To determine if you are an lean column body shape, look at yourself in the mirror in your underwear. Stand with your legs together and your arms a bit away from your sides. Examine the area from under your arms, past your bust and ribcage, over your waist and hips to the fullest part of your thighs.

Then compare yourself to the image and review the questions and characteristics below. We suggest you look at all the body shapes to find your closest match.

THE BODY SHAPES AND THEIR CLOTHING LINES

Every body shape has its own characteristics and silhouette, which needs to be addressed when choosing your clothes. The aim of choosing the right clothes is to balance your silhouette. You may not be able to follow all the fashion tends that are out there, but nowadays there are so many trends in fashion that there is something available for every body shape. So, don’t get sidetracked by falling in love with a style and look that doesn’t match your body shape:

NECKLINE FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Very flexible in your neckline; great choices are ruffles, cowl, necktie, collars, turtle neck, scoop neck- they will give you roundness and put the focus on the centre of your body.

SLEEVES FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Any form that will give volume to your arms e.g. batman, dropped sleeve line, batman like sleeves, flared, cuffed, ¾ length, loose short sleeves.

TOPS & SHIRTS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Tops that add volume, curves and shorten your top half are best e.g. empire line, yoke line, layering, wrap tops, push up bras, breast pockets, padded tops. Details and patterns such as horizontal lines; dotty or floral are great as are scarves and shawls.

JACKETS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Waisted jackets or belted jackets with details such as pockets; shoulder details; wide lapels; vent; single or double breasted. Shoulder pads will give extra width and the illusion of a waist.

COATS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Martingale shape, trench coats, single or double breasted with wide lapels, breast and waist pockets. Belted versions are good for giving you a shaped waist and curves.

DRESSES FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Princess line with curved darts and details, wrap, empire line.

SKIRTS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

The slimmer you are the shorter you can go in your skirt (but keep in mind what is the most appropriate – both for your age and the occasion). Good shapes are a slight A-line, pencil skirt, flip, bias or wrap.

TROUSERS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Choose from shaped, pleated and pocketed, narrowing or tapered leg line, culottes, capris and shorts. Details such as turn-ups, washes, embellishments, side pockets are ways to add volume and curves.

JEANS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Choose skinny or bootcut leg lines. Avoid straight or wide leg because they will overpower your frame.

SHOES FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Wear kitten or medium heels, ankle straps and boots, ballerinas, Ugg boots, cowboy boots or any other boot with calf details such as straps, buckles. Opt for a rounded toe in your footwear.

BAGS FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Choose round shaped bags with soft edges; clutch bags of petite to medium size.

SWIMWEAR & BEACHWEAR FOR LEAN COLUMN BODY SHAPE

Padded styles are perfect. Use patterned two-pieces to emphasize your bust and hips. Vertical chevron lines on a one-piece will give the illusion of shape.