Keeping it All In Proportion - YouLookFab Forum

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Keeping it All In Proportion

Beth Ann

Veteran

Now, many of you have probably already mastered the magic of pleasing proportions. While I resist fashion "rules," like ----- "To look slimmer never wear looser fits, because they'll make you look wider," I do recognize that some of my silhouettes seem to be more pleasing. I think, in a subconscious move to find these ideal proportions, I've been drawn both to longer jackets and skirts --- although I don't necessarily wear them together. My shorter jackets, and even my longer tailored jackets seem to work with longer skirts. My higher waisted wide leg pants work with shorter jackets., while my skinnies work best with longer toppers.

1/2 New JAG bootcuts (these have a "pull on" waistband, so no tucking, but they're as comfy as jammies without the downsides of too much stretch. I'm wearing 3" heels

3/4 My new Bobeau midi. I'm wearing flat boots, but I think I look as long legged as I did in my jeans because of the proportions.

I'm hitting closer to the mark now, but I still don't "understand" enough to become more consistent. Anyone have any suggestions?

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Dressing

14 replies

Latest reply was from Aziraphale

jenanded

Veteran

hey Beth Ann - the photos wont open but looking at the thumbnail size here... Is it the 1/3 2/3rd rule that says it is more pleasing to have uneven lengths rather than an outfit being half and half vertically (does that make sense???) so short jacket and long skirt, long jacket and shorter bottom piece -= but think that is length AND colour breakups...
Then there is the loose tight rule which you are talking of...From what I can see I think you are mastering these ideas... and then there is the hourglass rule of waist waist waist... guess that keeps the top and bottom bits in line more... All fun trying on... Your stuff has been great over the last few months so think much of this is happening!

lyn67

Veteran

Wow, BethAnn-these are both fab!!!! I think you look even more long legged in second outfit, no matter the flat boots, it's the sleek cut of the dress and the right proportions- as you said! I am a skirt/and dress girl in winter for exactly this reason-love the comfiness of the flat riding boots, but cannot tuck jeans in, because of my muscular calves:-(.
I also love the strong colors, the cobalt is one I never wore as can look too harsh on me no contrast face and thin haired blonde, but esp love it on you. (now am inspired to try it on my lower half, maybe on a skirt?)
I love the first outfit, very much, too-blouse is perfect length, and envy you walking like a real diva (you are!) on those 3 inch heels!
All together, YLGorgeous!:-)

bj1111

Veteran

i didn't think you needed a tutorial on proportions. i've always admired how pleasing and flattering your looks are to your proportions. even things that i didn't think would work in concept, i liked in execution...eg the dress you made for the xmas concert.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Agreeing with BJ here...you are already a mistress of proportion. But I also hear you -- you want to know why what is working, works, so you can carry it forward.

Both these looks are absolutely stunning on you.

With #1, there are a number of things going on. You almost have a column of colour because the dark jacket and pants are close enough to create this effect. Try it with a lighter top or bottom and see if you like it as much. You might....but seeing would be instructive.

The jacket in #1 shows us your waist, which is also really helpful.
Usually the advice for skirts is long jacket over short skirt, but if your jackets have enough waist definition and you're wearing heels (and/or a column of colour) I think one can often get away with long over long with a pencil skirt. It might not be idea, but it can work.

As for #2, I SWOON. I love the Bobeau skirt so much...I think you look especially lovely in this skirt because it tapers in, showing your shape -- this really adds to the long-leggedness. Tall boots (even flat heeled ones) also elongate the legs, I have found, which is one reason that tucked-into-boots look has become, and to some extent remains, popular.

I love these posts. For myself, I have tremendous difficulty with a longer, loose, boyfriend type jacket -- I haven't yet met one that works very well on me. And I tend to look good in those that end around the mid hip whether I am wearing pants OR dresses/ skirts.

