8 Steps to Stylishly Dress Your Pear Shaped Figure

Beyoncé’s “Bootylicious” may have made it famous — and Kim Kardashian put the cherry on top — but nowadays, everyone’s going crazy for some killer curves. 

I always encourage embracing your naturally beautiful body type, and this is one time when the saying holds true: If you’ve got it, flaunt it. Meaning, if you’ve been hiding a shapely hourglass for all of these years, it’s time to learn how to flatter (and celebrate) your fuller figure.

Pear Shaped Celebrities:

The pear body shape is the most common female body shape. Grab a mirror and take a look: If your hips and backside are wider than your shoulders, you're the lucky owner of a pear-shaped body. 

Pear-shaped bodies typically have a smaller bustline, defined waist, and narrow shoulders as well. Depending on your overall proportions, bustier pears may actually be an hourglass body style.

Keep your proportions in check by drawing the eye to your upper body while de-emphasizing your lower half. 

You'll look smashing with these eight stylish tricks!

DRAW ATTENTION TO YOUR UPPER BODY

1

Choose tops in bright colors and prints. 

The main goal of dressing a pear figure is to draw attention to the torso and away from the hips and thighs. Outfit your upper body in bold colors and big prints. These catch the eye at the top, making your shoulders and chest seem a bit broader than they actually are.

2

Look for bust-enhancing necklines. Certain necklines are better for a pear-shaped figure, as they broaden the shoulders and emphasize the bust. Wide necklines like boat-necks and scoop-necks visually widen your shoulders. Bust-enhancing necklines like sweetheart necks draw attention to the bust, making it look fuller. Strapless tops and dresses can also make your shoulders and bust look wider, but may not be a comfortable choice for every pear-shaped girl.

3

Choose fits that highlight your waist. Deciding between tight and loose can be difficult, as there are pros and cons to each. Look for tops that are tight around the waist and highlight an hourglass figure. Loose tops should be worn a bit long so as to cover the hips and provide substance for the shoulders. In general, the fit of your shirts should aim to highlight your waist and shoulders, something that can be accomplished with the right combination of tight and loose.

4

Layer your tops. Bulking up with layers adds bulk to your torso, which evens out your body’s proportions. Use layers of tank tops, blouses, and cardigans to create visual interest and give the illusion of added size. If you’re using multiple layers which take away the smallness of your waist, use a thin belt to cinch them in and give yourself that hourglass figure again.

5

Look for embellished tops. Shirts that have adornment near the neck elongate the shoulder and neckline. Select a load of shirts which have beading, bows, or collars near your neck. These can be large or small, as they both accomplish the same task of drawing the eye upwards and away from your bottom half. You can also choose to wear a scarf to the same effect.

6

Look for tops with wide sleeves. Although it’s not always easy to find wide-sleeved shirts, keep an eye out for styles like bell and kimono sleeves. Wide sleeves add volume to your arms, and as a result, your naturally voluminous hips and rear look more balanced and proportioned. If nothing else, try to wear shirts that have rolled or scrunched sleeves; these also add volume to your arms, but without making such a bold fashion statement.

7

Choose shirts that skim over your hips. Look for tops that skim over your hips; tops that extend just below you hipbone extend your torso and mask the widest part of your hips. Avoid hemlines that reach down to your thighs, however, since these will only make the widest part of your legs look wider. On the flip side, crop tops should be widely avoided for drawing attention to your midsection, which is too close to your hips to be flattering.

8

Wear supportive undergarments. Your entire upper body can undergo a major transformation when you wear the right undergarments. Consider a padded bra or push-up bra. This will add volume to a small bust, and accentuate an hourglass waist. Look for a natural style that can be worn under both casual and dress clothes.^[1]

As always, leave a comment below or private message me at: styledbydeanna@gmail.com if you need more helpful tips to dress your shape, effortlessly!

Stay Stylish Loves!!

DeAnna 

Sources & Cites: 
1. www.sheknows.com
2. www.wikihow.com 

Dressing the Beautiful Apple-Shape

As you girls you may know, I really hate defining your beautiful bodies by fruits and geometric shapes. Unfortunately this is a learned behavior, and I have to meet you where you are. Society has taught you you're either an apple, a diamond, or some other weird moniker. With that being said, here's to you, my dear, the apple-shaped beauty! 

