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How to Dress Your Body Type with Monroe & Main + Shopping Spree #Giveaway ($185.00 RV) #DressYourBodyType




This is a Fashionista Event Opportunity, and is hosted by Still Blonde after all these YEARS and Modly Chic.


I love flirty spring and summer outfits, and getting all gussied up. Finding clothing pieces that are just right, however, can sometimes be a bit challenging. Since moving on over into the mommy pool, I have noticed that my body, though the same shape as it was before, has changed- and there are some areas that just aren't going to go back to looking the way they once did. I rely on a few tricks to achieve the looks I love.

One of the best things you can do when planning your outfits, is to go with a clothing line or brand that you trust, and one that works for you (meaning the pieces work with you, not against you). I have found that one of the very best clothing companies for women is Monroe and Main. Monroe and Main offers gorgeous intimates, clothing and accessories for women who fall between sizes 6 - 24, or S-3X. Monroe and Main's styles work beautifully with various shapes and body types, including my own!

Monroe and Main makes it so easy for women to find the best styles to fit their body types, and even offers suggestions as to what types of pieces to wear, and what styles, prints, patterns and cuts to avoid, depending on body type. I used a measuring tape (provided by Monroe and Main) to take my measurements- bust, waist, hips, and inseam. I jotted down my measurements, and then went to the Monroe and Main website to see what my body type/shape matched up to, based on my measurements. Since our bodies change so often, it's a good idea to take your measurements often, as well. My weight goes up and down a lot (not by much, but it does change my bust and hip measurements), so I take my measurements every six weeks or so, and actually measure twice, just to make sure I am getting the same numbers both times.


Tips for finding your correct measurements:
Keep a relaxed stance.
Don't hold your breath or pull the measure tape too tightly.
Keep the measuring tape parallel to the ground when measuring hips, etc.
Measure in your undergarments for the most accurate reading.


 I had a pretty good idea that I would wind up being an 'hourglass' shape, and I was correct. My shoulders are just barely wider than my hips, and I have a small-ish chest, short torso, and slim waist. Using my personal measurements, I found my correct size for clothing from Monroe and Main. As I suspected, I was a size Small. Monroe and Main has some fabulous tips on how to dress for your bodytype. For an Hourglass Figure, it's a good idea to go with a bold color or print that highlights your assets. If you'd rather downplay your curves, you can chose to go with a monochromatic outfit. Monroe and Main also offers some fantastic rules of thumb for keeping your outfits fresh and fun, without going overboard.

I loved seeing my selections in person. It was fabulous to know that I made the right choices for my personal shape and style when I picked these pieces out online.

I had a blast shopping Monroe and Main to put a complete outfit together. I could have gone in so many different directions with styles, layers and accessories, too. I know what works well for my body, though- so I found one key piece that I just fell in love with, and then worked from there to build a fun ensemble. I kept the suggestions for my body type in mind as I shopped- going with bold colors, fun patterns, and tried my best to select a key piece that I could adjust for a personalized fit.

Monroe and Main's Simply Smoothing Brief

The base of every fabulous outfit, is what goes on underneath- the part that no one else ever sees, which makes it every woman's secret weapon: shapewear. Having at least one go-to brief or panty is an absolute must. After I became a mom, I started noticing cellulite/dimples around my cheeks (not so cute, I might add), began to notice a loss of muscle tone in the tush, and found myself so upset by the 'baby pooch', which is excess skin that was stretched out during pregnancy, and just won't go away, no matter how many hours of Pilates I do. It's a reminder of the sacrifices we make as women to bring our beautiful blessings (children) into this world, but it can also be a big source of frustration, because we're left feeling that there's nothing we can do to conceal it, and we're left with what looks like a flabby abdomen, even when it's not.

The Simply Smoothing Brief is a wonderful choice, because it gives you that little bit of control, support, and lift you're looking for, without being too binding or restricting. It's very lightweight, and breathable, and virtually seamless. What I love about this shapewear piece, is that it does smooth out my tummy, and gives me that flat, smooth look that I desire. It also gives my fanny a bit of a lift. I have already found myself loving to wear them with dresses and skirts, and even with certain pair of shorts, because they really help to smooth out the back of the legs.

