Choosing the right top can not only conceal broad shoulders and thick arms but also create a more harmonious and feminine silhouette.
Fitted Sleeveless Tops
Sleeveless tops are often chosen for their cooling and lightweight qualities. However, deeply cut armholes and tight-fitting fabrics will reveal the entire upper arm and shoulder area. Additionally, if the fabric is too thin and lacks fluidity, it can make the shoulders appear more angular and less graceful.
Fitted sleeveless tops can accentuate broad shoulders and thick arms.
Spaghetti Strap Tops
Spaghetti strap tops are always a summer favorite, but they’re not the most flattering choice for those with broad shoulders or larger arms. Thin straps can give the impression of overexposed shoulders, making the entire upper body appear thicker and less balanced. Moreover, small straps often fail to adequately cover bras, affecting the wearer’s confidence.
Thin straps emphasize the upper arm and shoulder area, making them appear larger.
Excessively Puffed Three-Quarter Sleeves
Three-quarter puffed sleeves are supposed to conceal flaws, but they can sometimes have the opposite effect. This sleeve style tends to make the arms look wider due to the added volume, especially if the puffed area aligns with the upper arm—the area you want to conceal.
Ill-fitting three-quarter puffed sleeves can draw attention to the upper arms.
5 Top Styles to Flatter Your Figure This Summer
For individuals with broad shoulders and thick arms, the key to styling is to opt for pieces that visually soften the upper body rather than trying to conceal it entirely. Avoid details that draw attention to the shoulders, such as structured shoulder pads, ruffled sleeves, or flamboyant patterns.
Choosing the right top will not only make you look stylish but also boost your confidence by cleverly hiding your flaws.
Prioritize fabrics with fluidity and opt for neutral or pastel colors. V-necks or wide round necks create a liberating effect. Most importantly, divert attention downward by adding emphasis to the waist or skirt—this is a clever way to disperse focus from the upper body, resulting in a more harmonious silhouette.
Here are five top styles to include in your summer wardrobe—not only will they make you look good, but they’ll also make you feel more confident in every moment.
Lightweight Three-Quarter Sleeves with Fluid Fabric
Instead of puffed sleeves, opt for three-quarter-length sleeves with a straight cut and lightweight, fluid fabrics such as rayon, silk blends, or fine longitudinally woven cotton. The sleeves should neither be tight-fitting nor overly flared, creating a soft drape that makes the upper arms and shoulders appear slimmer.
Lightweight three-quarter sleeves with fluid fabric – an intelligent choice for thick arms, creating an overall elegant and relaxed look.
Additionally, this style is incredibly versatile: it pairs well with jeans and midi skirts alike. Opt for neutral or light pastel colors for an even more sophisticated ensemble.
V-Neck or Wide Round Neck with Three-Quarter or Batwing Sleeves
V-necks are renowned for their figure-flattering qualities. They not only elongate the neck and upper body but also make the shoulders appear narrower. When combined with three-quarter or batwing sleeves, this style is both comfortable and adept at concealing flaws.
Note: Avoid plunging V-necklines—opt for a moderate depth that remains appropriate for the workplace or casual outings.
The V-neck and moderately puffed sleeves create a soft, graceful silhouette while narrowing the shoulders.
Moderately Oversized Shirts
Oversized shirts that aren’t too long are a godsend for all body types lacking confidence in their upper body. Opt for designs with draped or sloping shoulders, avoiding structured shoulder pads or ruffled sleeves. Long sleeves can be casually rolled up to create a liberating effect while concealing thick arms.
Consider partial or full tucking to emphasize the waist and prevent the shirt from overwhelming your frame.
Moderately oversized shirts with clever styling are a brilliant choice for thick arms this summer, achieving a polished yet subtly concealing look.
Peplum Tops with Mildly Puffed Sleeves and Structured Fabric
Peplum tops are renowned for their waist-cinching and body-balancing effects. For those with thick arms, opt for a peplum top with mildly puffed sleeves and structured fabric such as thick cotton, linen blends, or poplin. This combination maintains the sleeve shape without excessive puffiness, while the gentle flare at the waist visually “distracts” from the shoulders and arms, making them appear slimmer.
Peplum tops with mild puffed sleeves and waist emphasis successfully divert attention away from the upper body.
Wide-Strap Cami Tops with Lightweight Jackets
If you still want to enjoy the cooling effect of cami tops during the summer, opt for wider straps instead of spaghetti straps. Wider straps provide better coverage for the shoulders, and they’re more bra-friendly. Pairing it with a lightweight jacket such as a cardigan, silk blazer, or an unbuttoned shirt offers a stylish yet comprehensive coverage solution.
Wide-strap cami tops with lightweight jackets – a refined and cool choice for hot summer days.
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