to for both style and comfort. This season is all about metallics and fiery reds to give your outfit that extra oomph. Oh, and Mary Janes! Yep, this timeless style is back and better than ever.

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! We’re diving into how you can rock these seasonal trends in a way that celebrates your individual body type. We’re focusing on three magic words: Balance, Accentuate, and Conceal for everybody type. Trust me, you’re gonna feel like the style icon you were born to be.

Before We Go Any Further – Don’t Forget the 2/3 Rule

One golden rule to keep in mind when styling any body type is the 2/3 rule. Forget the 50-50 distribution; it’s all about the 1/3 and 2/3 ratio. This means that you should aim to divide your body visually into thirds rather than halves, creating a more pleasing and balanced look.  This rule is a simple yet effective way to elevate your style, making you look more put-together and in tune with your body’s natural geometry.

Pear-Shaped

Characteristics: You’re curvier at the hips and thighs and narrower up top.

Style Guidelines: When it comes to mastering the art of balance, accentuation, and concealment, the pear-shaped body offers a unique opportunity. Draw eyes upward to balance out fuller hips with captivating tops or statement necklaces. Highlight your naturally narrower shoulders with styles like boat necks or off-the-shoulder tops. For concealment, opt for skirts that gently flare from the waist or straight-leg pants to create a streamlined silhouette.

1/3 – 2/3 Rule: Aim for 1/3 of your outfit to be on the upper body, like a cropped or waist-length top, and 2/3 on the lower body with high-waisted, wide-leg pants or a long skirt. This will balance out your curvier hips and thighs while elongating your silhouette.

Trends to Rock:

  • Off-the-Shoulder Tops: These can balance out your hips and draw attention upward.
  • Tweed Sweater Jackets: Opt for styles that hit at the hip or just below to elongate your torso. A belted sweater jacket can also help define your waist.
  • Satin Skirt or Dress: Opt for satin maxi skirts or dresses with a high waist to emphasize your narrowest point and elongate your legs. Choose styles that gently flare out towards the bottom to balance out your hips and thighs, creating a harmonious silhouette.
  • Chunky Jewelry: A statement piece can draw attention upwards.
  • Wide Leg Pants: A high-waisted, wide-leg pant can elongate the legs and give a more balanced silhouette when paired with a fitted or structured top. However, the pants shouldn’t be too voluminous, as that can add bulk to the lower half.

How to Style:

  • Off-the-Shoulder Top: Pair with a satin maxi skirt and nude heels for a balanced look.
  • Tweed Sweater Jacket: Style with wide-leg pants and a fitted top.

Fashion Faux Pas:

  • Pleated Pants: These can add volume to your lower half.
  • Strappy or Mary Jane Style Shoes: These types of shoes can sometimes make the legs appear shorter, especially if they have ankle straps that cut across the ankle.

Apple-Shaped

Characteristics: You carry your weight mostly in your midsection.

Style Guidelines: For those with an apple-shaped body, the focus is on creating a harmonious balance between your upper and lower halves while accentuating your assets. To balance out a fuller midsection, opt for wide-leg pants that sit well on the waist or just below the belly button. Accentuate your legs or bust with eye-catching details or colors. When it comes to concealment, avoid cinching at the waist and instead opt for pieces that flow gently over the midsection, like empire-waist dresses or A-line skirts.

1/3 – 2/3 Rule: Place 1/3 of the visual weight on your lower body with well-fitted pants or a skirt that starts at the narrowest part of your waist. Let the remaining 2/3 focus on your upper body with a top that has a flattering neckline to draw the eye upwards. You can flip this and do 1/3 on the top and 2/3 on the bottom, but avoid tops that end at the broadest part of your hips or midsection.

Trends to Rock:

  • Wide-Leg Pants: These can balance out your upper body. The key is to opt for a pair that sits well on the waist or just below the belly button, helping to distribute weight more evenly. Pairing these pants with a more fitted top can accentuate the narrowest part of your midsection or draw attention upward.
  • Leather Pieces: A leather skirt or leggings can be super flattering. For apple-shaped bodies, A-line skirts or empire-waist skirts that cinche at the smallest part of your waist and flare out are often the most flattering.
  • Camel or Winter White Wool Coats: Opt for coats or jackets that cinch in at the waist or just below the bust, as these can create a more defined silhouette. Long, straight-cut coats can also work well as they elongate the body. Opt for single-breasted styles over double-breasted ones to avoid adding extra bulk to the midsection. A V-neck or open collar can also help to elongate the neck and draw attention upwards. If you’re going for a more casual look, a structured blazer that hits at the hip can be a great option. The key is to choose outerwear that doesn’t add extra volume to your midsection but rather elongates and balances your frame.

