Fall 2012 Fashion Trends for a Ruler Body Shape

Your straight up and down frame allows you to wear a lot of styles most women can’t get away with, but you want to be sure to add some feminine flair to keep from looking too boyish. Pops of red, textured knits and striking collars will up your girly—and style—quotients this fall.

1The trend: Cozy knit-wits

The runway: Chanel. Ruler shapes can rock different textures and patterns with ease. A striped sweater topped with a differently striped cardigan looks cool without overpowering a slight frame.

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2Your way:

Flash some serious fall style wattage with skinny houndstooth slacks, a flower-print top and a long, printed cardigan.

Free People Flower Power cardigan, $168, Marc By Marc Jacobs top, $258, Vince Camuto pants, $119, Nordstrom

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3Your way:

A sparkly mini and leggings add a little rock ‘n’ roll edge to a striped chunky knit sweater.

I Heart Ronson sweater, $25, Bisou Bisou skirt, $25, and leggings, $15, J.C. Penney

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4Your way:

It’s easy for thin ruler body types to layer in the fall, and this sweater-over-blouse combo is particularly chic for the office.

Banana Republic cable-knit sweater, $59.50, tie-neck top, $79.50, and accordion pleat skirt, $98, Banana Republic

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5The trend: Fifty shades of red

The runway: Diane von Furstenberg. The ultimate in sophistication? This stunning, fitted red sheath that a lucky ruler shape can rock without worrying about any unsightly bulges messing up the clean lines. One word: Stunning.

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6Your way:

Muted polka dots add a little interest to this flirty dress that looks adorable with tights and flats—very “New Girl,” don’t you think?

Madewell dreamdot dress, $160, Madewell.com

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7Your way:

The colored denim trend is made for ruler shapes. Go ahead and wear bright red pants—why not? Just balance out the brightness with a sweater and blazer in neutral tones on top and your look will be red hot for fall.

Merona red pants, $24.99, striped sweater, $19.99, blazer, $34.99, Target

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8Your way:

If you’re a little shy about wearing all red, look for a pattern. This pretty paisley print is polished and the boat neck, three-quarter-sleeve, belted style is perfect for rulers—and most other body shapes, as well.

Talbots paisley dress, $169, Talbots

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9The trend: Hot under the collar

The runway: Derek Lam. A print helps add the illusion of curves to a ruler’s straight body shape. The contrasting print collar just makes things more interesting.

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10Your way:

Animal magnetism? Yeah, you’ve got it. Now show your spots on your collar with this fun top and get extra trendy by pairing it with red pants. Ree-ow!

Tommy Hilfiger top, $59.50, and red jeans, $69.50, at Macy’s

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11Your way:

You don’t need to buy a tuxedo to get the dressed up look. This white blouse with a black collar and cuffs mimics the black tie feel, while a short bright blue miniskirt gives the whole outfit a cool, young spin.

Vince Camuto blouse, $79, and double-layer skirt, $79, Nordstrom

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12Your way:

Casual Friday gets a sweet dose of polish with this black sweater with a pretty lace rounded collar that totally dresses up your denim.

Yellow Bird lace collar pullover, $88, Anthropologie

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