Stripe Tease Dress

After finding the right baseline for an outfit, it's time to move onto the star of the show- either a one piece item or separates. I love dresses, especially this time of the year, and have been trying to break out of the 'solids zone,' and really play with prints and colors. I found the Stripe Tease Dress, and knew that I didn't need to look any further. If there is one dress that I am going to wear for special occasions this season, it's this dress!

The dress really needs no introduction. The shape of the dress drew me in, immediately. It's a classic style, which is fun and flirty, yet also modest and classy- very ladylike. The dress embodies a sort of mix of elegance, and boho-chic (very fitting for my personal style). I am generally afraid of wearing white, but the mix of the coral color in with the white in this print is divine! As if the style and print weren't enough to make me swoon over this dress, a closer look at the dainty details ices the cake, here.


Beatiful interwoven waist...

The waist...

The waistline on the Stripe Tease Dress is higher, which means the eye is drawn upward. The waist of this dress is made of thin, woven strips of fabric through the front, and carried over to the sides. From the sides, the strips are left unwoven, which is so much fun! The strips can be drawn together, and tied behind the dress, however you'd like to tie them. What I love about this, is that I can pull the strips a bit tighter, if I want to cinch the waist a bit, or leave it a bit loose, if I need too. You can truly achieve a personalized fit with this style.


Check out the gorgeous lace hem on this dress!

The lace hem...

The lace hem at the bottom of the 8-panel skirt of this gorgeous dress is so beautiful. The lace is dainty and chic, and takes this dress to a whole new level. I love that the lace incorporates both the white and coral colors- giving it a sort of modern vintage look! Due to the lace detail, this dress can become very dressy, and worn into the evening, instead of just as a day dress.



The back...

The back of the dress is beautiful! I love that there is a bit of elastic across the back panel, because that gives a bit of room for movement, The strips of fabric from the waist can be tied at the back, and they simply hang down, creating a whimsical fringe in the back.

Accessories...

The Stripe Tease Dress is gorgeous on its own, with a great pair of shoes and simple jewelry, but in the spirit of spring and summer, and really wanting to play with color, I went for some interesting accessory options that are a bit out of my comfort zone (for a change!).


Textured 2-in-1 Handbag (Tote in Mint)



Textured 2-in-1 Handbag (Shoulder Bag in Mint)

I usually start accessorizing by first selecting a handbag. I love handbags, and I love having a bag that is comfotable to carry. I usually opt for totes, because they can hold a lot of stuff (and I usually wind up carrying my own items, plus those of my husband and son). I chose the Textured 2-in-1 Bag from Monroe and Main, to carry with the Stripe Tease Dress. I love this bag for a number of reasons- the shape and color, firstly. This bag is available in two colors, and I went with the mint color, because it worked so well with the coral color in the Stripe Tease Dress. The bag has a texture to it, which is very different from any of my other handbags. I love the look! As a bonus, this bag comes with a second bag! The bags can be used together, or apart. The tote doesn't completely close over the top, so I love having the small zip-closure shoulder bag, as an option. This will definitely be a go-to bag for me, when I am in NJ/NYC with my family later this summer.


Beautiful beadwork on the Beaded Stretch Bracelet

For a little arm candy, I went with a summery bracelet. The Beaded Stretch Bracelet was a really fun choice for me, a sort of bold one, at that. This bracelet features multiple beaded strands of different colored/sized beads. The yellow and the pink really called out to me, because I could see those colors playing so sweetly off of the white and coral in the Stripe Tease Dress. The bracelet also incorporates red, orange, and gold colored beds- which makes this a whimsical, versatile piece that can be worn a number of ways, with many styles- from dresses and skirts to casual tops and capris. I love how it captures a free-spirited sort of look, to add to the chic style of the dress, and the fun handbag.


Scroll Side Sunglasses- tres' chic!

