Ribcage issue

anne

When I stand in profile, the bottom of my rib cage is about parallel to my bust - ie sticks out as much. Does anyone else have this?

And any hints as to how to dress it?

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9 years ago

Body Type

15 replies

Latest reply was from Beth Ann

Joy

Veteran

I used to have this issue but my body has changed enough that it is not as noticeable. To add volume where it is needed I'd suggest ruffles, pussy bow blouses, scarves, shift dresses that stand away from the body a little. Woven fabrics in general. Knits can just highlight the areas. I remember having a horrible time finding swim suits and loved one with layers of ruffles on the top. I also resorted to using a padded bra if needed. Your strong shoulder line helps keep things balanced, which is probably why you notice most in profile.

9 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Almost, Anne. Your best defence is terrific posture and a really, really good bra. I don't wear padded bras but do wear ones with underwire and some of them are molded (which in effect gives a bit of padding). It makes a big difference.

Ultimately, it's just one of those body type modifiers, you know? Nobody else notices it the way you do.

I like the fluid fits because they help to disguise the issue a bit.

9 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

This is not an issue - it's just who you are. And that's plenty fabulous. I echo Suz a billion percent with her body type modifying strategies. Fluid fits and good posture are top of the list. xo

9 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Also, Anne, when I look at your pic in profile that is not what I see. I see a slim woman who is in good shape and has a slightly rectangular build. That's what our bodies are like -- straight lines. And it's okay.

9 years ago

unfrumped

Veteran

Never have seen anything amiss. You look fit and fab. Keep on stylin'.

9 years ago

Gigi

Veteran

Anne, I have it too. I am a rectangle on top and an hourglass on bottom. I agree that the best way to help it is with a good bra. But like Suz says, it's just the way our bodies are.

9 years ago

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

I have a large rib cage (difficult for fitted dresses) and small bust. I don't see a picture of you here to compare. I agree with Suz completely about the bra fit and posture. I do pilates and the instructor is always telling me draw your lower ribs down and together / close your costal arch as part of her overall work with me on posture. It's the kind of thing you wouldn't think to do unless someone mentioned it specifically.

9 years ago

Anonymous

What recommendations are there for mild scoliosis? My physical therapist figured out one of my hips is higher than the other and that the opposite hip is more forward. X-rays done after her discovery confirmed it. So far it's mild and not noticeable. I'm hoping it doesn't get worse because I don't want to have problems with my clothes. Sigh... At least I don't have a leg length discrepancy. I had her check to make sure.

9 years ago

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

Pilates helps. If you really want to target it very specifically do PT with someone specialized in Schroth method.

9 years ago

Anonymous

I'll have to look into that. I have severe lower back pain and have to do exercises specially modified for me by my PT. I don't want to turn this post into a compaint, but I can't lie down for even 5 minutes without incurring severe pain. On top of that, I have what I've been told is osteoarthritis in my feet, knees and hands. What seems to help the most, besides pain meds, are the stretching exercises.

9 years ago

anne

Veteran

Have just added a photograph

9 years ago

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

Yeah that's me.

9 years ago

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Anne -- you are wearing a sports bra. Those bras tend to press flat and minimize any bust a woman has. This bra is not "lifting" you up in any way, but flattening you.

9 years ago

anne

Veteran

Thanks to everyone who wrote in, specially Suz for writing in 3 times!!
Suz I'd realise your point about the sports bra. But I just didn't want to take a pic of any other sort of bra! I do have a couple of great bras with underwire, moulding and some padding and they do help. Thanks for your other suggestions, and Joy's too.
Gigi - snap - curvy on the bottom, stright on top right?

BTW I did know that "issue" wasn't perhaps the right word

Ummila - what you said about pilates was really interesting and not something I'd ever heard before (even though I have done a few pilates classes)

Betty Crocker - I have mild scolosis too and I never thought that it might be contributing to the ribcage thing. I am very sorry about your pain.

9 years ago

Beth Ann

Veteran

I have a larger rib cage, Anne. I'm not sure if it's hereditary, or a result of years of classical singing (we have to keep the ribs open longer with every breath while singing). This is independent of weight. I think the elongated forms of models and photo shop are making us forget what a real female torso looks like!

Did you see this HuffPost making the rounds recently? Check out the original forms -- compare the neck to the waist!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/.....d=fcbklnku

Actually, I think your rib cage balances your hips and shoulders -- it's entirely in scale with your body. As for posture, I can't use the Pilates prompt Ummilla mentions -- I'd not be able to sing with closed ribs. I elongate instead.

Clothing wise, I think a good bra is your first asset. Neckline details add interest and dimension, and a belted waist will also create definition. Remember -- we see your shoulders and hips together when we see you. This creates a curvy line for the eye.

9 years ago

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