Form & Fashion I: Ode to the Big-Hipped

I’m introducing a new Friday feature: Form & Fashion.  Each Friday, tune in for my (semi-uninformed) perspective on fashion, style, products and more.

In this, my inaugural edition, I’d like give a shout out to my sisters in curves.  It’s summer and – speaking for myself – I’d like to stay as cool as can be in the sweltering swampland known as the greater DC area – yet still look as fresh as possible, sartorially speaking.  Is this a pipe dream?  For me, with my extremely low tolerance for heat and sweat glands the size of drain spouts, the answer is a resounding yes.  But in the spirit of hope for the rest of my girls, I offer my top three suggestions:

• Cute casual dresses, like this one I recently picked up from The Limited.  The picture doesn’t quite do it justice but the halter draws attention to lovely shoulders and pretty decolletage while the a-line skirt provides some swingy sass (without being ginormous).  Love the cobalty blue option too.  Just as I once swore I would never, ever wear capris, I’ve also had to walk back from a previous hardline stance against the maxi dress.  With the right detail, a maxi dress can be all things to all women.  It’s a comfortable option to throw on for day but with the right color, shoes and accessories, it can transition to a more glammed-up evening out.  Imagine this with great gold heels, for instance.
• Nothing says summer like linen.  Semi-fitted linen trousers in a light color and a fitted top with a statement necklace – bam!  You’re ready to check out the Phillips Collection, grab brunch with friends, or smooch your boy during a picnic lunch.  (Of course, ten minutes after you put them on, they’ll be as wrinkled as a pug’s mug but, hey, there are always tradeoffs).
• Finally, I think the long short is critical for the hourglassed among us.  Crisp white shorts and a bright tank top with fun sandals and big shades feel classic to me. 

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