How to Style:

  • Wide-Leg Pants: Pair with a fitted top to accentuate your waist, and add some red heels. Bright or eye-catching shoes can be a great strategy for apple-shaped bodies to draw attention away from the midsection and towards the legs.
  • Leather Skirt: Pair with a soft knit v-neck or scoop-neck sweater and some kitten heels.
  • Wool Coat: Style with a satin maxi skirt and some red shoes for a pop of color.

Fashion Faux Pas:

  • Cropped Tweed Sweater Jackets: These can cut your body in unflattering places.
  • Low Rise Pants or Skirts: They can create a “muffin top” effect and draw attention to your tummy.
  • Pleated Pants: These can be tricky, as they may draw attention to the midsection, which is often the widest part of the body for apple shapes. However, if you still want to rock this trend, opt for pants with minimal, flat pleats and a higher waistline. Pair them with a longer, flowy top that skims over the hips and belly for a balanced look.

Hourglass Figure

Characteristics: Your bust and hips are roughly the same width, with a narrower waist in between.

Style Guidelines: For those blessed with an hourglass figure, the aim is to accentuate your naturally balanced proportions while adding a touch of flair where you see fit. Highlight your well-defined waist with belts or waist-cinching tops, and opt for fitted skirts or pants to showcase your curves. To maintain balance, choose styles that are equally proportioned on the top and bottom, like wrap dresses or tailored suits. If you wish to conceal, go for pieces that skim rather than cling to keep things elegantly understated.

1/3 – 2/3 Rule: You are one that can go for the 50/50 styles, but if you do want to follow the 1/3 rule, go for 1/3 on the top with a fitted blouse or crop top that highlights your waist and 2/3 on the bottom with a flared skirt or wide-leg pants. This will accentuate your natural curves while maintaining balance.

Trends to Rock:

  • Checks and Plaids: Opt for smaller patterns to complement your figure.
  • Satin Maxi Skirts and Dresses: These work well with your curves. For hourglass figures, pencil skirts or A-line skirts work wonders. These styles accentuate the natural curves and narrow waist, creating a balanced and flattering silhouette.
  • Long Wool Coats: Opt for a tailored, lengthy, cinch at the waist style. These highlight the narrow waist and maintain the balanced proportions of the bust and hips.
  • Pleated Pants: You are one of the only shapes that can really rock this style, so enjoy it while it lasts!!

How to Style:

  • Checks and Plaids: Style with a solid-colored top and some ankle boots.
  • Satin Maxi Skirt: Pair with a fitted top and some metallic shoes for a chic look.
  • Long Wool Coat: Style with high-waisted, wide-leg pants and a fitted or tucked-in top to highlight your narrow waist and keep your figure from getting lost in the fabric.

Fashion Faux Pas:

  • Kitten Heels: These might look disproportionately small, given your curves.
  • Boxy Oversized Outerwear: These hide your natural curves.

Athletic Build

Characteristics: You’re more straight-up-and-down, with fewer curves.

Style Guidelines: For those with an athletic build, the focus is on creating curves and adding dimension where it’s typically lacking. To balance your naturally straight figure, opt for tops with ruffles or details that add volume to your upper body. When it comes to accentuating, a belted waist can create the illusion of curves. If you’re looking to conceal, go for relaxed-fit bottoms that don’t cling to your legs, giving a more rounded appearance.

1/3 – 2/3 Rule: Use 1/3 of the outfit to create curves on the top, perhaps with a ruffled or puff-sleeve top, and 2/3 on the bottom with straight-leg pants or a pencil skirt. This adds some softness to your athletic frame.

Trends to Rock:

  • Leather Pieces: A leather dress or skirt can add some femininity. A-line skirts or dresses work wonderfully to add some curves to a straight-up-and-down frame.
  • Satin Dress: Wrap dresses are also a great choice, as they create the illusion of a more defined waist and add femininity.
  • Trench Coats: These can add some curves to your frame. A belted trench coat is a great option. The belt helps to cinch in the waist, creating curves and adding a feminine touch to a more straight-up-and-down frame. Choose a coat that hits at the knee or just above for the most flattering look.
  • Metallic and Red Shoes: Strappy heels or sandals can soften the overall look. These trends can add a pop of color and draw attention.

How to Style:

  • Leather Skirt: Try pairing a black leather mini or midi skirt with a fitted, ribbed turtleneck in a bold color like red or emerald green. Add some ankle boots with a chunky heel to give a little lift and elongate the legs.
  • Trench Coat: Style with a fitted satin maxi skirt, a matching satin cami, and some kitten heels.
  • Metallic Shoes: Pair with wide-leg pants and a fitted top.

