Stripes are getting a shake up this season with the horizontal variety taking a backseat to vertical ones. While the eye-catching print is a welcomed change, they offer a built-in advantage to side-to-side stripes.
“Vertical stripes can really elongate your features,” Jamie Lewin, director of trend and design for Piperlime, tells Us Weekly. “So if you want to look taller, put on a top, dress or bottom with vertical stripes.”
For an instantly slimming effect, pay attention to the width. “If they’re too wide, it can be unflattering,” Lewin says. “Instead, go for narrower ones to create the illusion of length.”
To avoid looking like an NFL referee, stick to either a top or bottom with vertical stripes, not both. “Break them up with solid pieces,” Lewin tells Us.
Try the trend like Jessica Alba, Selena Gomez and Rihanna with these easy-to-wear options.
Mix prints with the Stripe Column Midi dress, which creates the illusion of longer legs thanks to its vertical striped-skirt. ($97, Oasis.andotherbrands.com)
Pair the Sanctuary Free Shell with black pants or dark jeans for an ultra-slimming style. “The solid color in the center with stripes down the side also flatters curves,” Lewin says. ($89, Piperlime.com)
Add just a touch of the trend with the knee-length Striped Flippy Skirt by Max Studio. ($19.99, Tjmaxx.com)