by Kimberley Heit

Created on: August 04, 2009

Your clothing choices are not the only element that can have a dramatic influence on your overall appearance. Accessories can play a large role in helping to create a proportional look. If you are a pear shaped woman, the right accessories can be used to draw attention to your upper half, whilst minimizing the appearance of your lower half.

Top accessories for a pear shaped woman:

Jewelry

Accessories that highlight your upper body are extremely flattering on a pear shaped figure. Try hoop earrings, or a pair of show stopper dangly earrings. A statement necklace looks equally stunning, or consider layering long dangly necklaces. Brooches can help create more interest at chest level, but avoid wearing chunky bangles or rings because these may inevitability draw attention to your bottom, hips and thighs. When your arms are resting beside your body your hands sit in this region.

Shoes

Make sure you choose footwear that is leg lengthening. Pear shaped women benefit from extending the line of their legs because it helps them look slimmer on the lower half. Stick to shoes that match your hemline, or nude colored shoes, because these will not interfere with your leg line. Avoid ankle straps and multiple straps across the feet, because these can cut the legs in two visually. Look for styles like sling backs, low cut peep toes, pointy toes, or thong style straps. Try to wear shoes with at least a small heel.

Handbags

Look for handbags that end at or above waist height. If you choose a handbag that hangs lower down, you will draw attention to your fuller lower half. Hobo and barrel style handbags that come to mid waist height work well. Clutch bags that tuck under your arm look great and Chanel quilted style bags with a short chain strap are a fashionable look.

Scarves

Look for scarves that end at chest, or waist level, rather then lower on your body. This is because you want to highlight and help bulk up the areas that are your tiny points. Feel free to experiment with chunky and textured styles that add interest to your smaller regions. Horizontal striped scarves can work well. If you'd like to wear a long scarf make sure the ends extend well past your bottom region.

Other accessories

Anything that highlights your bust and waist is flattering if you are a pair shaped woman. In winter consider wearing a fur bolero or short stole to add a touch of glamour. During summer tuck a pair of oversized sunglasses down the front of your top. A padded or push up bra can be one of your best accessories all year round, because it will help balance your upper and lower body visually. Belts can be used to highlight and define your tiny waist. Try to look for wider high waisted belts, or sash tie belts, rather then skinny belts, because skinny belts can highlight too much of a difference between your waist and bottom region.

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