A Guide to Choosing the Right Linen Top for Your Body Shape

A Guide to Choosing the Right Linen Top for Your Body Shape

As summer knocks on our door, it's time to welcome the most anticipated addition to our wardrobes. For years, linen has seamlessly blended comfort, luxury, and elegance into our lives. This natural fabric, derived from the fibers of the flax plant, is a favorite among fashion enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Known for its lightweight and soft texture, linen has a rich history that adds to its timeless appeal.

From its origins in the opulent courts of ancient Egypt to its status as a staple in modern fashion, linen has always been celebrated for its durability and exceptional suitability for warm weather. As we delve into the rich history of linen, we'll uncover why this fabric continues to be a top choice for designers and apparel stores and how it has found its way into the modern-day tops that we wear.

Why Linen is the Best Fabric for Your Summer Tops?

Linen's unique qualities make it the ideal fabric for summer tops. Its breathability ensures you stay cool even in the hottest weather, while its natural fibers wick away moisture, keeping you comfortable throughout the day. The fabric's lightweight nature provides an airy feel, and its durability means your linen garments will last season after season. However, if you think any linen top will work for you, you're living in a delusion. Even with a popular fabric like linen, it's crucial to understand your body type and make informed decisions.

Understanding Body Shapes

Recognizing your body shape is the first step towards finding clothes that enhance your natural features. While everyone's body is unique, body shapes are often categorized into four general types: 

  1. Pear-Shaped Body

    Pear-shaped bodies are defined as those with wider hips and thighs than the shoulders and bust. This body shape benefits from clothing that balances the proportions by drawing attention to the upper body.

  2. Apple-Shaped Body

    Apple-shaped bodies carry more weight around the midsection, with a fuller bust and slimmer legs. The goal for this body type is to create a more defined waistline and elongate the torso.

  3. Hourglass-Shaped Body

    Hourglass figures have well-defined waists with balanced bust and hip measurements. A person with this body type can wear a variety of styles but benefits from clothing that highlights the waist and curves.

  4. Rectangle-Shaped Body

    Rectangle-shaped bodies have a more athletic build, with balanced bust, waist, and hip measurements. Style in a way that gives an illusion of curves and adds volume to your body type.

How To Know Your Body Type?

Your body silhouette, or body type, is a crucial aspect of understanding how to dress for your shape. However, before delving into body types, it's essential to know your vital measurements. Here's a guide on how to accurately measure your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips:

  1. Shoulder Measurement: Start at the tip of one shoulder and wrap the tape around to the other shoulder, ensuring it sits snugly against your shoulders. This provides the measurement of the widest point of your shoulders.

  2. Bust Measurement: Stand straight and measure around your bust’s fullest part, ensuring the tape is under your shoulders and doesn't compress your breasts.

  3. Waist Measurement: Stand upright and locate the slimmest part of your waist, typically above your belly button and below your rib cage. Alternatively, bend to the side to find your natural waistline. Wrap the tape around your waist, ensuring it's neither too tight nor too loose.

  4. Hip Measurement: Measure the circumference of the fullest part of your buttocks, starting from one hip and wrapping the tape around to the other hip. Ensure the tape is level throughout by using a mirror.

Remember, accuracy is key, so use cloth tape and ensure it's snug but not overly tight. By knowing your vital measurements, you can make informed choices when selecting clothing that complements your unique body shape.


Recommendation For Your Body Type

Pear-Shaped Body

For pear-shaped individuals, the main focus should be on accentuating the upper body while minimizing the lower half. A-line tops and empire waist styles are excellent choices.

Recommendations

A-Line Tops: These tops flare out slightly from the waist, skimming over your hips and thighs. This tip will help to balance out wider hips and draw attention to the upper body.

Empire Waist Tops: Tops with an empire waistline sit just below the bust, creating a flattering, elongated silhouette.

Necklines: Opt for boat necks, scoop necks, or embellished necklines to draw attention upward.

Accessories: Statement necklaces and earrings can further enhance the focus on the upper body.

Apple-Shaped Body

Apple-shaped individuals should look for tops that create a defined waistline and elongate the torso. V-neck and wrap tops are particularly flattering.

Recommendations

V-Neck Tops: These tops draw the eye downward, creating the illusion of a longer torso and a more defined waist.

Wrap Tops: The wrap style cinches at the waist, emphasizing the smallest part of the torso and providing a balanced silhouette.

Belts: Adding a belt can instantly create a more defined waistline.

Patterns and Colours: Darker colors and vertical patterns can help to elongate and slim the midsection.

Hourglass-Shaped Body

For hourglass figures, the key is to highlight the waist and maintain a balance between the bust and hips. Fitted or belted tops work well.

Recommendations

Fitted Tops: These tops follow the body's natural curves, emphasizing the waist and creating a balanced look.

Belted Tops: Adding a belt to any top can help highlight the waist and enhance the hourglass shape.

Necklines: V-necks and scoop necks can highlight the bust without overwhelming the figure.

Fabrics: Choose linen tops with a bit of stretch to accommodate and flatter your curves.

Rectangle-Shaped Body

For rectangle-shaped individuals, the goal is to add volume and create the illusion of curves. Peplum and ruffle tops are great options.

Recommendations

Peplum Tops: These tops have a flared waistline, creating the appearance of a defined waist and adding volume to the hips.

Ruffle Tops: Ruffles can add volume and dimension, creating a more curvaceous silhouette.

Patterns and Colors: Bold patterns and vibrant colors add the illusion of curves.

Layering: Adding layers, like a fitted jacket or cardigan, can also add dimension to the silhouette.

Practical Considerations

Choosing the right linen top also involves practical considerations beyond body shape. Here's what to keep in mind:

  • Climate
  • Due to its breathability, linen is perfect for warm climates. However, it's also great for layering in cooler temperatures, making it a versatile choice year-round.

  • Occasion
  • Consider the occasion when choosing a linen top. Looser fits and simpler designs work well for casual outings. For more formal settings, tailored and structured tops can provide a polished look.

  • Maintenance
  • Linen can wrinkle easily, which adds to its casual charm. However, if you prefer a crisp look, consider blends or be prepared for regular ironing.

  • Casual Looks
  • If you’re looking for a relaxed, casual look, pair your linen top with denim shorts or a flowy skirt. Add sandals and a hat for a laid-back summer vibe.

  • Office Attire
  • Linen can be office-appropriate with the right pieces. Opt for tailored linen tops paired with structured trousers or a pencil skirt. Add a blazer for a professional touch.

  • Evening Outfits
  • For evening wear, choose linen tops with unique details like embroidery or lace. Pair with sleek pants or a midi skirt and accessorize with statement jewelry.

    Linen is hands down the best addition to your wardrobe this summer. With its unbeatable breathability, comfort, and effortless elegance, linen tops are perfect for any occasion. By picking linen tops that complement your body shape, you can compliment your natural beauty and embrace the timeless charm of this classic fabric.

    So, go ahead and treat yourself—Add a few stylish linen tops to your cart, and get ready to enjoy the summer in ultimate style and comfort. You deserve to feel and look your best!

    Back to blog