If you have an apple-shaped body, then your body is "top heavy," meaning you have a wide torso, broad shoulders, and a full bust, waist, and upper back. Apple-shaped bodied women also tend to have thinner arms, legs, and hips, and tend to gain weight at their waistlines. If you have an apple shaped-body, then you should be proud of your full figure and get ready to flaunt it. But if you want to show off what you've got, you need to dress appropriately. If you want to know how to really dress to flatter your apple-shaped body, then follow these steps.

1

Make sure you have an apple-shaped body. Before you begin to think about dressing for your body type, you should confirm that you do indeed have an apple shaped body. Some people mistake a pear-shaped body for an apple-shaped body. An apple shaped-body is heavy in the middle and above the waist, while a pear-shaped body is heavier below the waist and in the upper thighs. Here are some other characteristics of the apple-shaped body:[1]  

• A wide torso
• Broad shoulders
• An average-to-fuller bust
• An undefined waist
• Thinner arms and legs
• A flat bottom
• Hips that are narrower than your bust
• You don't have to have a very large belly to be apple shaped -- it just means that your center of gravity, or your extra weight, resides in your belly area.

2

Draw attention away from your middle. To dress your apple-shaped body, you'll want to take attention away from your middle, since it's already full. To draw attention away from your middle, avoid low shorts or pants, high-cut shirts, or any fabric length that cuts off below or above your middle. You'll want to distract people from your middle by directing their attention elsewhere or by creating more definition in your waistline.

• You should also avoid wearing an outfit with a different pattern in the belly area. This will draw more attention to your belly.
• Avoid wearing thick belts, which will draw more attention to your middle.
• Avoid clingy shirts or dresses, which will also draw attention to your middle.

3

Emphasize your bust. If you have an apple-shaped body, then you must have a great bust, so don't be afraid to flaunt it. Showing off your bust will not only emphasize one of your most amazing features, but it will also take attention away from your middle. To emphasize your bust, you should wear v-necks, plunging necklines, or A-line dresses, to lengthen your body and draw attention to your bust.

• Wear shirts or dresses that flow from under your bust, expanding at the waist.
• Remember that drawing attention to your bust is different from looking top-heavy. You don't need to wear elaborate necklaces or tops with ornate patterns near the neck. You already have a great bust, so it needs no adornments. INVEST IN UNDERGARMENTS!!

BONUS: Choose the right shape. Though your shirt or top shouldn't be clingy, it shouldn't be boxy, baggy, or formless, either. If it's too loose, you'll only look more shapeless and your waist will look bigger. Instead, pick a shirt or top that flows downward from your bust, like a top with a high-waistline, empire waist, or A-line. 

Here are some things to keep in mind as you choose the shape of your top: ^[2]

• A shirt or dress that has a tie at the waist will also help add definition to your figure.
• Your tops should fall lower than your hip bones.
• You can wear a long flowing top that falls below your bottom, or even a tunic shirt.
• Wear tops with flare or cuff sleeves.
• Choose a top with pretty shoulder details, like sequins or flowers.

I really hope this helps you, beauty. If you have any questions, concerns about dressing your shape, adding flare, or even proper undergarments, please don't hesitate to comment below, or send me a private email: styledbydeanna@gmail.com

Here's to your style, and beauty!

Stylishly Yours,

DeAnna

Sources and Citations

• 1. http://www.joyofclothes.com/style-advice/shape-guides/the-apple.php
  2. http://www.thechicfashionista.com/apple-body-shape.html
  3. http://www.typef.com/article/dress-large-belly/

5 Wardrobe Staples to Look Rich & Fabulous for LESS!

DeAnna's Style Tips for FAB Living.

I've noticed a trend happening, and I'm not happy about it. I've noticed this whole "comfy" look worn by women, and men, that's just downright unacceptable. I don't know who started this whole "its ok to rock pajamas to the grocery store," trend but whomever you are, I wish for you to take TWO SEATS!

