Polka Dot Cropped JacketIt comes as no surprise that the cropped trapeze jacket is one of the “it” styles for Spring. We started seeing hints of this boxy silhouette come through last season. The public’s adoption of this fringe trend has caused it to filter down to mainstream retailers this year. This boxy 60’s-inspired style will be more flattering than you think if keep three things in mind when you re-create the look:

  • Keep it snug on your shoulders. The shape that you lose on your waist (due to the A-line nature of the style) must be compensated by the shape that you gain around the shoulder area. You will loose the flattering element of this style if it does not fit your shoulders properly.
  • Keep it short. Above or on the waistline is preferable especially if you are a pretty pear or petite body type.
  • Keep the layer underneath long and lean. Showing your waistline is imperative if this boxy style is to work. A knitted longer length top is the perfect solution

I’ve never advocated boxy styles, because form-fitting clothing is usually more flattering. But I was pleasantly surprised at how well this style worked if I adhered to the points above. This held true when dressing several different body types. Have you tried the cropped trapeze jacket?

Sashimi Cap Sleeve Two Button Jacket Sashimi Three Button Swing Jacket French Connection 'Honky Tonk' Jersey Jacket

Cropped trapeze jackets from Sashimi and French connection, available at Nordstrom.