What to Wear to Enhance a Small Bust

Look for dresses and tops that feature gathering, pleats, twists, knots, and/or ruching at the bodice. A style that works well on small-busted women can provide a visual boost as effective as a good push-up bra.

The dress shown here has a gathered bust with a twist in the middle. This kind of detailing gives the illusion of curves through texture and volume. Notice how the gathered folds in the fabric create the appearance of a fuller, rounder bustline.

Draping at the neckline of a top, sweater or dress can be a very flattering style for small-busted figures. Just make sure the bodice is fitted and that the neckline doesn't dip too low, otherwise you could end up showing too much when you lean forward!

I love simple, elegant drape neck styles. This casual top (above right) and satin evening dress (left) are both classic prototypes you can keep in mind when shopping for clothes to enhance a small bust.

As you can see, this dress is quite low-cut. However, it doesn't overwhelm the model's small figure; that's because the dress isn't too wide for her shoulders, and it's cut to fit close to the body through the bust and waist.

Wear tops and dresses with ruffled necklines. A little ruffle can do wonders for a flat chest. My favorite way to wear bust-enhancing ruffles is on a scoop neck cotton eyelet blouse.

Try a pretty, feminine blouse like this one in white or cream -- light colors also help enhance a small bust, and you'll be able to wear a piece like this all year round. Just throw on a cropped jacket or cozy cardigan over it when the weather gets chilly.

If you are petite above the hips, wear shirts and blouses in petite or junior sizes. Look for tops and dresses that are fitted through the shoulders, waist and hips.

Note that both of the drape neck fashions shown above are fitted everywhere except at the neckline. Clothes that are cut too loose or boxy will swallow up your petite figure and hide what little curves you do have. For outerwear, petite figures look best in cropped jackets and belted coats that come in at the waist.

The smaller your waist appears, the larger your bust will look in contrast. In general, belts and sashes like the one on this dress (shown at left) are a petite woman's best friend. Even a belt worn at the hips (like with jeans) will draw attention upward to the smallest part of your waist.

Get the dress at
ModCloth.

See something here you like? Here's where you can get the fashions featured in the gallery above. Go ahead, give that sexy little bust of yours a gift... because small breasts are beautiful.
Repeat after me: I love my itty bitty rack, and I'm gonna dress it right.

TIBI teal silk ruffle blouse: Chick Downtown.
Ella Moss black cowl neck dress: Couture Candy.
Splendid silk & cotton halter dress: Chick Downtown.
Sheer Elegance chiffon dress: ModCloth.