How to dress a big bust

[Northby]

Hello wonderful mumsnetters

I am fairly tall, size 10-12 but a size 14 on the bust. I really struggle finding flattering clothes that fit me so I don’t look top heavy (I can fall into the trap of tops that look like a tent and little stick legs poking out the bottom!). I don’t like having my bust on display as there is rather a lot of it.

Does anyone know of any style influencers for slim frames and large bust?

Does anyone have any ideas of how to dress me, please?! I like material with a bit of give so I can raise my arms/my shoulders don’t feel squashed.

I don’t really have a style so all inspiration is gratefully received!!

Thank you

I find V neck(not too low cut) is much more flattering than round neck as it draws the eyes down. In cold weather like this l find that layers - open cardigan over a jumper has the same effect. A long necklace draws the eyes downwards. Shirt type blouses are the least flattering garments l find as most seem to be modelled on the lines of mens' shirts and, unless fairly small busted, gape at the vital point.

Its all about the cut of things for me. For example, I will actually wear high neck tops. V necks highlight my aging neck and don't look very modern on me - that's where other bits of your shape/preferences start having an impact too. But they have to have sufficient room to cover both my bust and not make me feel self conscious around my stomach. Some of these types of tops are really tight, short or ribbed none of which works with a large bust. Something like this is better, thinner, longer and with give: Then worn with a cardigan over and a necklace to break it up. Layering is a big bust's friend.

I have also come to realise that broadening my hips is a good way to balance the figure. These trousers from Seasalt are really good at that as they have pockets to the side.

Shirts I think are more accessible these days as they are often oversized. I wouldn't ever attempt a normal fitted shirt. I wear those more in the summer as cardigan equivalents but they can also be worn over jumpers.

Chunky jumpers do not work at all. Not only do they not give much potential for layering, they just make me look very bulky. Thin jumpers are much better, then you can wear something over the top.

This is a good video on dressing a large bust
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Like you the differential between by bust and waist is much bigger than this lady (30FF bust, 28 inch waist) but there are some good concepts.

Thanks so much both of you for your ideas and the links!! Lots of things for me to try.

Thank you!

That video, along with many others, unfortunately, always assumes the general figure is large, if you have a large bust, and that is just not true. The lady in the video is fat, she doesn't really have a particularly big bust to waist ratio.

So, yes, I am a 10/12 with a big bust, small frame, 30/32 GG/HH. V necked, yes, really difficult to find atm, but also fitted and ribbed works really well, as although it makes the norks stand out, you also get a better waist. 1940's fashions are the way to go! In summer I also try to seek out sherring, as it allows you to buy a 10/12 dress for your frame and waist, but stretches out to accommodate the boobs.

search for 'Flattering Dress for Large Bust' or 'clothes for busty slight women'
Dresses & Tops for Big Busts: Large Cup Size Edit | Peacocks
(not everyone's go to for style but I like their clothes)
Best Clothing for Big Busts – hourglassy.com

sherring is probably a typing for shirring

This sort of style might work Printed V-Neck Shirred Midi Tea Dress | M&S Collection | M&S (marksandspencer.com)
whereas this one might not Adele Shirred Midi Dress, Dresses | FatFace.com
BUT Model1 is slender and Model2 is less skinny

There is a great Facebook page called Style Me Happy. You can find out your season and colourings and sign up to her mini shops as and when you need some inspo. I’ve done it and found it useful, I’ve only done a couple mini shops but I did it for the summer etc and found it great for what to wear and once I found a style I liked I stuck with it x

Typo not typing

The most important thing is to wear a decent bra.