Sometimes when I hear people talking about their chest size, I think of that old saying, The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. For some of us with large busts (me! I’m a 34 F, which is the same as a 34DDD) dream of wearing spaghetti strap dresses with no bra. Yeah, that’s not happening for me. On the flip side, I envision some people with small busts dreaming of more fully filling out a bathing suit top or wearing a dress that shows some cleavage. Whatever people dream of when it comes to their bust size, the goal is to embrace what mother nature gave us. We all deserve to look good and feel good, and for some of us, that means learning how to downplay a large bust.
Petite With a Large Bust
Are you someone who is petite AND has a large bust? For reference, I’m 5’ 3”. You’re technically considered petite if you are 5’4” or under. But I’m also short-waisted and have a large bust. There are definitely some challenges to dressing my body type in a way that makes me feel awesome, but it is totally possible. Over the years, I’ve experimented and tried on a million outfits. I’ve also read all the blog posts and articles I could find. Now, I definitely have a few tips for those of you who are trying to dress for your large bust. BTW, I’m a middle school teacher so I try to cultivate a look that does not draw extra attention to my bustline. Below are my three tips to downplay a large bust.
This is my go-to neckline to help minimize the look of my large chest. I’ll also do a scoop neck for a nice, open look. However, I still think the v-neck is the best option to downplay a large bust. It seems counterintuitive, if you want to minimize your chest, then you should cover up all of your chest, right? But it turns out that just isn’t true. When you cover your entire chest area with a neckline like a turtle neck or a crew neck, it makes your chest look bigger. It’s like all eyes are on the girls. With the v-neckline, the eye is drawn to the open area on your chest above your actual bust.
If you’re trying to downplay a large bust, show some skin somewhere else; your arms, your legs, or your neck. This tip piggybacks on tip number one, which was to wear a v-neckline. One reason why a v-neck works is because you’re telling the eye where to look instead of them automatically looking at your bust. One benefit of having a short torso is that usually your legs, and often your arms look relatively long in comparison. Show some skin by showing off your arms or legs or neck. When I say show some skin, I don’t mean anything scandalous or provocative. Here are a few ways to show some skin:
Try a sleeveless v-neck top and show your entire shoulder and arm.
Opt for a cap sleeve or even just a regular t-shirt sleeve and show most of your arm.
Try a three-quarter length sleeve and show some forearm and wrist.
Wear a v-neck or scoop neck top and show your neck and upper chest.
I avoided tucking in tops for so long and now looking back, I wish I would have been more aware that a tucked-in top can really be beneficial. I don’t think that tops need to be tucked in (or tied) 100% of the time, but when you have a large chest, I say they should be tucked in most of the time. For me, an exception is when the top hits at the perfect length at the top of my hips and the fabric is soft and flowy enough that it doesn’t create the dreaded tent effect that often occurs with large busts. What is the tent effect? It’s when the fabric of a shirt hangs out in a tent-like way because the large bust pushes it so far out. This is not the optimal silhouette. To counteract the tent, tuck in your top. I like the front tuck (aka French tuck), but I don’t think there’s one tucking technique that’s superior to the rest. You could also tie your top if it has enough fabric or use one of the twist-tee-knot contraptions like this ONE. The real point is that you’re drawing the fabric back into your waistline to give you more of a shape.
Rock Your Large Bust
Now that you have a few tips to try out, I hope you go out and rock your large bust! The point of all these tips is definitely NOT to hide your chest. The point is to dress in a way that flatters your body and most importantly makes you feel good. Happy outfitting!!
Meet Kelly
Kelly is a middle school math and science teacher with a love for reading, casual fashion, playing the saxophone, gardening, cultivating a 100-item wardrobe, and hanging out with her husband, friends, family, and pugs.
In summer mode, you’ll find her at home, reading in her garden. In teacher mode, you’ll find her figuring out ways to maintain a work-life balance and stick to a 40-hour workweek by being uber-organized. You can explore her blog Teacher Style.
