How to dress Narrow shoulders
and look absolutely fabulous!

So you've got narrow shoulders? Lucky you! Honestly, narrow shoulders give you a naturally graceful, elegant silhouette that many women would love to have.

That said, if you'd love to add a little more presence and balance to your upper body, there are some really fun and easy styling tricks that make all the difference. And the best part? You probably already own some of the pieces that work brilliantly.

So let's dive in!

Understand your beautiful shape

Narrow shoulders simply mean that your shoulder line is slightly narrower than your hips which is incredibly 'normal'. It often goes hand in hand with the very feminine and curvy pear shape but, honestly, it can show up with any figure.

The goal here isn't to 'fix' anything - it's to play with proportion so that your outfits feel balanced and you feel like a million dollars every time you get dressed.

Problems caused by Narrow Shoulders

• The majority of tops will drown you!

• Clothes will hang and cling to the bust rather than from the shoulder line

• Narrow shoulders make your midriff and bottom half look wider

• Bra straps will slip and often show at the neckline

• Sloping shoulders make a woman look 'droopy' and frumpy, and it's ageing

• A petite woman with narrow shoulders will look shorter still - even 'dumpy'

• Excess fabric will 'bag' around the shoulder line looking unkempt

• Raglan sleeves will make sloping shoulders look worse

Tops and Necklines that work like Magic!

This is where the fun starts! The right neckline can instantly broaden your shoulder line and frame your face beautifully.

Boat necks and wide scoop necks are your absolute best friends. They draw the eye horizontally across your shoulders and create a wider visual line. A classic Breton stripe top with a boat neck? Magical!

Off-the-shoulder and cold-shoulder styles can be gorgeous too. They expose just enough skin to extend the visual line of your shoulders without trying too hard.

Square necklines add lovely structure and width - and they're incredibly flattering on a mature neckline.

Avoid: Halter tops that tie behind the neck can make shoulders appear even narrower. 

Details that add visual width

Little details make a big impact. Look for:

• Epaulettes or button details at the shoulder

• Puffed or gathered sleeves - even a slight puff adds beautiful dimension

• Horizontal stripes or patterns across the upper body

• Embellished or embroidered necklines that draw attention outward

• Layered looks - an open jacket or cardigan over a contrasting colour top creates wonderful horizontal interest

Your Secret Weapon? Structured Shoulders...

The main styling trick that's been around forever because it simply works is applying a little structure at the shoulder.

Blazers and jackets with defined shoulders instantly add width and polish. You don't need exaggerated power shoulders from the '80s - just a clean, slightly padded shoulder line works wonders. A beautifully tailored blazer over a simple top is one of the chicest looks at any age.

Shoulder pads - yes, really - many of you will already know that this is my personal secret weapon! They take the eye up away from your middle and can, instantly, make you look slimmer and younger. They don't have to be large but once you realize what a difference they make to your overall silhouette you won't be without them.

And now they're back in a subtle modern way. Many contemporary jackets and coats come with light padding built in. If you find a top or dress you love that feels a bit soft at the shoulder, a slim set of removable shoulder pads is an easy fix.

Finding your favorite is trial and error but as an inexpensive remedy to narrow shoulders I guarantee you'll be a convert. Keep a set in both black and white and a soft foam pair for knitwear. 

The real secret is understanding balance!

The real secret to dressing narrow shoulders isn't about following rigid rules, it's about understanding what creates balance. Once you know how to dress for your shape, getting dressed becomes so much easier and more enjoyable.

A statement necklace that sits wide across your collarbone works like a charm; a scarf draped loosely across your shoulders or tied in a wide knot adds both texture and width; and bold earrings especially wider styles like hoops or chandaliers draw the eye outward towards your shoulders.  

Whatever broadens the visual line adds personality to even the simplest outfit.

• Good posture is vital, stand tall and proud with shoulders back

• Widen the shoulder line to draw the eye up the top of the body

• Shoulder emphasis takes the eye away from midriff and hips. 

• Choose a neckline that will widen the look of the shoulders

• Set in sleeves and structured tops emphasize shoulder line

• Design detail on the shoulders will draw the eye

• Wear shoulders pads to give clothes the desired shape - they don't have to be 'Dynasty' size!
  

Everyone's favorite cook Mary Berry knows what suits her!