Gone are the days when women dress like Women. And men dress like Men. Why? When did it become acceptable to wear leggings and an oversized shirt to business meetings? Or (men) stonewashed jeans, a ridiculously worn tee shirt and blazer to a first date? Not ok, people!

I hear it all the time, "I don't have a dispensable income to shop the way you do, DeAnna."Um, no no no! I beg to differ, my dear. I shop like a 75 year old cat-woman on a fixed income. I simply know how to shop for Staples that will take me year-around, and also help me look sharp, wealthy, and effortlessly fabulous. 

Without further adieu:

1. A Statement Handbag 

Whether you go for bright colors, bold prints or color blocked handbags let your bag do all the talking.

Statement bags are great because they can really add that “oomph” to a look that is plain or lacking color as well as add an unexpected and fun element to whatever you are rockin’.

The great news is your bag does NOT have to match your outfit so you can cross off all the “do not mix colors and print” rules and LIVE!

2. Accessories

Yes, we can have the same style and grace (pun intended) as the incomparable Grace Kelley. Princess Grace literally has on a shawl. YET her eye-wear, scarf, and bracelet give her a perfectly polished look. This is the epitome of Effortless Style.

3. Personal Grooming

I love this slide! You'd think I wouldn't have to share this, but I do (she sighs). 

Quick tips from the Etiquette Coach: Looking good is feeling good • Dress up properly for the occasion • A neat and tidy appearance is mandatory • Ensure that the clothes you wear fit you well • Do not wear too revealing clothes • Clothes must be ironed well and shoes polished • Avoid wearing too many ornaments or heavy makeup -Women • Hair and nails must be trimmed properly – Men • Use subtle deodorants/antiperspirants • Maintain oral hygiene • Wear clean socks – avoid body odor • Walk with confidence • These few tips and/or changes will have you walking with your head held high, looking good, and smelling good. Nuff said (drops the mic).

4. Undergarments

 

From a camisoles to strapless bras to shapewear, undergarments are the foundation of your look. For the sake of not boring you, please just take a quick gander at the list compiled in the image above.  These few items are a MUST in the "foundation" department. Undergarments give you a smooth, polished, and solid look. Your posture will even change! I promise you. 

Oh! If you're in need of a forreal shaper (NOT SPANX)  that holds ALL the goodies, and gives an hourglass silhouette WITHOUT rolling down, send me a private email to: styledbydeanna@gmail.com I love these shapers! 

5. Go Thrifting!

You'd be surprised how many amazing finds I've stumbled upon at the local Goodwill and Salvation Army. I've literally found a Coach Hobo bag (still tagged), Michael Kors shoes (still in box), and a beautiful Swarovski cocktail ring, Under $50 FOR ALL 3!! Yes, its true! Don't frown your nose at the screen, trust me. Take a little trip to Beverly Hills or Palos Verdes and I guarantee you'll hit the jackpot in these thrift stores. 

Pssst! I have a little secret. There's this crazy amazing app I found that literally has thousands of high-end designer clothing for less than 80% off the retail price. Now I cant just go telling errrbody, so shoot me an email and I'll invite to this exclusive club. Yes, its invite only, honey! 

Til next time, lovelies!!

Find me on IG and Twitter @deannadupree 

Please like my FB Page: www.facebook.com/SimplyDeAnnaDuPree

Subscribe to my YouTube channel  here. 

Shop My Closet HERE!

Visit my site. 

Stay Classy!

5 Fab Ways to Look Slimmer...TODAY!

By Harpers Bazaar...of course!

1. BELT YOUR BLAZER

Belted looks appeared on the Spring 2015 runways at Tome, Céline and Bottega Veneta, and are an easy option to transform your look and create a waist.

2. COMBINE BLACK AND NAVY

Navy was a standout hue during the Spring 2015 collections (namely at Calvin Klein and The Row), and combining the classic shade with black is both super chic and instantly flattering.

3. TRY HIGH WAISTED PANTS

High waisted trousers are instant body transformers. The style works as an immediate waist cincher and lengthens the legs, plus, they're just as effective on shorter frames.

4. INVEST IN A NUDE HEEL

Invest in one shoe this Spring: the nude heel. The miracle worker instantly creates the impression of longer, leaner legs and works with every outfit combination.

