HELP! I'm an atypical 'apple' shape

[Anonymous]

I'd focus attention upwards as PPs mention, necklaces and earrings, scarves around the neck. I'd also consider faking more boobs with padded bras and getting more oomph/lift on the bustline.

In terms of minimizing your waist, you need darker colors that come down to the hips and then separate leggings/hose/slim fit jeans. You don't mention your legs, but I'm under the impression they might be slender? If so, you should really consider shorter skirts that are the same color are the top, so that visually people notice your nice legs and then sort of don't see the middle part of your body and then next logically focus on your face/neck.

[Anonymous]

Two words - ruching and spanx. I didn't discover the benefits of tops with ruching until I was pregnant and then I wondered "where have you been all my life?!"

[Anonymous]

I am a fashion merchandising teacher and honestly apples are the hardest to dress, but there are a lot of things you can do:
1.) Stick to woven fabrics vs. knits. Larger people tend to favor knits because they stretch but they actually emphasize bulk rather than hiding it which a woven fabric will do because it adds structure.
2.) Try out a 1-2 button blazer that tapers in at the waist. You don't need to button it. It will create the illusion of a smaller waist because it is so structured. There are some really cute denim, khaki and black ones out there. As it gets warmer you can roll up the cuffs to make them look more casual and the bracelet length arm will make your arms look slimmer.
3.) Mid Rise bright colored pants. Try a red pant or a white pant and place a darker or duller color on top. This will help add emphasis to your smaller area and balance out your body.
4.) Stick with bootcuts or slightly wide legged pants again its all about balance.
5.) Fuller skirts or A lines are a good choice.
6.) V Necks. V Necks slim everyone down up top and can help prevent creating a broader appearance which crew necks tend to do.
Hope this helps!