by Matthew John Philips > University of Maryland, College Park

Women

THIN
Being thin makes it difficult to accentuate the more feminine parts of your body. For the illusion of a larger posterior, embellished pockets with flaps on jeans literally make things stand out. Look for plunging necklines (deep Vs and scoops) to bring the focus of your body up. Don’t be afraid to experiment with volume—thin girls can experiment with fashion’s most outrageous trends like bubble skirts and trapeze dresses and get away with it.

Curves
Women who have more curves generally look best in very structured outfits. Look for a visual waistline—clothing tailored to cinch at the waist, or with a horizontal band going across the smallest section of your torso. Beware of clothing that is too tight because you will look bigger. And fabric that drapes without showing a waistline will look like you are hiding your body in your clothes, rather than showing it off.

Men

THIN
Accept that you have one of the hardest bodies to dress. Find stores, like American Eagle and Urban Outfitters, that carry extra-small clothing. Even athletic stores like Puma and Nike are now addressing your body. And stay away from clothing that doesn’t touch your skin, meaning it is too baggy or the wrong size—this will either make you look thinner or misshapen.

LARGE or MUSCULAR
The worst thing larger men tend to do is wear baggy clothing because nothing else fits right. Most national brands, like the Gap, now offer big or tall sizes for their most fashionable lines. Take advantage of this; their clothes are cut specifically to flatter your body type. Also, tops with an “athletic fit” work best because they’re designed to visually accentuate the most fit part of your body, often just above the waist.

Short or Tall

SHORT
For men and women, the word is the same: consider where your clothes visually start and end. Bermuda or longer shorts will only make you appear shorter because of where they end—usually under the knee. Raising the hemline above the knee is a deceptive way of giving the illusion of height. Also, make sure that your waistline is always a couple fingers down from your bellybutton to keep the top and bottom in balance.

TALL
Always consider the balance between your torso and legs. High-waisted pants and a tucked-in shirt make tall men and women look awkwardly taller. Start with straight-leg pants and jeans because they don’t add extra width. Also, don’t settle for a top that is too short and reveals your stomach. Flaunting your stomach is not flattering, no matter how flat it may be.