One big fashion mistake that many of us make is not choosing the right clothing to accentuate our shape, no matter what size we are. I know that I have fallen prey to this faux pas many times when I try to wear baggy clothes to hide a waistline I am not in love with. Getting my mindset away from “hiding” my figure and into choosing pieces of clothing that will flatter me hasn’t been easy, but if you don’t want to end up a fashion victim on What Not To Wear, it’s best to learn how to dress for your shape.

There’s more to shape than your typical “Apple” and “Pear” and what you chose in terms of cuts and patterns can either minimize the positive (or negative) or put the focus on a part of your body that is less than flattering. The various shapes range from petite, tall, triangle (hip heavy), top heavy (wedge), curvy/hourglass, or rectangular. What can complicate things even more is when you are petite in height or tall in addition to another shape, thus having to take many tips into account when choosing the correct pieces of clothing for you. It can get confusing and frustrating to say the least.

A great site I have come across is MyShape.com, which breaks down shapes into M, Y, S, H, A, P and E. Based on the measurements you enter into their survey, the system will accurately tell you which shape you are. You then set up a profile to also determine the type of style you prefer and MyShape.com can then make style recommendations that will flatter your figure. There is even an area where you can determine your color palette so that you know in addition to various cuts, which colors will also be flattering to your look. Using a site like MyShape simplifies shopping for the right look, fit, style and accessories so that you can emphasize the positive aspects to your shape.

Once my son is born, this is a program I am excited to try out. There is nothing worse than trying to shop for the right clothes, only to come out of the dressing room disappointed that an outfit didn’t fit right. MyShape.com looks to alleviate that anxiety and disappointment and make shopping fun again and looking like you have your own wardrobe stylist to boot!