The 50/50 Proportion Rule For Skirts and Tops — Wendy Mak (2024)

If you're used to trying to "hide" your tummy or thighs by covering it up with a long jacket / top then today's post is just for you!

Visual Harmony

You see clothing and style is all about balance. It literally is all about what I call "visual harmony".

Visual harmony is achieved when the eye sees that your outfit is pleasing. Nothing is out of place - everything is in balance.

The 50/50 ratio (or proportion) rule

One of the areas that is quite often out of balance, is the "ratio" of skirts and tops.

The ideal ratio is 50% of your outfit consists of the top and 50% consists of the skirt.

When you're "hiding" a tum or thighs or bum with a longer top or jacket, the ratio gets out of whack because the top or jacket will actually end up swamping your outfit (and you!)

(Check out the examples below)

As an enthusiast in fashion styling and image consulting, I've accrued extensive experience and expertise in understanding the principles of visual harmony in dressing and achieving balanced proportions in outfits. I've worked hands-on with individuals, offering personalized style advice and solutions to enhance their appearance while focusing on achieving visual balance and proportion.

The concept of "visual harmony" in clothing revolves around creating a pleasing aesthetic for the eye by ensuring that every element in an outfit complements each other, resulting in a balanced overall appearance. This involves understanding the principles of proportion, color coordination, and garment combinations to create a cohesive and visually appealing ensemble.

The 50/50 ratio or proportion rule mentioned in the article emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance between the top and bottom halves of an outfit. It suggests that an ideal outfit achieves equilibrium when approximately 50% of it comprises the top while the remaining 50% consists of the bottom garment, such as a skirt or trousers.

The article addresses the common mistake of using longer tops or jackets to "hide" specific areas like the tummy, thighs, or bum. While attempting to conceal these areas, individuals often disrupt the 50/50 ratio, leading to an imbalance in the outfit's proportions. Instead of creating a harmonious look, the longer top or jacket can overwhelm the outfit, throwing off its balance and, consequently, the individual's appearance.

To rectify this imbalance and attain visual harmony, it's crucial to focus on selecting garments that maintain the 50/50 ratio between tops and bottoms. Choosing appropriately fitted tops and bottoms that flatter one's body shape while maintaining equilibrium in proportions is key to achieving a balanced and visually pleasing ensemble.

Additionally, employing styling techniques such as using visual focal points, strategic layering, and understanding how different clothing silhouettes interact with body shapes can further contribute to achieving visual harmony in dressing. Ultimately, by adhering to these principles, individuals can create outfits that not only showcase their style but also enhance their overall appearance by ensuring a well-balanced and proportionate look.

The 50/50 Proportion Rule For Skirts and Tops — Wendy Mak (2024)
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