Your Style Problems, Solved: How Can I Make My Broad Shoulders Look Smaller?

Publish date: 2024-05-03

"I love reading Glamour and I always get excited when there is the features on what dress or outfit works well with what body type," reader Deirdre writes. "However it always lets me down when my body type doesn't seem to fit any of them. Could you please have something for girls with wide shoulders?"

Deirdre, my dear, I've got good news and good news: 1.) Women like Rihanna, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Molly Sims are spending an awful lot of money right now on fancy frocks that make them look like they've got your shoulders. Your body type served as muse to Balenciaga's Nicolas Ghesquiere for fall. Big shoulders are big news. 2.) If you're still feeling self-conscious about your broadness, I've got loads of simple solutions that will make you look and feel great.

Here's my personal prescription of Dos and Don'ts for any of you wide-shouldered gals.

Don't wear shoulder pads (duh).

Don't choose very fitted blazers and jackets that only add to the definition of your shoulders.

Don't cinch the waist of your dresses and skirts--it'll draw attention to the inverted triangle shape you're trying to avoid.

Don't wear spaghetti straps. If you want to wear a tank top, choose one with wider straps.

Do wear scoop neck and V-neck tops that show some skin and break up the expanse of your chest area.

Do wear wide-leg pants, which balance out your broadness up top.

Do choose full skirts, which also help give the appearance of a more even proportion.

Do try out a top or dress with raglan sleeves--they'll help soften any sharp edges in your silhouette.

Do look for jackets and blazers that are a little longer and hit at the hip instead of the waist.

I've done a little shopping for you and come up with some pieces I think will totally flatter your figure:

I hope that helps! Are any of you broad-shouldered too? What tips and tricks have you picked up along the way to help make getting dressed easier? Did you learn anything new here? Share!

And don't forget...I'm here to solve your style problems! If you've got a pressing fashion question, leave it here or upload it to the STF contact form and we'll have you looking chic in no time.

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