Trying to keep up with an endless stream of fast-fashion trends can be exhausting. Fast fashion can seem extremely appealing because often times these retailers are the most affordable on the market.
However, this usually means that you’re spending money on cheaper pieces that will truly only last as long as the trend. Fast fashion is also known for an abundance of body-con dresses and crop tops, which not everyone feels comfortable wearing.
Instead, try investing in more basic pieces tailored to your style that will help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. These timeless styles are more suited for body types across the board, regardless of your size or shape. These four styles are staples that will last for years in your closet, no matter what is trendy or no matter how your personal style might evolve.
1. Shift Dress
The shift dress is a great place to start when you are building an outfit, no matter your body type or personal style. The loose-fitting shape of this piece allows you to hide your curves or accentuate them by cinching the dress with a belt.
I recommend having at least one shift dress in basic black or your favorite solid color because you can always accessorize with different shoes, jewelry, or bags to spice up the look. The shift style also comes in a variety of lengths, from short t-shirt dresses to midi- and maxi-sheaths. Choose the hem and sleeve length that you feel most comfortable wearing.
2. Denim + T-Shirt
Every girl needs the perfect pair of denim jeans and a well-fitting t-shirt. This classic combo can be dressed up or dressed down and customized to your personal preferences, whether you are a cropped jeans and band tee kind of gal or a skinny jeans and white tee kind of woman. You probably already know which styles of jeans you are most comfortable in, which styles you find the most flattering for your body type, and which brands you tend to gravitate toward. But if you haven’t found your perfect fit yet, experiment with a few different looks and find the right formula for you.
These days, vanity sizing can make trying out new jeans a tricky experience. If you need some guidance, thredUP’s new report on vanity sizing has a chart to help you find jeans brands that are similar to ones you already love.
3. Empire Waist
The empire waist dress is also flattering on most body types. Tighter fitting around the bust, then flowing out from there, this style is popular across the board. They flow freely over your body and help you hide any insecurities and accentuate your bust. If you’re in the market for a new cocktail dress or formal piece, try an empire waist style. They’re an easy way to branch out from your typical style and aren’t so trendy that they’ll be outdated by next season.
4. Kimonos or Long-line Blazers
Layering is a great tactic for adding texture and interest to your look. Like the previously mentioned styles, a kimono can be great, whether you are trying to hide or call attention to your curves. Throwing on a long kimono or blazer on top of a slip dress adds dimension and gives the look a more conservative feel, covering your shoulders and draping loosely across the body. Choose a shorter style if you want to nip in your waist and show off your curves. This can also be a more fun, funky piece that you can add to any outfit to dress it up or down or add prints and color.
When it comes to getting dressed, you want to be the most comfortable you can be—and that doesn’t just mean physical comfort, necessarily, but comfort in your own skin. Sticking to these styles and accessorizing them can be key to feeling like your best self every day when you walk out of the house.
Special contributor Rebecca Piersol provides tips on how to look your best no matter your body type. Rebecca writes for her blog, The Crystal Press, and for thredUP, an online and offline consignment store where you can find like-new women’s clothing, including a great selection of women’s dresses.
