Style Note: Proportion Play
When it comes to putting together the most flattering outfit possible, there are two main things I keep in mind. The first is dressing for my body type, and the second is proportion. While proportion is often overlooked, its importance is not to be underestimated. Think of an outfit as a balancing act–your clothes may fit right, but if you're not mindful of proportions, your ensemble will be off the mark.
Today I'll be sharing my three key rules of thumb for playing with proportions. Keep these styling tips in mind the next time you get dressed, and you'll be well on your way to fashion equilibrium...
1. Balance volume with slim cuts. If you're wearing a more voluminous blouse or a slouchy cardigan, pair it with something fitted below. Or if you're wearing a swingy skirt or wide-legged trousers, pair it with a more tailored top. Remember: Nobody looks good drowning in fabric, but head-to-toe-tightness isn't usually a good look either.
2. Pair short with long and long with short. A longer jacket, coat, tunic, or boyfriend blazer looks best when paired with a shorter hem below. Wear it with a maxi and you risk looking frumpy. The more flattering choice is a shorter top when working with a floor-grazing bottom. 
3. Create an instant hourglass. A cinched waist is the easiest way to create curves and add some instant shape to your silhouette. It's also the only flattering way to pull off volume on the top and bottom of your ensemble. Plus, it's right on trend with designers like Marc by Marc Jacobs, Rag & Bone, and Rodarte. All of which showcased wide belts and nipped waists in their Fall 2012 collections. So when in doubt, belt it ladies.
Are you ready to play with proportion? Upload photos of your perfectly balanced outfits to your profile, leave the image link below, and you might just end up my next Chic of the Week.
XO Lauren
P.S. Be sure to follow Team LC on Instagram at laurenconrad_dot_com!
Photo Credits: Atlantic-Pacific, Cupcakes and Cashmere, Girls Off Fifth
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57 comments
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i absolutely love the black dress with the white peter pan collar! any idea where its from?? -
I love the proportion play I always love to wear chunky sweaters with skinny
http://pinkgoeswitheverything.wordpress.com/2012/12/08/style-saturday-mom-sweaters/
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/3284696 -
Loving the style advice here! I think proportion is really significant when you put on an outfit. I will use these tips now when I plan my next outfit! :) -
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I love all these ideas!
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2608520
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2602870
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2583109
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2608527
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2608518
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2610429
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/2608525 -
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Great tips Lauren! I'm glad I follow the rules :)
In my outfit here http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/3155399
I went with a body con skirt, but kept the top covered up to balance it up.
More ideas on a budget here:
https://www.facebook.com/ShoppingDiet -
I try to stick to these rules too when I'm putting together an outfit, great tips :)
http://mstyleblogspot.blogspot.com/ -
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I am willing to try it Lauren!
Have a nice day :)
xo Lily
http://alltimeclas-chic.blogspot.gr/ -
These rules are absolute musts!
For some Monday inspiration, click below
http://thebuscas.com/2012/11/19/monday-inspiration-9/ -
Amazing tips and outfits! I definitely try to take this into consideration when picking out pieces for fall!
Here is my take on your advice:
http://laurenconrad.com/user/photo/3154080 -
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Really like this post, more women should know these rules ;)
http://tanjaslookbook.blogspot.com/ -
So true, and important! Love the photos.
xo Dina
<a href="http://www.sweetestsomethings.com">Sweetest Somethings </a> -
So true! I love how easy tips like this can make the biggest difference in a look.
xoxo
Emily
www.emilyannestyle.com -
Great tips!! Love these proportions, they are so girly :)
~Pau
<a href="http://www.lilbitsofchic.com"> See my latest outfit! here: www.lilbitsofchic.com </a> -
Cute post! I'd love to see how women keep proportions in mind during the winter months.
-Kelby
http://peachypains.com -
Love all of this outfits!xoxo
Eider
http://theeworld.blogspot.com.es/2012/11/biker-coat.html -
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Thanks for the great tips! The first photo looks like my everyday uniform :)
Check out my new post http://mc2squared.blogspot.com
xx-MC -
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