To top off the entire look, I chose the Scroll Side Sunglasses. I can't live without my sunglasses, no matter the season (wouldn't want to). Sunglasses can be the one key accessory that really bumps even the most casual of outfits to a certain level of chicness. I won't wear just any sunglasses, either. I don't have the right shaped face to wear sunglasses that are too large, so it was really love at first sight when I found these shades. The white shades are a big step outside of my comfort zone- I have never worn white shades before, but I felt that they worked so well with the Stripe Tease Dress, that I just couldn't pass them up. The scrolled design on the sides really gave me that extra push to go with these, because it gives them an upscale, desiger look, which is something that I look for in a great pair of sunglasses. The scrollwork also helps bridge the outfit together- working with the dress, being a great contrast from the handbag (white and mint are lovely together), and marrying the gold in the bracelet, for a cohesive look.


I even had some fun with some other items from my closet!

I love how easy it is to find beautiful, flattering clothing pieces and accessories that are just right for me. Monroe and Main offers so many resources to their customers that you can feel positive about your selections. I look and feel fabulous in my beautiful spring pieces from Monroe and Main, and love knowing that these styles will carry me through until fall rolls around.

Want the look? Get it!

Head on over to Monroe and Main to learn How to Dress Your Body Type, and to browse their gorgeous collections of apparel, accessories, and more! Be sure to check out Monroe and Main's How to Dress for Your Body Type Pinterest Board for more great looks, and tips! You can also connect with Monroe and Main through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and G+.



Want the look? Win it!

Thanks to our friends at Monroe and Main, one lucky reader will win a Monroe and Main Measuring Tape, and a Monroe and Main Shopping Spree for one piece of shapewear, and one outfit, valued up to $185.00. Wow! Talk about a fantastic giveaway! The winner will be able to select a piece of shapewear, and then use the remaining balance to purchase an outfit that's just the right style for their body type!

This giveaway is open to US residents, 18 and older. One entrant per household, please. Just use the Rafflecopter entry form below to enter for your chance to win! Please note that this blog is not responsible for prize fulfillment. Contest Ends May 31, 2015 11:59 PM EST.

Special thanks to Monroe and Main for giving me the opportunity to have a personalized experience with selecting the right type of outfit for my body type, and for offering this fantastic giveaway for our readers!

Good luck & stay stylish!



a Rafflecopter giveaway


And that's not all!

Be sure to visit all 25 participating blogs below to check out their gorgeous Monroe and Main picks, and to enter their giveaways, as well! That's right- you have 25 chances to win the Monroe and Main Measuring Tape + Shopping Spree! Follow the links below to visit the other beautiful Monroe and Main Bloggers!


101 comments

  1. I learned I have an hourglass figure and I also learned how to correctly measure myself!! lindsayhess84@yahoo.com

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  2. I commented here http://www.mommysblockparty.co/2012/11/mrs-cubbinsons-stuffing-review-giveaway.html

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  3. I learned that For oval body shapes, the waist measurement is larger than the bust and hip numbers. This is a very common body shape – if you have it, add some definition to your body by wearing structured and belted tops or jackets and dresses that help you emphasize a natural waist. Tops that highlight the thin area just below your bust will add instant definition.

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  4. I took my measurements and I found out that I have an hourglass shape and I how I wear my clothes to flatter that shape is important.

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    1. It really is, AngelWiner- can make such a big difference in the way you look and feel!

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  5. I learned that I should wear more fitted garments to accentuate my shape rather than try to hide it.

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  6. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  7. I learned that I am more of a rectangle shape. I also learned that once you know your shape, it’s easy to understand which areas to highlight and which you might want to play down a bit!

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  8. I learned you should take your measurements every few months.

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  9. I'm a rectangle shape and A-line dresses work best for my body type!

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  10. I learned that it is best to know your body type and shop with that in mind instead of just what you think looks nice on the hanger.

    Gloria

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  11. I learned the correct way to take my measurements and that A-line dresses would suit my body shape.

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  12. I learned how to take my measurements and fit my body type.

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  13. I learned that three measurements determine the five shapes.

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  14. If I win, I would let Amanda choose whatever she likes =)

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  15. Twila

    I learned how to take measurements the right way

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  16. I learned that I'm a triangle shape because I have somewhat narrow shoulders. I always thought I was an hourglass because I'm so busty.