Sarah A

Veteran

I would say you have figured out the proportions wonderfully. The wider leg trousers work beautifully with the drapey printed top and longer jacket. I think the drape up top works really well with the structure of the pant. #2 I am going to have to come get that skirt! Totally FAB! I love the grays with the cobalt and the jacket floats above your hip very nicely. I like that the boot shaft is taller than the skirt hem, I find this a very classic elegant look, but the the polka dots make it so fun at the same time. I'm taking lessons from you here!

catherine

Veteran

Beth Ann, you look just wonderful in both of these.

Tina.b

Veteran

Beth Ann, I think you excel at creating perfect proportion. The way you've used your jackets really defines your shape and your legs seem to go on for miles below. You look great in the boot cuts. My fav though is the skirt, just accentuates your great shape. And the colour of the jacket on top is so beautiful on you. Love both of these!

Anonymous

You look amazing in both these outfits. Suz is so good at figuring out the details. Her analysis makes sense with your own jacket length observations.

Anonymous

Beth Ann, these proportions look absolutely perfect. I agree with all of your suppositions as well. I've had the same experience with my short and long jackets. Those fashion rules floating around out there came into existence for a reason. While I bristle at "having" to follow them, many of them serve me well. My eye has to get used to new proportions that I consider unflattering. Once everyone out there is wearing them, then I'm suddenly okay with the look (low-rise skinny jeans, I'm looking at you).

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Based on these two absolutely stunning outfits Beth Ann, I don't think you need any help with proportions at all. Suz has provided you with an excellent explanation on why these outfits work (she is soooooo good at analysis, isn't she?).

Beth Ann

Veteran

Anyone ever responded on their own thread, and then failed to submit? Well, I just did! Let me see if i can recap:

Jen: Do you have any ponte in your wardrobe? I can see a ponte jacket or skirt doing well for you. I also think you could easily wear a floaty top with a jacket topper --- the jacket can lengthen, gently shape and control volume.

Lyn: I followed "color" rules for more than a decade, before I realized that my bum was exempted! A pair of cobalt pants or jeans, perhaps?

BJ: Thanks for the boost -- I feel like I'm struggling to get to the next "style breakthough," like something's baking, but it's not quite done. Must be patient and enjoy what I'm already learned on the journey.

Suz: Thanks for taking the time to do a little analysis. I did try a high-contrast version of #1 which worked, but I think there is enough black visible in the jacket to keep the vertical line.(see photo) I never really thought of tall boots as "lengthening, but your right, I think.

As for the boyfriend jacket -- I tried this one on a lark, I didn't think it would work for me either. This one has a little shaping, and a low stance without being overly long. I

Sarah: Form with Flow is part of my style rubric. Thinking about the balance of structure and drape made a big difference in my happiness factor with my wardrobe! Thank heavens for living in an age of stretch fabrications!

Catherine: Thanks for the encouragement, now I just need one or two of your leather jackets!

Tina: I can tell from your posts that you take care in your proportions and silhouette. Thanks for the boost!

Joy: Your tonal outfits have been stunning lately, Joy. And you're right, the forum is such a help!

Claire: Just read a long list of "How to Look Slimmer" rules in InStyle. Sheesh. The forum is so much more helpful!

Thanks, Shannon! I think I'm slowly getting it! More midis! Longer tops (so hard to find) PPL! Now, as long as I remember to have fun, I'm set!

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Suz

(website)

Veteran

Yeah - this totally works - but you still have a column of colour (more or less) because of the near match in pants and jacket. I was wondering how it would look with a contrast between jacket and trousers. Again, it might work great - but it might not be as pleasing.

Beth Ann

Veteran

Good thinking, Suz. I'll try it this weekend. Even if it doesn't work, I'll grow in understanding!

Aziraphale

Veteran

Beth Ann, I think you have completely nailed the proportions in all those outfits. You look chic and elegant. Awesome!

I agree with you that longer jackets generally work better with skinnier, low-rise jeans, and vice versa. I've got a different shape than you, but it's true for me as well. I wonder if it's true for everybody.