Summer is winding down but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty of time left to style summer clothes. Here in Texas, I’ll be wearing them well into September and sometimes early October. I usually don’t buy a lot of new things toward the end of summer but when I do it’s always exciting to pull them out of storage the next year. Recently I picked up a few pieces at Talbot’s because these colors just spoke to me. Every season, Talbot’s never disappoints, with color trends and fun patterns season after season. Not to mention so many participans in Outfit Formulas have always sung their praises for the high quality of their pieces. The items I’m wearing in today’s post certainly live up to the Talbot’s reputation on all fronts! Even though they incorporate some of the latest colors and patterns, I also feel like these are pieces that will stand the test of time and hold up for many summers to come.
My first pick, of course, was this ladder back stripe dress. This has been the summer of the dress for me in so many ways. As I prepare for a book launch, my days have been consumed with meetings and calls. More days than not, I simply reach for the nearest dress in my closet, throw on some cute sandals and minimal accessories, and BAM – I’m dressed and ready for the day!
Since I’ve heard so many Pretties rave over the quality of Talbot’s white jeans, I had to try a pair for myself. I’ve been dying to try a pair of cropped flare jeans and this pair fit the bill. You weren’t wrong about them. Their white jeans are just the right thickness and have the perfect amount of stretch. It’s no wonder they’re a fan fave! Just add a patterned sleeveless top and you’re good to go. This sleeveless shell had me at palm leaves! I was tempted to get this adorable striped shell but resisted the urge to feed my striped top addiction…at least for now.
Hello Pretties! It’s Pretty Fix time and this bonus look from the Outfit Formulas® Summer 2021 Capsule Wardrobe has got me feeling those sweet summer vibes! I kept it simple with some white shorts and a solid tobacco brown tank top but added tons of extra interest by topping it with this super light kimono. While the kimono has always been one of my favorite summer go-to items, I’m seeing them everywhere this season. What’s also on-trend for summer? Raffia accessories! I’m seeing them in handbags, headbands, earrings, and even sandals.
What is the Pretty Fix you may ask? For the Pretty Fix, I utilize trends mixed with classic closet staples and put together a super easy-to-follow formula. By doing this you’re able to easily keep your outfits feeling fresh and find new inspiration for pieces you already have. Also, the formula gives you the freedom to shop where you want (I always suggest starting with your closet), spend what you want, and interpret the formula to fit your climate and lifestyle. For example, this formula contains a solid top. A brown top may not be for everyone and that’s okay. Pick the solid color that makes you shine! Now let me see your interpretations of this month’s Pretty Fix Outfit Formula! Drop your pictures on the GYPO Pretties Facebook page! Not a member yet? Join it here! Now let’s take a look at this month’s Pretty Fix Outfit Formula!
Kimono + Solid Top + White Bottoms + Neutral Shoes
1. Raffia Headband
Raffia accessories are everywhere this summer and I for one am enjoying this trend! The raffia headband is a great way to keep your hair stylishly out of your way. Wear it alone or combine it with a top knot, messy bun, or high ponytail. If headbands are not your thing there are other easy ways to incorporate raffia into your summer style such as earrings or sandals. Don’t miss the bonus at the bottom for more raffia options.
2. Solid Top
While the solid top options are endless, you want to pick a color that coordinates with your chosen kimono. For my look, I opted for a rich tobacco color brown tank. This plays nicely off the white shorts and looks great with my neutral palette kimono. Also, don’t forget the rule of proportions, since the kimono is on the flowy side, choose a top that’s a little more fitted for a more polished look!
3. Kimono
The kimono has always been my summer go-to! It’s a great way to add tons of detail and interest without adding heat and that is crucial here in Texas. I have a few in my arsenal but this year I added this beautiful neutral number with its tan, black, and cream coloring complemented by pops of orange. Whatever pattern and color combination you pick, you can’t go wrong with a kimono!
4. White Bottoms
Whether white shorts or white pants, I am a huge fan of white bottoms. If you haven’t tried them yet I insist that you do! They go with everything and are a great alternative to denim. They also are an easy way to amp up your outfit. This year I added this pair from J.Crew Factory and I can’t even begin to tell you how much I love them! They cinch in a little at the waist which is perfect for my pear-shaped body.
