We're still on our menswear-inspired fashion soapbox, this time taking a look at the classic tailored Button Down Shirt.  It speaks to the minimalism we're expecting for Spring 2011, but can easily be paired with any trendy statement piece to ratchet up the visual interest and deliver a flattering look on any figure.

Body Type: Long and Lean

 Wall G** Ruffle Shirt US$68, Arden B. Sequin Bandage Pencil Skirt C$67.34, ASOS Bow Skinny Belt US$10.34

Feminine ruffles create visual interest and add just a touch of volume to your bust line. A high-waisted black sequined pencil skirt hugs curves, and paired with a slim belt creates an hourglass silhouette.

Body Type: Petite

NW3 by Hobbs Shirt US$118.96, Wet Seal Wide-Leg Denim Trouser US$29, Aldo Botkins Hidden Platforms C$59.98 (sale)

A blouse with a small print is the best choice for petite women. Wide-leg trousers fall straight down and create the illusion of height and a streamlined profile.  Add extra inches slyly with platform pumps.

Body Type: Busty

ASOS Fitted Shirt US$51.72, ASOS Full Mini Prom Skirt US$51.72, Forever 21 Sun Beaded Bracelet C$6.80

Choose a top with a larger lapel and buttons starting at the bust to elongate your neck and tone down your voluptuous top half. Pair with a fuller skirt in a bright colour to cleverly draw the eye to the lower half of your body and balance your proportions. Wear a Bejeweled Statement Cuff instead of a necklace - a simple way to sport big bling without drawing extra attention to your bust.

Body Type:  Pear Shaped

ASOS Double Collar Button Front Blouse US 51.72, Mac & Jac Boot-Cut Jeans C$51.75, Cara Pearl and Crystal Statement Necklace US$98

A voluminous shirt is a easy tool for proportioning a pair-shared figure. Boot-Cut flares instantly slim down thighs and hips, and a bold statement necklace will draw the eye to your face.

Body Type: Curvy and Full Figured

ASOS Longline Shirt US$31.03, TopShop Equestrian Skinny Tregging US$80, Coast Hayley Pencil Skirt US$39.65 (sale), Torrid Stretch Black Snake Garment Wide Belt US$24

A longline shirt that perfectly fits the bust and falls past the hipbone does wonders for curvy women. Look for styles with a low neckline to elongate your neck and draw attention to your face. To avoid gaping at the bust, buy a size larger than you currently wear and have the waist and sleeves altered. Wear the shirt over narrow trousers or tucked into a structured pencil skirt to showcase your hourglass shape and accessorize with a wide belt (tip: it cinches your waist like a corset and accentuates your slenderest part).

Which styling tricks do you use to flatter your figure?

by Oendrila Majumder