Alex Perry On How To Wear Volume

10th OF October 2011

By Alex Perry
www.alexperry.com.au

On the concept of “more is more” I am right at home. As the designer whom probably cuts more meterage of fabric than any other in Australia, I wholeheartedly endorse outfits generously cut with yards of soft flowing silk.

And the good news is - anyone can wear volume! A voluminous outfit has many merits, mainly involving concealing a multitude of figure flaws ... heavy thighs, wide hips, saddlebags, pear shaped or saggy tushes, cellulite, knobbly knees, wobbly arms and the general results of cupcake over-indulgence.

A loose fluttery summer frock is also the ultimate in luxurious comfort. Yes, I said it – COMFORTABLE!

But just how do you turn up the volume this summer without drowning amidst a sea of fabric?

Follow my tips below to channel glamorous 70’s jet set “It Girl” Marissa Berenson languishing in Marrakech, as opposed to a Burka-clad bulky Michelin man that rolled into a Kibbutz.

1. Consider your height. The key to successfully working this look is proportion. Basically, the taller you are, the more volume you can wear. For those of you that are more vertically challenged, scale down the width of hemlines so you don’t look like a fabric bazaar exploded all over you.

2. WEAR A HEEL. And I have never meant this more than I do now. There is an entire realm of comfy wedges, platforms, espadrilles and sky-high heels to choose from this season. No excuses. Strap a pair on, amp up your height by four inches, and immediately increase your volume-wearing ability.

3. The right volume for your body shape. Literally ANY body type can wear volume. You just need to know your body and choose the appropriate kind of volume to showcase your assets. If you have great legs – go for a micro mini kaftan. If you don’t like your unshapely arms, then look for a puffed or balloon sleeve. Thick waisted? Opt for an empire line maxi dress. Bottom heavy hips or thick thighs need a cinched in waisted maxi skirt or dress.

4. Show a flash of flesh. Break up the large expanse of fabric with thigh high slits at the front for a flash of leg. Alternatively go for a provocative keyhole back, slash the neckline to the cleavage, bare shoulders or arms. But remember to expose ONE bit only. Choose your best bit worth exposing and cover up the bits you don’t like.

5. Go for one area of volume. Choose either a full puffed sleeve OR a full skirt. Unless you are a 6ft tall glamazon about to strut the runway - generally stick to one area of fullness. Any “more” creates an overwhelming amount of fabric that doesn’t translate from runway to the every day. If wearing voluminous separates - team the oversized top with a skinny jean; or a maxi skirt with a nipped in tight top. Let the oversized piece be the hero and pare everything else right back to super fitted. Don’t risk the “super-sized everything” look.

6. Sheerness is next to Goddessli-ness. Look for maxis and kaftans in super sheer fabrics and wear a body hugging slip underneath. This will give a suggestion of your curves - rather than throwing on the equivalent of a car cover, which will only swamp your shape. Be sure to wear appropriate shape wear underneath though – a lace peek-a-boo slip is chic but Nanna’s holey knickers are not!

7. Softly softly. Voluminous pieces should only ever be created in the softest and drapiest of fabrics like chiffon, georgette, voiles, crepe de chine and mesh tulle gauze. The fabric should flutter and billow around you gently when you move. If it doesn’t – back away! Avoid thick, bulky inducing fabrics like starched linen, crisp taffetas or heavy dupion.

8. Bright block colours, bold pattern and prints. Volume works brilliantly with a bold print or splash of vibrant colour – look for this seasons’ hottest shades of cobalt blue, shocking pink, tangy tangerine or sunny yellow. Bold geometric prints also work well, just beware the size of the print and the proportion of volume is flattering for your height.