5. Neutral Shoes
Here’s where you have a little flexibility but what exactly is a neutral shoe? Neutral colors usually fall into shades of brown, black, gray, and white. This means you have lots of shoe options. Typically if your outfit moves towards cooler colors then opt for a black or gray shoe but if you’re in the warm color range, variations of brown are ideal.
6. Straw Tote
Straw is a little heartier than raffia but the concept is still the same. It adds an easy natural element to your summer ensemble, plus it’s really versatile. For everyday use, I love a small straw tote or even a crossbody but there are some really cute straw clutches that are perfect for a night out. When we’re heading to the beach or pool, a large straw tote fits the bill perfectly.
7. Hoop earrings
Yes, a total classic! Can you tell how much I love a simple hoop earring? Even though I choose a hoop earring there are still plenty of options available like silver, gold, or even rose gold. Plus you can pick ones that have a cute hammered detail or find ones that are small and dainty. However for this look, if you want something a little different, you can skip the headband and opt for some fun raffia earrings instead.
Bonus – Raffia Accessories
Earlier talked about raffia accessories and I promised to share some more of them with you. Below are some great raffia additions to any outfit. I’m partial to the earrings but I also added a pair of raffia sandals to my closet and I’ve already worn them multiple times. What accessory is your favorite?
The Outfit Formulas® Summer 2021 Capsule Wardrobe guide includes 33 days of casual outfit ideas with “dress it up” and “dress it down” tips so that these looks work for every lifestyle! You also get a shopping list of easy, low cost essentials that are already on trend today, including accessories!
Who’s ready for summer? I am, well, now I am with these easy summer outfit formulas®. Last summer, as we were headed into the unknown, it was hard to get motivated, hard to get dressed and I for one really didn’t add much to my closet because I wasn’t leaving my house. However, this summer I feel brings new hope as things are opening up and people are getting back out. Typically I only add a few pieces to help freshen things up because I have such a great foundation of closet staples. This summer though, there were so many fun pieces that were hard to resist and to be honest, I think I was making up for last year. That’s why I decided to up my closet game and add some colorful and fun new pieces to my summer capsule wardrobe.
Now to pair up all these cute new pieces. Although I may have added a bit more than I planned on that doesn’t mean I went rogue. I still added pieces that are versatile and fairly timeless. They can be paired up in so many ways and even though summer is just beginning, I’ve already worn some items numerous times. And to help you with your style I’ve included five summer Outfit Formulas® below plus you can download my free guide HERE. The best thing about using the outfit formulas® is that like me, you may have many of these closet staples already on hand but if you have any gaps, you can shop where you want and with whatever budget you want! All the looks featured below are just a small part of this year’s Outfit Formulas® Summer 2021 Capsule Wardrobe which is currently available. Now let’s get started!
Outfit Formula #1
Denim Jacket + White Top + Bright Bottoms + Colorful Shoes
I’m wearing pretty much everything from above. My denim jacket has been one of my closet staples for years but it’s still from J.Crew Factory like the one above and my green shorts are also from J.Crew Factory. I bought them a few years ago but they are still available. This is a great summer outfit with some pops of color. The best part is the shirt and jacket are a neutral meaning you can pick whatever color shorts you want!
Outfit Formula #2
Gingham Top + Denim Bottoms + White Sneakers
The only thing closet shopped for this look are my white Keds sneakers and everything else is from above. I love the classic and timeless look of a gingham print and this sleeveless shirt is the perfect addition to my closet. My shorts are from H&M and here is another similar pair.
Outfit Formula #3
Denim Jacket + Solid Top 2 + White Bottoms + Colorful Shoes
I love mixing my denim jacket with something super soft and unexpected. Last spring I paired up a light pink long pleated skirt and this spring it’s this fabulous white eyelet skirt. The pink top is from my closet but any solid top will work with this neutral base.