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  17. I learned I am a triangle shape, at least that's the closest I could find !:)

    Thanks

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  18. I had no idea there so many different body types! Also, I the first step in determining body type is to start with your body’s measurements.

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  19. If I were to win, I would select the Glass and Resin Bead Necklace! It is so pretty.

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  20. I learned that I'm an hourglass shape!

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  21. I would get one of their fun dresses!

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  22. I learned how to take proper measurements and that I am hourglass shape.

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  23. I learned that once you know your body type, it’s easy to understand which areas to highlight and which you might want to play down a bit.

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  24. As much as I'd like to be an hourglass, I'm a triangle. I should stick to dark pants/skirts and bright and/or printed tops...to draw the eye upward.

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  25. I learned that I am probably a rectangle body shape. Id have to measure because Im between a rectangle and an oval shape.

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  26. Hourglass body shapes are defined by a waist that’s smaller than both the bust and hips.

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  27. I learned that you should always pair bright and bold colors with a more neutral color. I never remember to do that. Thank you.

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  28. I learned how to properly measure my body and that I need to try some bright colors and prints for my shape.

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  29. I am an oval shape and I can flatter it with belted tops

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  30. I would get lolita top in berry!

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  31. I learned I have hour glass figure.

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  32. I learned that I am an oval. I also learned that I can find clothing for my body frame.

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  33. I have an hourglass frame and they say I can wear print all over! Craziness!

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  34. I learned that I am an oval shape. I had no idea there are so many different body types/shapes!

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  35. I learned that I'm an hourglass shape! I was surprised to hear that!

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  36. I learned how to correctly measure my waistline.
    bituin76 at hotmail dot com

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  37. You should take your measurements and determine body shape to match clothes best for you.

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  38. Looks like I am an hourglass. I had never measured my waist that way before.

    determineddebby at gmail dot com

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  39. I learned that I am rectangular shaped.

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  40. I learned that I am an inverted triangle. I have never even heard of this shape.

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  41. I learned that different patterns look best on different body types.

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  42. I like the Braless Body Suit, Watercolor Dress, Triangle Bead and Mesh Necklace and Earrings to start. :D

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  43. I like the Romantic Poet Top and the Fleur De Fleur Pants.

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  44. I learned that knowing your body’s shape is the perfect foundation for dressing well and choosing clothes that flatter.

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  45. I learned how to identify my own body shape.

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  46. I learned how to correctly identity my body shape and make good clothing choices.

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  47. this is information I will pass along to my wife.

    Roy

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  48. Women with inverted triangle body shapes will have larger bust measurements than their waist and hip numbers, and visually their bodies will appear more narrow at the hips than the shoulders. <<< that's me!

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  49. I learned that I might be a hourglass but not sure because I am 50 pounds overweight. It is hard to find clothes that fits me nevertheless works well with my body shape. But, I like the simplicity that Monroe and Main have done to finding your body shape.

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  50. I learned there are 5 main body types and that I have an hourglass shape.

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  51. I would get the Side Bouquet Dress.

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  52. Entered the Comfortable, Easy, Eco-Friendly Fashion for Spring & Summer from #Sassimi + Ibiza Skirt #Giveaway

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  53. I learned more about dressing my shape, which is hourgl!ass, with shapewear. I rarely think about shapewear but I should!

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  54. Your dress is adorable. I like dresses for the summer so I would probably shop for those. And maybe some sandals like the Upbeat Sandals.

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  55. Apparently I’m a rectangle — how unglamorous sounding! Interesting that I’ve always found empire waisted dresses to be the most flattering on me but they aren’t even mentioned here for rectangles!

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  56. I am a inverted Triangle..well I guess I am an odd duck.

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  57. I learned I'm a rectangle shape (Laura DeLuca)

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  58. I learned that if you have a triangle shape, you should highlight your narrow upper body with colorful or printed blouses that draw the eye upward

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  59. I think I'd get the Front Corset Cincher and the Convertible Diva Dress.

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  60. I learned that by taking proper body measurements and identifying my body type, I can use that information to dress in a way that is more flattering to my body type and also to wear clothes that fit good!

