Spring 2013 Fashion Trends for a Ruler Body Shape

Narrow in the hips, chest, rear—and well, just about everywhere? Yep, you’re a Ruler shape. Add curves by layering, looking for patterns that pop (but don’t overwhelm) and mixing textures.

Now that you know what your best fashion bets are, you’re ready to rock the latest in spring fashion. Check out our favorite high-end designer styles straight off the runway—along with “real life,” wearable takes on the hottest spring trends that flatter your Ruler shape.

QUIZ: What’s Your Body Shape?

1The trend: Graphic black and white

The runway: Marc Jacobs

Saunter into your next fancy party wearing a long, slinky, printed skirt with a fitted striped top—all in subtle sequins—and trust us, there will be no doubt who gets the title of coolest girl in the room.


Your way: White gets an assist from black in this fun frock that’s girlie and graphic at the same time. Plus, it’s a hit for Ruler shapes, since you can totally pull off the boxy silhouette. Check mate!

MORE: Your Guide to Dressing For Your Body Shape


Your way: White gets an assist from black in this fun frock that’s girlie and graphic at the same time. Plus, it’s a hit for Ruler shapes, since you can totally pull off the boxy silhouette. Check mate!

MORE: Your Guide to Dressing For Your Body Shape

Olsenboye shirt, $25, corset, $20, and


Your way: No need to go out and buy a new black and white graphic-print outfit. Use basics you already own. Of course, if you’re feeling the shopping itch, pick up new versions—you know you’ll wear them again and again. When you team a white and black blouse with a black corset and black leggings, you’ve nailed the trend.

MORE: Dressing Sexy (And Classy!) for Your Shape

5The trend: Shorts suits

The runway: Christian Siriano

Playing with different textures (Lace! Sheen! Sheer!) helps add curves to a Ruler’s slight frame.

Gap blazer, $88, and

Your way: Feeling preppy? We’ve got the perfect shorts suit for you: a neon-striped blazer layered over a thin sweater and button down, paired with eyelet shorts. One word: adorable.

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Your way: If you work in a creative office, congrats! You can head into work wearing shorts this spring. This uber-polished suit hits on the black and white trend, too, but the print is petite enough to keep from overpowering your lithe frame. Hint: It would look ultra-chic with sexy stilettos on date night, too.


Your way: Keep things casual by mixing fabrics. Rulers will look cool and laid back, yet anything but sloppy, in a nubby blazer, denim shirt and striped denim shorts.

MORE: Find the Perfect Wedding Gown for a Ruler

9The trend: Bold stripes

The runway: Tommy Hilfiger

Part candy striper plus part power suit equals total style. When you want to be noticed, wide red and white stripes will do the trick.

J. Crew stripe jersey maxi skirt, $75, and

Your way: You’ve heard the old fashion adage: Horizontal stripes make you look wider. Use that to your advantage, slender Rulers, by teaming the look on both top and bottom, pairing wider stripes with skinnier ones. So chic.

MORE: How Your Measurements Relate to Health

Your way: From the twisted neckline, to the poppy stripes to the flouncy skirt, this feminine dress gives a Ruler the illusion of curves—and serious license to hit the dance floor.

Your way: Live out your rock star fantasies in colorful vertically striped jeans that are sure to earn you your own groupie following. Add a novelty T-shirt for fun or a black tank and blazer for a more glam vibe.

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