Shirts: What Type Should I Buy for a Curvy Body Shape?

Introduction

Shirts are a wardrobe staple, but for curvy women, finding one that fits well across the bust, doesn't gape at the buttons, and still flatters the waist is no easy task. Whether for work, smart-casual dressing or elevated basics, the wrong shirt can flatten your shape—or worse, create unflattering tension lines and bulging gaps.

At Tellar.co.uk, we understand the challenges curvy women face when it comes to inconsistent sizing. Our platform matches your body measurements to real brand data across 1,500+ retailers, giving you instant clarity on which size to buy where.

This guide breaks down the most flattering shirt styles for curvy figures, the technical construction features to look out for, and the brands doing it best—along with the ones to be cautious of.

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Understanding the Fit Issues Curvy Women Face with Shirts

Shirts—particularly woven, button-up styles—are notorious for bad fit on busty or curvy frames. The most common issues include:

• Button gaping at the bust

• Oversized waist and back panel

• Flattening across the chest

• Sleeves that pull or twist

• Shoulder seams not aligning properly

These problems usually stem from shirts being cut to straight, slim proportions. Most high-street patterns are developed around a B-cup with narrow shoulders and minimal hip shaping.

With over 45% of women falling into a curvy or hourglass category, it's time to choose shirts that actually accommodate real figures—and that's where Tellar.co.uk helps.

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Best Shirt Styles for Curvy Figures

1. Stretch Poplin Button-Ups

Why they work:

• Provide a crisp, smart look while flexing across the bust

• Maintain structure without pulling

• Often come with bust darts for better contouring

Features to look for:

• 3–5% elastane

• Bust shaping seams or darts

• Side panels that taper into the waist

Brands that get it right:

• Hobbs: Businesswear button-ups in stretch cotton

• Phase Eight: Feminine tailoring with extra give

• Marks & Spencer Autograph: Good bust space and structured fit

🔗 Check your size across all three brands via Tellar.co.uk/store-size-lookup

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2. V-Neck Blouses and Draped Shirts

Why they work:

• Create visual elongation at the neckline

• Draw attention to the waist

• Accommodate a fuller bust without squashing

Great for: Day-to-evening transitions, Zoom calls, or office wear.

Key features:

• Lightweight woven viscose or silk

• Wrap-front or draped neckline

• Slight A-line through the waist

Best options from:

• & Other Stories: Draped silhouettes with room to move

• Mango: Flattering V-necklines with curve-compatible fits

• Reiss: Elegant, bust-friendly wrap styles (check size via Tellar)

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3. Peplum or Tie-Waist Blouses

Why they work:

• Highlight the waist—essential for curvy women

• Skim the midsection without clinging

• Add balance to bust and hips

Best used for: Office, smart casual or layering under blazers.

Shop these from:

• Whistles: Tie-waist tops with structure

• Boden: Peplum cuts that flatter the waist

• River Island Plus: Fashion-forward tailoring for curvy sizes

🔗 Use Tellar.co.uk to determine whether the peplum breaks at the right point for your height and proportions.

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4. Stretch Jersey Shirts

Why they work:

• Mould to your curves without straining

• Easier to layer under jackets

• Comfortable all-day fit

Look for:

• High-quality jersey or ponte

• Button or zip-front options

• Slight shaping through the torso

Best brands:

• Uniqlo: Simple stretch basics

• Elvi: Curve-specific jersey tailoring

• ASOS Curve: Jersey shirts with modern details

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5. Classic Shirt Dresses (Worn as Longline Shirts)

Why they work:

• Provide full coverage for bust and hips

• Beltable to define the waist

• Vertical line lengthens the body

Styling tip: Wear open as a longline shirt over jeans or trousers, or buttoned up and belted.

Find in:

• Zara (TRF): Size with caution—check fit via Tellar

• H&M+: Belted, longline shirt dresses

• Monsoon: Curve-conscious waist seams and structure

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Technical Features to Look For

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What to Avoid in Shirts if You’re Curvy

❌ Boxy, oversized shirts

• Hide your shape and exaggerate width

❌ No-dart poplins

• Guaranteed to gape across the bust

❌ High necklines or mandarin collars

• Visually shorten the upper torso and flatten bust

❌ Cropped shirts ending at the bust line

• Disrupt proportions and draw attention to width

❌ Shirts with chest-level patch pockets

• Add unnecessary volume where it’s not needed

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Best Fabrics for Curve-Friendly Shirts

Avoid stiff polyester or unlined poplins without darts—they pull across curves and offer no forgiveness.

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Brand Recommendations: Where to Shop for Curve-Friendly Shirts

High Street:

• M&S Autograph: Structured yet bust-friendly

• Next Curve: Smart workwear with flattering details

• H&M+: Affordable, inclusive sizing

Mid-Range:

• Hobbs: Well-cut basics and formalwear

• Whistles: Modern silhouettes, especially wrap blouses

• Boden: Great for tailored feminine styles

Premium/Designer:

• Lauren Ralph Lauren: Stretch-poplin shirts with luxury finish

• Me+Em: Elevated shirting in contemporary cuts

• Marina Rinaldi (Max Mara Group): Luxe tailoring for curvier bodies

🎯 Use Tellar.co.uk/store-size-lookup to confirm your size in any of these brands instantly.

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Fit Tip: Size for the Bust, Tailor the Waist

If you find shirts that fit the bust but are too loose around the waist, size up where needed and tailor down. Many curvy women wear shirts that are too small across the bust, causing pulling at the buttons—leading to a poor fit overall.

📏 Use Tellar’s free printable measuring tape and guide:

https://www.tellar.co.uk

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CTA: Shop Shirts with Confidence

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No more gaping buttons. No more returns. Just your perfect shirt, first time.

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“Find your size in 1,500+ brands real-time. It’s free & easy.”

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