Tricks to wearing stripes

Wearing stripes can be tricky, and they’re definitely not for everybody. Depending on your body type, there are some things to consider when trying to pull off this particular fashion look. If you choose clothing with a vertical stripe, it will elongate your body and can give you the appearance of being taller, while a horizontal stripe can give you the appearance of looking wider and thus heavier. If you’re short and full figured, a vertical stripe is definitely the way to go — at least from the waist down. Either way, be aware that striped clothing draws attention to your body and away from your face, so choose wisely.

Vertical Stripes

With the exception of jackets and slacks, most fashion choices are cut with a horizontal stripe, so your choices will be limited in this regard. Another thing to bear in mind when wearing vertical stripes is the width of the stripe. Unless you want to look like Beetlejuice, a thinner stripe is in order, such as a pinstripe. Pinstriped suits offer classic styling that almost anyone can wear. The most common colors for clothing with a pinstripe are black, navy, and variations of gray, which are all colors easily pulled off by most Latina women.

Horizontal Stripes

The vast majority of striped fashion apparel in this category are tops and skirts. Pairing a top with a bold primary color, such as red with white striping, a pair of skinny jeans, your favorite flats or wedges, and a blazer is a popular look this fall. For another classic look, try a pencil skirt falling to just below the knee, sporting a smaller horizontal stripe paired with a solid top or blouse and pumps. If you have a fuller figure, the order can be reversed with a solid skirt and striped top, which will help to lessen the appearance of your backside looking any wider than it actually is. Full, round, and high is one thing. Flat, wide, and low or just plain enormous is definitely another. This is where a full length mirror comes in handy…

Diagonal Stripes

A diagonal stripe is a stripe almost anyone can wear. This contemporary look offers the best of both worlds. The most flattering diagonal stripe for most any woman is one that meets at a point in the middle of the garment. A thinner stripe in this pattern can be a bit overwhelming and busy, so stick with a wider stripe when donning this figure flattering wardrobe staple.

Chevron Stripe

If you’re wondering what a chevron stripe is, it’s one of those crazy arched stripes that give the appearance of a splayed M. This is a look favored by the younger crowd and is most often seen in fall and winter fashions, usually in a combination of warm and vibrant colors. It was popular many years ago and seems to be making a comeback. Though definitely not for everybody, this fun look can be seen in abundance in a variety of great fall colors on sweaters, blouses, and jackets this season.