Fashion Faux Pas:

  • Pleated Pants: While pleated pants are trending, they can make an athletic build look boxy and less defined. The pleats add volume where you don’t necessarily need it, taking away from a streamlined look.
  • Oversized Tweed Sweater Jackets: These are cozy and chic but can overwhelm an athletic frame, making you look more square than you actually are. Opt for more tailored outerwear to flatter your physique.

Inverted Triangle

Characteristics: You have broader shoulders and a larger bust compared to your hips and waist.

Style Guidelines: If you have an inverted triangle shape, the aim is to balance your broader shoulders by drawing the eye towards your hips and legs. To achieve this balance, opt for V-neck tops or wrap styles that narrow your upper body. Accentuate your lower half with skirts or pants that have details like pockets or embellishments. If you’re looking to conceal, go for darker colors on top and lighter shades on the bottom to even out your proportions.

1/3 – 2/3 Rule: Place 1/3 of the focus on your upper body with a simple, streamlined top, and 2/3 on your lower body with flare pants or an A-line skirt. This will balance out broader shoulders and create harmony.

Trends to Rock:

  • Wide-Leg and Pleated Pants: These styles can add some volume to your lower half, balancing out your broader shoulders. Go for a high-waisted style to emphasize your narrower waist.
  • Leather Pieces: A leather pencil skirt can be a great way to add some edge while accentuating your hips.
  • Camel or Winter White Wool Coats: Choose a style that flares out at the hips to create a more balanced silhouette. A belt at the waist can also help define your figure.

How to Style:

  • Wide-Leg Pants: Pair these with a fitted, tucked-in top and some metallic or red shoes to draw attention downward.
  • Leather Skirt: Style it with a soft, flowy blouse and some strappy heels for a chic look.
  • Wool Coat: Opt for one that cinches at the waist and flares out at the hips. Pair it with a satin maxi skirt and some Mary Janes for a timeless look.

Fashion Faux Pas:

    • Off-the-Shoulder Tops: These can further widen your already broad shoulders.
    • Chunky Jewelry: Large necklaces can draw too much attention to the upper body, making it look even broader.

Petite Frames

Characteristics: Petite frames are generally shorter in height, often 5’4″ and under, with a more compact bone structure.

Style Guidelines: For those with petite frames, the goal is to elongate your silhouette while highlighting your assets. To balance your proportions, opt for high-waisted pants or skirts that give the illusion of longer legs. Accentuate your upper body with fitted tops or V-necklines that draw the eye upward. If you’re looking to conceal, avoid overwhelming your frame with oversized pieces; instead, go for tailored fits that flatter your petite stature.

1/3 – 2/3 Rule: Opt for 2/3 of the outfit to be a high-waisted bottom, making your legs appear longer, and 1/3 to be a fitted or tucked-in top. This will elongate your petite frame and give the illusion of height.

Trends to Rock:

  • One-Shoulder and Off-the-Shoulder Tops: These styles elongate the neck and show off a little skin, making you appear taller.
  • Kitten Heels: A small heel can add height without sacrificing comfort. A taller heel is even better if you can handle it to elongate your build!
  • Satin Maxi Skirts and Dresses: Opt for A-line or pencil skirts that hit just above the knee or at the knee. These styles create the illusion of longer legs and a more elongated silhouette, especially when paired with heels. High-waisted options can also help to elongate the legs and give a more balanced appearance.
  • Sweater Jackets or Cardigans: Shorter-length sweaters and jackets often work best. A hem that hits at the hip or slightly above helps to elongate the legs and create a more balanced silhouette. Cropped styles can also work well, especially when paired with high-waisted bottoms.
  • Chunky Jewelry: A statement piece can draw attention upwards.

How to Style:

  1. One-Shoulder Top: Pair with a satin maxi skirt and kitten heels for a chic, elongated look.
  2. Kitten Heels: Style with tailored pants and a fitted top to add height and balance.
  3. Satin Maxi Skirt: Go for a high-waisted style and pair it with a fitted top tucked in. Add chunky jewelry to draw the eye upwards.

Fashion Faux Pas:

  • Wide-Leg and Pleated Pants: These can overwhelm your frame. If you decide to go for the wide-leg, make it cropped. The cropped length shows off a bit of ankle, which can elongate the leg line. Pairing them with heels can add even more height, making you appear taller. Just make sure the pants are high-waisted to further elongate your legs and create a balanced look.
  • Long or oversized Sweaters and Jackets: Long, oversized sweaters or jackets can overwhelm a petite frame, making you look shorter.

Conclusion

Remember, fashion is all about feeling fabulous in your own skin. So, take these tips and make them your own!

We’d love to hear how you’re incorporating these trends into your holiday wardrobe! Share your ideas in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe. You don’t want to miss our next Holiday Series Release, the go-to shopping guide for these fabulous Holiday Fashion essentials!