How to Feel Confident in Your Own Skin: Style Tips for Every Shape and Size
This is a collaborative post.
In an age with constant pressures of social media, influencer perfection, and a feed full of models, it’s easy to feel pressured to look a certain way. Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram often promote unrealistic beauty standards, leaving many people, especially women and teenage girls, comparing themselves.
Fashion should not be about fitting into someone else’s mould. True style begins with confidence self-expression and embracing your unique shape and size. Choosing flattering clothes is all about being confident in your own skin.
Embrace Your Foundation & Understand Body Proportions
Knowing where to start and where to look for guidance can be tricky. You could start by looking at different body shape guides, but remember they are not rules you have to follow. Instead, view them as tools to help you understand proportions. Everyone’s body is different, and experimenting with unexpected silhouettes can sometimes lead to empowering, confidence bosting discoveries.
Many brands are still playing catch up when it comes to inclusive sizing, leaving a lot of shoppers frustrated. Try and seek out retailers that prioritise variety and inclusivity. It can be frustrating but view it as a trial-and-error process and eventually, you will end up finding a style, or brand, that works for you.
Choose Fabrics and Cuts That Support, Not Restrict
Usually, the best outfits are the ones that make you feel comfortable and supported. Fabrics like jersey blends, stretch cotton, and soft woven materials can create flattering shapes, and not feel restrictive. Wrap styles and adjustable ties, alongside draping fabrics can look flattering on a variety of different body shapes and can help highlight features.
Material choice is important and can make all the difference. Certain stiffer fabrics will provide clothing with structure where needed, whereas others will be more flowing. Don’t forget that you can always tailor clothes. Small alterations such as adjusting hemlines or waistlines, can help transform an item and make it more bespoke, as well as flattering.
Layering & Styling Tricks to Add Dimension and Confidence
Layering is all about building shape and texture, not covering up. Things like structured jackets, longline blazers, and cardigans can help balance proportion and add something extra to everyday outfits. Play with belts to define you waist or scarves to draw attention upwards and frame your face.
Try painting a floaty top with a fitted jacket or, wear a cropped cardigan over a good quality maxi-dress to add some structure. Consider different accessories as well as they can change the vibe of a whole outfit.
Building a Capsule Wardrobe
A wardrobe full of flattering, versatile clothes that also make you feel confident is the goal. Capsule wardrobes are all about simplicity and quality. Choose pieces that you genuinely love and can style in multiple ways. Neutral colours are best for bases, but be sure to add statement accessories or shoes to inject some personality.
Well-cut women’s dresses are particularly valuable additions that can be dressed up or down, layered across seasons, and styled to suit any mood. Investing in multi-use items also means you get your wear out of your wardrobe.
Has this given you any new ideas or helped you realise the importance of confidence in your outfits? Do you have any tips for flattering ooutfits that work for you? Let me know in the comments below.
