A guide to buying ladies blouses

Until the Victorian era, women wore mostly dresses, gowns and long garments. In the Victorian era, the wardrobe changed to incorporate blouses with long skirts as well as jackets. Blouses became popular, and a staple in women's clothing, The blouse could also be washed separately from the skirt. Even today, the blouse remains popular. When buying a ladies blouse, the question remains: which one looks good with your body shape?

Hourglass figure

When you have an hourglass figure, you have a wide range of blouse styles to choose from. You will look good with tops that have scooped or V-necks, women tops that have belts or tops that wrap. Fabrics can include ones that are clingy, soft and sheer.

Pear-shaped figure

When you have a pear-shaped figure, then blouses that look good are ones that are fitted as well as end above the hips or are 3/4 length. With these blouses, you will help to emphasis your waist rather than bring attention to your wider hips and bottom. Patterned and textured blouses work well as they bring the attention upward. Wider necklines work well for this body type.

Apple figure

When you have an apple figure, then tops that work well are silk blouses, fitted blouses, and ones that flatter your curves. Choose tops that add folds over your stomach to help in hiding it, or blouses with long shirt tails are good choices. Outfits that are monochromatic help you to look longer, or blouses with soft, unobtrusive patterns. Necklines can include high necklines, or thicker straps. Drawing attention to your cleavage will not be as flattering. If you wish to draw attention to your bust, then wearing darker colours than the clothing you wear below your waist will accomplish this.

Boyish figure

When you have a boyish figure, then tops that have pleats, small ruffles, turtlenecks or crew necks, sleeves that are fuller will work for you. Add a belt to add shape at the waist, making it look smaller than it is. Sleeveless tops work well also, as well as halter-type blouses. Shirts that add the impression of more emphasis at the breast, can add curves that you may not have, or emphasis the curves that you do have.