What to Wear If You Have Broad Shoulders

Understanding your body, knowing what will accentuate its strengths and hide what makes you feel insecure, is an important skill. After all, only by looking really cool do we feel 100% confident and ready for anything.

While there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to get dressed, 5-Minute Crafts tells you in detail which pieces will help you hide your broad shoulders, if that is your goal, and which wardrobe items are unlikely to frame them in a complimentary way.

1. General tips for styling broad shoulders

There are simple, universal rules that can be followed to make your broad shoulders look smaller and draw attention to your assets.

Rule № 1: Emphasize the waist. Any garment that fastens at the waist and widens slightly at the hips will draw the eye away from the width of your shoulders. It may seem obvious, but don’t invest in clothes that focus attention on your shoulders.

Rule № 2: Show your clavicles. Visor necklines, collarless blouses, and other options will shift attention from the shoulders to the collarbone line and chest.

2. Items that go well with broad shoulders.

There are several clothing options to suit those with broad shoulders.

• A V-neck is a great option, as its neckline will direct attention vertically rather than horizontally. This way, you’ll be able to create a more balanced silhouette and draw away attention from the upper body.
• An asymmetrical neckline not only looks chic but will also draw attention away from the broad shoulders, thanks to the visually interesting design.
• A-line dresses are also an essential purchase for those who wish to divert attention away from their shoulders. The flared skirt will add volume while balancing out your figure.

• Long sleeves will help you look your best as they will hide the size of your shoulders and arms.
• Wide straps are your best bet for hiding broad shoulders. Avoid wearing dresses and tops with thin straps, as they will draw attention to your shoulders.

3. Don’t be scared of bright colors and daring patterns.

When it comes to shopping for clothes, we often opt for a bright top and a dark, practical bottom. Wide-shouldered people should do the opposite.

• Choose bright trousers or skirts
• Don’t be afraid of elaborate prints
• Opt for a simpler and darker colored top

This will make your legs look longer, while your back and waist will draw attention and be much more noticeable.

4. Long accessories are a must-have.

When choosing accessories, try to opt for long options. For example, long necklaces and scarves can help elongate your torso, while cross-body bags can help shape your hips.

If you’re going to wrap the scarf around your neck, do so in such a way that it creates a V-shape, which, as we wrote above, will nicely compliment your figure.

5. Items that you should avoid.

There are several types of clothing items that should not be worn if you have broad shoulders. These are the items that will draw attention to the width of your shoulders and make your figure look disproportionate.

• Shoulder pads are probably the most important “no” you should tell yourself. Choose jackets and other clothes without them.
• Instead of strapless and off-the-shoulder necklines, opt for a wide scoop neckline with cap sleeves.

• Ruffle sleeves or puffy sleeves are a bad choice because of the extra fabric, so stick to long sleeves or half sleeves to soften their appearance.
• Never buy items with detailing at the shoulders. Instead, choose options that will balance your body.

Check the video for brilliant clothing hacks you should try