Choosing the right shorts or Capri's style for your body is a balancing act for your curves - no matter where you want to "Play up or Play Down" with your curvy figure. Columnist and Curvy Style Expert Michele Weston has some advice on picking the most flattering lengths. And if you want to check out the latest looks in shorts and Capri's, Michele says check out the new "Web Mall" experience that's happening online from OneStopPlus.com and browse through Avenue.com . You can also visit any of the seven Avenue stores in Chicago; for locations call 1-888-AVENUE -1. All for women size 12W and up!
Look 1
Rethink shorts of all lengths for the season. Not just for the beach anymore, shorts for spring are sleek enough to pair with a jacket for the "new suit."
Pairing a bold red printed cotton jacket (Style #: 2324-35631-1190 Price $44.90 from J.G.Hook at OneStopPlus.com) with a pair of 'chalk-stripe' Bermuda shorts will result in a polished look for the summer. Bold patterns on a darker ground add interest to an otherwise basic look. The best tops to layer under your jacket are more romantic, or soft fabric tunic tops and tops that end at the hip (JLStudio at OneStopplus.com Style# 2342-53561-1190 Price $29.90)
Look 2
DON'T squeeze into a pair of too-tight shorts. Try a pair of classic, sleek Capri pant with a slimmer leg - or if you have a fuller leg or are petite in stature. All of us should consider wearing a heeled sandal (Like these "Danielle" style pewter mother of pearl detail heeled sandals in wider widths Price $39.95) or a sling-back to balance your body and lengthen your entire silhouette, ladies! You should aim for a casual summer pair from Avenue stores. This is a great look for a daytime weekday jaunt as well - This is a cropped Capri pant (Style # 1020918 Twill version for $29.95) and being offered in an array of WIDTH'S - this style was created for a well-proportioned leg or if you have a fuller thigh you should also consider wide leg crop's and gauchos. There's lots of fabrics too - from denim, khaki's to cottons or linen. Find them at Avenue.com or 1-888-Avenue-1.
Look 3
Try a pair of new khaki cuffed or wider leg shorts (Tab Hem Chino Shorts Style#: $29.95 at Avenue) and layer with a printed sheer patterned tunic top from Avenue (Style # 1304442A on sale for $19.99) underneath a bright camisole for a new take on the "summer safari look". Layer some enamel bangles with a trendy metallic gold "Roman" gladiator sandal (Style #: 2136-63345-1302 Price $49.99 fromOneStopPlus.com ) and you can consider yourself very Trend-worthy and right in style this season.
TIP: Whether skinny, medium width or wide - Leather, fabric or metal style's in a belt add shape and contour to your waist and hips. Choose a gold metallic wider-style belt worn loose and down on the hip over a tunic top. It's flattering, sexy, and fun!
Look 4
Even in the longer length Bermuda shorts or Capri's in the darker denim wash have a "streamlining" effect (from Mainstreet Blues at OneStopPlus.com Style# 0031-40776-1043 Price $21.99) . Also, a higher rise in the rear keeps your backside covered and contours your voluptuous curves without gaping or adding bulges or the dreaded "Muffin Top." Remember some stretch in denim is a godsend for those looking for a really nice fitting pant, short or trouser.
TIP: Pair the shorts with a trendy Mexican inspired red cotton peasant top (from OneStopPlus.com Style# 0030-51802-1043 Price $29.99) with beautifully colorful embroidery. Throw on some turquoise beads and a belt and you're truly ethnically inspired this summer "straight off the runways" that works for our curves too!
