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Identifying the necklines, fabrics, and silhouettes to complement your shape is not always an effortless venture, including (or especially) when you're working with a larger bust. But once you find the styles that flatter and accentuate a larger chest, they're wardrobe game changers. And, they deserved to be supported and celebrated.
You can show more skin than you think. "One common misconception about styling a larger bust is that it needs to be covered," plus-size fashion consultant and former 11 Honoré design director Danielle Williams-Eke said. "I actually find that covering a bust too much actually makes it appear larger."
The shapes and silhouettes you can choose from are numerous: Williams-Eke recommends V-necks, cowl necks, and off-the-shoulder necklines to show off your décolletage. Gess Pugh, a size-inclusive consultant and model, believes that outdated styling rules don't have to be so meticulously followed in 2023—offering suggestions for smocked tops and plunging backs for larger busts. Like Pugh's Instagram profile states, "Beauty cannot be contained."
Ahead, read up on 10 major styling tips for bigger boobs from Pugh and Eke—minus the limited advice of yesteryear.
Embrace the Corset Trend
Corsets are a quick way to add a cool and sexy vibe to your outfit. Pair your corsets with denim jackets in the spring and summer, and blazers in the fall for a bit more modesty, if that’s your thing.
ROSAMOSARIO Dolci Follie Strapless Bustier Top
ROSAMOSARIO Dolci Follie Strapless Bustier Top
Add Volume at the Waist
"Embrace silhouettes that add volume at the natural waist and/or hip," Pugh suggests. "If you carry most of your weight in your bust with a straight waist and hips, but want to achieve an hourglass shape, wearing A-line or halter dresses helps balance things out."
Raey Wrap Linen Halter Dress
Raey Wrap Linen Halter Dress
Accentuate the Décolletage
"Pick a top that makes your décolletage the focus," Pugh says. "A sweetheart or an off-the-shoulder neckline creates a tasteful yet sexy look."
Mara Hoffman Leonara Off-the-Shoulder Dress
Mara Hoffman Leonara Off-the-Shoulder Dress
Invest in the Right Supportive Bra
Pugh says buying and investing in good bras is also a must. "Nothing ruins an outfit more than the wrong undergarments. Take the time to get professionally fitted—it makes a huge difference. Splurge on a plunge bra, an everyday T-shirt bra, and a good strapless option, too."
CUUP The Balconette Mesh Bra
When in Doubt, Go Oversized
Pugh invites you to shop in the men's section or go up a size for a more relaxed look. "When you don’t want your bust to be the focal point of your look, buy your tops a size or two larger than you normally would. This gives you a more relaxed and casual look that adds comfort! If things are too boxy in the waist for your liking, have your tailor take it in, leaving the extra room in the bust, or pair it with a high-waisted pant or skirt to bring more shape."
ALC Bennett Linen Pants
ALC Bennett Linen Pants
Boob Tape and Plunging Necklines
They're a match made in heaven, Pugh says. "Don’t be afraid of bra tape. Long gone are the days of only wearing dresses and tops that require a bra. Embrace the low-back (or plunging neckline) dress, or the crossover top, and use bra tape for a little lift."
Norma Kamali Norma Kamali Cross Back Bias Gown
Norma Kamali Norma Kamali Cross Back Bias Gown
Play with Smocked Details
We're huge fans of smocked details—in dresses, tops, swimsuits, and maxi skirts. Nothing says summer quite like this textural addition, according to Pugh. "For a youthful summery vibe, find a smocked top. They have tons of stretch and can accommodate larger busts."
Hill House Home The Eyelet Cosima Nap Dress
Hill House Home The Eyelet Cosima Nap Dress
Find the Perfect Fitted Button-Down
"When it comes to a button-down blouse, seek out options that don't create gaps in between the buttons," says Pugh. "If you have to, go up a size to make sure the buttons don't pull over your bosom."
TOTEME Signature Striped Organic Poplin Shirt
TOTEME Signature Striped Organic Poplin Shirt
Try a Cowl Neckline
"Cowl necklines are another flattering fit to keep in mind," according to Williams-Eke. "The draping fabric lies elegantly on your bust, no readjusting required."
Theory Cap-Sleeve Crushed Satin Cowl-Neck Top
Theory Cap-Sleeve Crushed Satin Cowl-Neck Top
Try a Silky Fabric
"Silk fabrics are so much more than a soft touch and a noticeable sheen," our expert says. "In tops and in dresses, they drape nicely without adding any bulkiness."
NICHOLAS Nina Gathered Silk-satin Maxi Dress
Cortne Bonilla is a fashion contributor for Bazaar.com as well as a freelance beauty, wellness, culture, and news writer for sites like Sunday Riley, Allure Magazine, Revolt TV and more. When she's not attached to her MacBook, you can find her browsing through Soho, face timing her mom, head-banging to heavy metal, applying layers of clear lip gloss, and oversharing on Twitter.
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