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  61. I'm going to have to actually measure myself to figure out what my shape is. I really thought I knew but none of the pictures really describe me!

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  62. I'm really drawn to the Fire and Ice dress, and I want a cute summery dress this year. I might get that.

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  63. I learned that I am just barely an hourglass, but I feel more like a rectangle. I like to wear belted dresses or elastic waist to create a more defined waistline.

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  64. I learned how to find my body type, which is a triangle.

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  65. This dress is so summery and fun! It looks great on you :)

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  66. I love the Lunch with the Girls and Me Jane dresses. The black blocking on the sides would definitely create the illusion of a waist!

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  67. That Stripe Tease Dress is adorbs! You made the right decision, for sure! I learned that, while I am still an hourglass shape, the ratio between my waist and hips is ever lessening. One of these days, I will be a rectangle! But when that happens, I will be happy because I’ll know how to dress, thanks to guides like the one at Monroe and Main!

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  68. I shared on facebook here
    https://www.facebook.com/rochelle.haynes.7/posts/845956705460300

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  69. I learned how to figure out my shape - which is hourglass.

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  70. I learned that I’m a hourglass shape and should wear bold colors and prints to accentuate my assets.

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  71. I learned that according to their infographic my body type is a triangle.

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  72. Hourglass body shapes are defined by a waist that’s smaller than both the bust and hips. You have an hourglass body shape if your bust and hips are visually wider and similar in measurements, and if your waist measurement is smaller than the other two.

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  73. I learned I'm an hourglass shape.

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  74. I learned that I'm a rectangle shape and I should wear belted A Line dresses to emphasize my waist!

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  75. I'd love to get the Fire and Ice dress and the Bold and Beautiful silver tone cuff bracelet. I'd also choose some shapewear!

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  76. I learned that you have to consider the color or print of the piece of clothing as well as the cut of it when you are trying to choose pieces that will best flatter your body type.

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  77. I would get the Maxi Mix Fabric Dress and Knot Your Mother dress.

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  78. I took my measurements and learned that I am hourglass figure. I should wear bold colors or prints that highlight my assets.

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  79. For my shapewear I'd love to get the Fanny Lift brief to give my rectangle m, boyish figure some extra shape.

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  80. I learned how to figure out my body type.I am happy to know that there are more flattering ways to dress every body type.

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  81. I learned that I have a hour glass shape.

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  82. I learned that I'm an hourglass when I thought I was a pear! Thanks!

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  83. Jerry

    Interesting what goes into choosing the right clothing

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  84. "It’s a good idea to take your measurements every few months anyway – our bodies are always changing". Sad but true.

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  85. I learned that I am an oval out of the 5 body shapes available, and clothing that is good for me is something that gives me the definition of a natural waistline.

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  86. The Angelic Jumpsuit would be a really fun choice for me, it's out if my comfort zone but I've always wanted to try one!

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  87. I learned that I am an oval and should wear structured or belted jackets and tops.

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  88. I pinned this
    https://www.pinterest.com/rochelle15/my-pinned-items/

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  89. I entered this giveaway
    http://www.mommysblockparty.co/2015/05/spring-spotlight-sponsor-avon-with.html

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  90. Nicole Carter (Weasley)May 31, 2015 at 11:59 AM

    I learned I'm a rectangle type, good to know!

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  91. Nicole Carter (Weasley)May 31, 2015 at 12:00 PM

    I'm not sure about the rest but I love the Lacey Racin Duster so I might get that!

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  92. I learned that there are 5 basic body shapes and most people tend to measure themselves wrong.

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  93. I learned that I am an Oval ,and I have been wearing the wrong clothes.thanks for sharing.

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  94. amy guillaume lindermanMay 31, 2015 at 9:04 PM

    a bold or graphic pattern can help create shape

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  95. Your shapewear shouldn’t be restrictive! Make sure you can breathe and move around easily, even in corsets and other strong-control shapewear styles.

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  96. I learned I was an hourglass and can where monochromatic colors or prints all over.

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  97. Love your blog. Your style certainly inspires me. 

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