Feel Good Clothing – Expanding What “Flattering” Means To You

By Brian Maynor

 

We all want our clothes to be flattering and most often we think of that as making us look taller or thinner. But what about the clothes that just make us feel good?

Many of us have abandoned something we loved wearing simply because it didn’t fit that narrow definition of flattering, but in doing so we abandoned a piece of ourselves. Before you give up any more fun, quirky, bold or signature pieces, because you don’t think they’re flattering, check out these definitions of flattering that go beyond the expected:

1.    Color. We know some colors complement your complexion more than others, but if your favorite color isn’t one of those should you abandon it? Of course not. If a color makes you happy then it should be integral to your wardrobe. The key is how you integrate it.   There are numerous ways to wear colors that are less than ideal for your complexion like layering them, blending them into prints or just place them in other parts of your outfit away from your face.

2.    Prints & Patterns. Visual interest is one of the best camouflage techniques available, if it’s used correctly. Proportion, rather than a specific print or pattern, will determine if pieces are flattering or just loud. Balancing visual interest to your body size is the best way of keeping one from dominating the other. So instead of avoiding stripes, polka dots or prints all together just play around with their size until you find the ones that are just right for you.

3.    Movement. Clothing that is confining or restrictive is not flattering, no matter how tall and thin it makes you look. That is taking the idea of statuesque way too far. Your outfit should be a natural extension of you, which includes being able to move freely and unencumbered. If you can’t walk, sit or hug someone effortlessly in your outfit you probably shouldn’t wear it.

4.    Imperfectly Perfect. We’ve all tried on outfits that were ‘perfect’, but they just didn’t look right and chances are that’s because they were too perfect. When an outfit is too pristine, we tend to feel lost in it in a Stepford Wives way. Introducing some personal element, even one that doesn’t ‘go’ with your look, will completely change it. Sometimes it takes a little imperfection to make something perfect.

If you only focus on pieces that make you look tall and thin you’re missing out on a host of flattering options. The whole idea behind something being flattering is that it makes us look good because we feel good in it.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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