The A-line fashion style is one of the most popular silhouettes used in fashion today, and it’s easy to see why this style has managed to stay in fashion since the 1800s (when it was first used in ladies’ clothing). With A-line styles creating a beautifully feminine silhouette that can suit any figure, it’s no wonder that it’s been so popular for such a long time.
But what exactly makes up an A-line silhouette? How does this style differ from other silhouettes? And how can you utilize A-line fashion to create your beautiful looks?
What Is A-Line Fashion
The A-line silhouette is sometimes called an hourglass silhouette because it gives you curves even if you don’t have them. It’s like magic! The A-line shape is particularly flattering on pear-shaped women and those with less-than-ideal ratios between their hips and waist.
This makes it ideal for fuller-figured women and smaller framed/petite body types who want to appear curvier in clothing.
How Do I Wear An A-Line: How to Best Style Them
Dressing an A-line body isn’t difficult, but it does require you to pay attention to your body type and silhouette. The key is balance- nothing should hang too long or sit too high on your figure.
And while there are specific fit tips that will help elongate your look, wearing your favorite pieces with a style that flatters your shape is just as important. For example, how do I style my flare skirt/pants? How do I wear it with a tucked-in top?
Why Is This Shape So Popular?
A-line skirts and dresses are popular in a world where form-fitting styles are trendy, partly because they don’t hug curves and instead lay over them. The other reason for their popularity is their versatility.
You can dress an A-line skirt up with heels and jewelry or down with sandals and a cotton blouse. You can wear something that covers your backside or show off some skin with dresses.
What Materials Work Best For An A-line Dress?
The key to making an A-line dress fit properly is finding a fabric that drapes well. For example, if you’re choosing a jersey, you’ll need something like an interlock knit that has some stretch. Without adequate stretch, you’ll have excess material at your waist and hips.
You also need good movement across your shoulders and bust to make sure it hangs properly.
Are There Any Other Design Considerations For This Shape?
One notable characteristic of an A-line silhouette is that it can be an excellent shape for those with hourglass figures (that means you have a defined waist).
You may not have much of a defined waist naturally, but if you’re wearing an empire-waist dress or top, it will accentuate your natural shape.
What About Accessories?
When you go into a store or browse a website that sells clothing, one of your first considerations should be what accessories (if any) will match or accentuate your outfit. Accessories are small extras that allow you to change up an outfit without buying new clothes or making drastic changes.
You can get more mileage out of an old shirt with a cool hat than a statement necklace. And if you’re going to be buying pieces for specific outfits, it might as well make sense. If there’s ever been a time when accessorizing is essential- it’s now.
