Flatter Your Figure with a Big Over Small Silhouette
July 27th, 2009
There are a few classic silhouettes in fashion that you see over and over: big over small, small over big, and small over small. (You sometimes see big over big, but usually only on the runway.) We’re huge fans of the Big Over Small silhouette, as it flatters women who may have a tummy–but also a slender bottom half. The Big Over Small silhouette allows you a bit more volume where you need it, while keeping the overall look visually proportionate. Here’s how to get the look:
1. Start with a top with some volume. If you don’t want to go over the top with volume, you can try an empire waist top. If you’re more daring, you can try for more volume with pieces like a drapey blouse or an oversized sweatshirt.
2. Counterbalance the volume on top with a skinny bottom. A pair of skinny jeans works well, as would a slim skirt.
3. If you want to play with more volume on top, add a drapey sweater over your top. Let it hang open for the most volume.
4. The look is one part vintage, one part edgy. Finish off the look with a handbag with pocket detailing (echoing the arty sweater) and a pair of adorable brown pumps (recalling the vintage-inspired top).
How would you wear the big over small silhouette? Share your style with us in the comments!
Entry Filed under: Ready Made Outfits,Women
9 Comments
1. Lara | July 28th, 2009 at 6:21 am
where is that gorgeous bag from and how can i get one??
2. Trisha | July 28th, 2009 at 7:01 am
It’s from Forever 21, but unfortunately they’re out of stock. Here’s a couple of great bags from their current collection:
Zipper Trim Bowling Tote
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=acc_handbags&product_id=1062065393&Page=all
Modena Tote
http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=acc_handbags&product_id=1055231747&Page=all
3. Asianmommy | July 28th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Cute top! Love the jeans, too.
4. Kat | July 28th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
I love this look, but I’m 30, fit and curvy and just look pregnant when I try this type of look. Any recommendations how to pull this off without the “5-month” pregnant insinuation?
5. chickdowntown Angie | July 29th, 2009 at 10:51 am
I love skinny jeans with big tops. Unless you’re really skinny, big on big just never works. It looks sloppy.
6. Dhppy | July 29th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
If you’ve got big breasts, the billowy top will turn you into the Hindenburg.
7. AntiGenre | August 2nd, 2009 at 8:22 am
I love that asymmetrical cardigan, and orange with gray is one of my favorite color combinations. Neat selections!
8. thisisme | August 4th, 2009 at 11:58 am
I would love to see a variation of this for someone with a pear shape. I can’t pull off the skinny jeans and the billowy top hides my little waist and makes me look big all over. I know skinny jeans are the big trend, but those of us that can’t wear them need options too!
9. serena | August 16th, 2009 at 10:32 am
I completely agree – cute outfit but I have a huge bust and tummy with slim hips and legs so this would make look pregnant! does anyone have any tips on how to turn this outfit into a top+middle heavy friendly outfit??