 

5. MAKE IT A FLOOR-GRAZING COAT

On those days it's still chilly enough to throw on a topper, try a longer shape that almost hits the ground. The length makes the wearer look taller and creates a longer, leaner silhouette when paired with skinny jeans and heels.

Need help with these fabulous finds? Not to worry. Hire me for a fun and fabulous Personal Shopping Day and we will go paint the town RED!! I also have virtual shopping packages. Contact me: via email: getstyled@deannastylehaus.com or visit my website: www.styledbydeana.biz 

Rock Your Shape in All White

A special edition blog written by our fabulous Guest Blogger,  Brittany Sha'Vonne...

Battle of the Budge: A Summertime Solution

Summer time is approaching, and I know you are just excited as I am! This is the season of fun in the sun beach days, brunch and mimosas, and comfy shopping shenanigans...in our favorite maxi dresses!

With this season comes our “battle of the bulge” moments, as we often find ourselves hiding beautiful figures beneath black overlays. Now ladies, don’t get me wrong. I think black is sophisticated, classic, and chic. But as your Style Therapist, I assure you that you can look absolutely flawless in any color this summer, not just black!
Hiding your beautiful figures beneath black layers is definitely a fashion don’t that I urge you to drop, and it all starts with choosing the maxi dress that is perfect for you!

A Maxi Dress?! Yes ladies, you heard right! A maxi dress! The Maxi dress makes for the perfect summer ensemble; they are comfy, flowy, trendy, and everything glamorous. They can be dressed up or down and can complement just about any occasion. But, not only that: maxi dresses come in all sorts of styles that are specifically tailored to complement various shapes and sizes --- even without the use of the color black. Maxi dresses aren’t just for some fashionistas; maxi dresses are for all fashionistas. What makes them so fashion-forward is that anyone can wear them and look absolutely stunning.


Now, ladies; I know that adding color splashes to your wardrobe may be an uncomfortable adjustment for you, especially if you are accustomed to using dark tones to give yourself a slimming look. But this summer, choose to be bold and spontaneous by treating yourself to a color-spruced collection of maxi dresses. Whether you are the diva who will live for the classic bolds, or sashay around in stylish prints, there is a maxi dress out there made just for YOU, catering to your body and flaunting your shape in all of the right places.

Body Shape Solutions: 

Have an Hourglass Figure? Indulge in a solid and steamy bold maxi that will accentuate your curves in all of the right places with a comfortable and flowy feel.


Rectangular Figure: paint your body in a printed maxi that will provide a natural enhancement to your bust and hips and also give you a more defined waistline.

Pear Shaped Figure: If you want to take away the attention from your bottom, spruce your closet with a soft summer tone that comes with a drawstring or belt to add more definition to your waist. This will give you an overall slimming, polished, and chic look.


Apple Shaped Figure: Grace your figure with a fringed ruffle maxi that will minimize the volume of your bust and core while giving you the perfect sleek, slimming look. 

Maxi's are also the perfect piece to camouflage our shapewear undergarments. My absolute favorite shapers are from Ruby Ribbon and Ardyss. Both companies offer sleek, comfy, and durable shapers for the girl on-the-go.
Click the links above to take a look around. Message me below or privately if you'd like a personal fitting. 

Til then.

Love the body you're in!

Stylishly Yours

DeAnna 

Contributing Writer/Guest Blogger: Brittany Shavonne

Shop The Look: Click on your figure to get the look!

HourGlass Halter Maxi

Rectangle Print Maxi

Pear Shaped Luxe Salmon Maxi

Apple Shaped Fringe Cami Maxi 

6 Style Choices that's Adding 10 lbs to Your Look Pt. 2

In part 1 of this blog series I left off with 3 style trends and choices that I believe are adding 10 pounds (or more) to your everyday look. For an overview, click here. 

In the spirit of togetherness, I'm gonna cluster numbers 4 and 5. It just makes sense. Drum roll please...

#4 & #5. Super Tight Tees and Low Rise Jeans. ewk!

 
I can just see you now, slumping down in your chair, hiding your face. You know you aint right, girl! I can still see you, lol.