Outfit Formula #4
Chambray Top + Printed Dress + White Sneakers
I’m wearing everything pictured above except for my white Keds sneakers. I can’t tell you enough how much I love this dress! It’s so comfortable and I even wore it for my daughter’s graduation party. Paired with some white sneakers, it’s the perfect casual outfit yet a simple swap to some heels and you instantly have a look perfect for date night!
Outfit Formula #5
Black Top + Khaki Bottoms + Raffia Shoes
I think this is one of my favorite looks, and yes I know I say that a lot but this one is very classic yet very comfortable. I’m wearing everything pictured above except for my black ruffled sleeve top. The khaki linen shorts surprised me the most. They are oh so comfortable and even though they are a looser fitting short, they still look classy and sophisticated. Plus the raffia slides add some cute detail.
Your turn! Which outfit formula are you excited to rock this summer?
The Outfit Formulas® Summer 2021 Capsule Wardrobe guide includes 33 days of casual outfit ideas with “dress it up” and “dress it down” tips so that these looks work for every lifestyle! You also get a shopping list of easy, low cost essentials that are already on trend today, including accessories!
I have always been a fan of monochromatic outfits. It’s an easy and quick way to pull together an outfit that looks chic and polished. This summer, however, monochromatic outfits are definitely having their moment. They can be seen all over Pinterest, in your favorite magazine, and in retailers’ advertisements. But what exactly is are monochromatic outfits? While it typically means dressing in one single color, it can also mean choosing pieces from the same color family, just with varying tints or shades. For instance, I love a solid black ensemble with a pop of color either using a fun heel, a statement necklace, or a top layer. This is my go-to look especially when it comes to holiday parties which you can read about HERE.
For summer though, I’m enjoying all the bright color selections as well as the earth-tone neutrals. This is one trend that’s definitely fun to play with. That’s why I thought it would be a great look for this month’s Style Your Budget. What is Style Your Budget? It’s where I offer an outfit formula for inspiration and then style it at different price points. For some items, you may be able to shop your closet and if you find any gaps, I offer different price points to fill in those gaps. While the formula this month is pretty simple, the pairing options are endless. What color palette will you choose for your monochromatic outfits?
Do you struggle to put outfits together? Are you stuck in a yoga pants rut? Not sure if you can make the latest trends work for you? You’re in the right place!
I’m Alison, a mom of three and recovering yoga pants addict on a mission to make getting dressed and feeling pretty the easiest thing you do all day! Learn more about my story HERE.
I am so glad I was part of the Fall 2019 Style Challenge. It gave me confidence and so many great outfitt ideas. The ladies in the group were very supportive and I will defintetly be doing another challenge in the future.
Betty Weyandt December 20, 2019
I’ve been participating in the GYPO Style Challenges for three years now and I’ve loved it. I’ve always loved clothes, but I didn’t know how to put outfits together. My closet is now full of mix-and-match outfits, I have learned how to dress myself, and there is no more stress in figuring out to wear. The private FB group is full of wonderful ladies that build each other up. It’s so fun and is seriously the best group on FB.
Kirstin Rasmussen November 20, 2019
Get Your Pretty On has changed my life, seriously. I have always chased what is trendy but found from season to season, that things go out of style and I was wasting money on items that I would only end up wearing a few times. GYPO has enabled me to simplify my closet, helps me make smarter purchasing decisions, and I feel so put together and confident using the outfit formulas that are provided. This program is a GAME CHANGER. I've been following GYPO for a few years now and my only regret is not jumping on board sooner.
Michelle Kline November 20, 2019
Great community of ladies, helping each other look stylish, without breaking the bank, and using much of what you already own.
Chosen Faith November 19, 2019
GYPO challenges have been one of the best things I have done! It had taught me so much more than just creating a closet of clothes that I love but also to have confidence in myself, how to pick and choose colors that work for me instead of against, and had given a wonderful community of Pretties who are so special.
Maraline Freeman October 16, 2019
I love GYPO!!! I finally feel put together and stylish! The shopping lists and outfit combinations make shopping and getting dressed effortless.
Krista Probst October 16, 2019
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