All I'm gonna say about this dynamic duo is this: If ANY body parts are hanging out, peeking out, spilling out, or just down right out...ITS TOO SMALL AND NOT FOR YOU!

I'm all for rocking a cute little tee and a pair of skinny's but not at the expense of my dignity.  Your muffin top is nobody's business. Pairing these two choices together actually reveals your true body shape and size, and leaves little to no room for the imagination. 

Don't get all huffy. With every problem, there is always a solution. So if you're looking to rock a super hot pair of skinnys that wraps the curves and makes you look great, try NYDJ (Not Your Daughters Jeans), available at Nordstrom. These are the perfect tummy tuck jeans, with a fabulous booty lift. 

 

#6. Baggy Jeans 

Why, oh why, is this trend back in style???

Ladies, I'm not sure if you're aware of this, but you are a Lady, not some grunge college dude aspiring to be a world-class skateboarder. This look is never ok. 

Your clothing should be tight enough to show you're a woman, and loose enough to show you're a lady. Thank the fabulous Edith Head for that quote. 

 

Seriously, simply because Cosmo says Jessica Simpson looks hot in her baggy jeans, does not mean it's okay for average gals like us to rock them. This look adds more inches to your thighs, and tummy area. I urge you to find tailored jeans, and pants to complement that fabulous shape you have, regardless of how large or small it is. 

So, there you  have it! My top six style trends that are adding more pounds that pow. If you saw yourself in some of these images, just know you're not alone. Simply by reading this blog, you are on the right track to effortlessly chic style. You must first admit there's a problem, then seek the solution. 

I pray I've given you a bit of insight into a better wardrobe selection for your day to day. 

Did you know I offer virtual styling sessions? These sessions give me an opportunity to meet women just like you from all over the world. We discuss your wardrobe challenges, and I help you find a more fabulous and affordable solution. Interested? Comment below or drop me a line: getstyled@deannastylehaus.com and we'll set up some time to chat. 

Until Then My Sweet,

Stay Classy. Stay Fabulous. Stay in YOUR Power! 

DeAnna

Tweet Me: @DeAnnaDuPree

Find Me on IG: @DeAnnaDuPree

Like Me on FB: SimplyDeAnnaDuPree

6 Style Choices That Add 10 Pounds to Your Look

I'm all for dressing with the trends, well maybe just a few, but there comes a time when I (your go to Style Concierge) MUST be of sound wisdom and judgement when sending you out to the streets. My job is to turn heads due to your fabulous and effortlessly chic style, NOT because you look a hot mess.

While out and about I've observed about six style trends that's adding more than ten pounds to the looks of many women. Now, who the heck wants that??

May attention ladies, I may hurt some feelings, but I gotta stay true to self, and to you! Here's my top six style choices that's making you look bigger, not better.

#1. Printed Leggings!

Oh my gosh, if I see another thirty something, or woman larger than size 4 wearing these leggings, I just may become an arsonist!! No seriously, ladies: we are women in business, not college hotties. Did you know the printed legging (made for the runway), was designed to add a little more "meat" to the stick figures in fashion? The prints themselves give the illusion of being wider, and thicker which gives the size 2 girl a little excitement about getting dressed. Not to mention they were designed as fun replacements for stockings and yoga pants for the teenager and collegiate...NOT FOR WOMEN OVER 24 YEARS OLD. Ugh! Please toss every pair, give to your daughter or niece, or simply donate. Get them out of your closet pronto.  

I digress...


#2.  Oversized Sweaters

Again, not made for women over 30. This style is again made for the cute college girl running late for lecture, who has no time for a full ensemble, but refuses to look like she rolled out of bed. Ladies, I understand we have those days when we just want to be comfortable, casual, and not all dolled up everyday. I get it. However, these ovesized sweaters are just that, way over your size. These sweaters may us look bigger, wider, and a bit sloppy. go with this look here. Much more age-appropriate, flattering, and casually chic.  

                                                                                       

  #3. The Wrong Bra     Now, if any of you really know me, you'd know I'm a stickler for "the girls," I don't mess around, honey. I take them for serious. I've been properly and professionally fitted, sized, and cupped to keep my girls feeling and looking amazing. Wearing the wrong bra easily adds ten pounds to your figure because you're masking your gorgeous waistline, and torso with droopy boobs. Here's the difference in wearing the wrong bra, verses the right. There's a clear distinction in her shape just by wearing the right bra. 

If you're in need of  a fabulous Bra/Boob Specialist, please comment below and I'll send you a couple of contacts in your area.  Just Ask! 

Stay tuned for part two of my "Style Choice Series." The final few will make you take a second look at your daily wardrobe choices...I promise!

Until next time.

Stay Classy, Fabulous, and In YOUR Power!! 

Stylishly Yours,

DeAnna

Tweet Me: @DeAnnaDuPree

Find Me on IG: @DeAnnaDuPree

Like Me on FB: SimplyDeAnnaDuPree

  

Fall Trends to Live For: The Style Haus Report

Fall is my absolute favorite season!! I mean seriously, when else does a girl have the opportunity to rock jeans and boots on a daily basis without being criticized? 

I love the warm hues, oversized sweaters, knee high boots, gloves, and oh I can't forget the fabulous newsboy hats and romantic headwear we get a pass on for the season. YES!! Can you tell I love fall fashion?

OK seriously, I've been trend-spotting lately and I've uncovered the hottest trends for this fall season. Surprisingly enough, all are obtainable, and affordable. That's the coolest news for my budgetnistas! 

The first trends I'm primarily excited about are the ladylike skirts, sumptuous coats, and comfy flats.

This fall trend report is full of easy-to-wear pieces you're going to love! Here, fall's best fashion trends straight from either the runway, Rachel Zoe, or my Style Goddess, Kimora Lee Simmons...and how you can style them for work, date night, and everything in between.  

This look will literally take you from day to dinner without any edits! So feminine, and elegant, yet edgy. And the best news? Iron-free ensembles!!! Yes, you're welcome. Stop by Nordstroms, H & M, or DeAnna's Style Haus to shop the hottest wrinkle-free skirts, tops, and dresses for your day-to-day.

All About Pops of Color...
In addition to blue, orange is another hot color for the season. Wait, before you say "not for me," know that there are different shades for every skin tone- from juicy, bold brights, to subdues, muted hues.

I love theses hues because you can style them black or nude shoes and purse, and you're done...BAM, out the door!

WhooHoo Wrap Coats!! The Ultimate Feminine Touch.

I've been waiting all year to rock my Cavalli Wrap Coat! Oh my goodness. Throw on an over sized wrap coat over a multitude of layers, or team it with slim-cut trousers and a thin turtleneck. It's all yummy, and fabulous. Think Olivia Pope.
Oh what I wouldn't give for Olivia's Pope coat wardrobe!! Coats have become Olivia's signature. So stylish. So Grace Kelly.

When black and white feel overdone, try the hue that's a happy medium of both. I saw gray styled from head to toe during Fashion Week (for everyday wear), and it actually wasn't bag. Simply add a little pop of cheeriness color like rich violets, vibrant green and bright yellows. All go beautifully with gray. 

Bold Fashion Statement Bags

There are bags that say something about your style, and then there are pieces that actually deliver the message for you. These are statement bags. This is what every girl should aspire for. The statement bag allows you to make a statement without saying a word. 

Take a look at Kim's statement bag. Your eye is immediately drawn to it right. Inner-thoughts? Oh she's cute, yet casual. Effortless.

"Statement bags are the easiest way to add flair to your look. If you prefer to wear jeans and black sweaters, a bright-colored bag can completely elevate your look." - Kimora Lee, Fabulosity

And finally. The hottest 2014 fall trend is...drum roll please.

The Glamorous Cape...oh so Hollywood!

So refined. Wear it over a dress to add polish to your evening look, or with jeans, a chunky knit, and riding boots for a chic weekend ensemble.

For more style tips, trends, and how-to's be sure to give me a shout to receive a complimentary virtual style makeover. I live for style-on-call! No matter where you are, day or night. 

In Style & Service,

DeAnna

Visit my website: www.styledbydeanna.biz

Tweet me: @DeAnnaDuPree

Don't forget to follow me on Instagram: @ImSimplyDeAnna

Til next time, dolls!