I’m often asked how to minimize the look of broad shoulders. Fortunately, there’s lots you can do to downplay your shoulders and feminize your body proportions.

But first things first… Don’t feel bad about the size of your shoulders!

Many cisgender (genetic) women have broad shoulders – including some of the most beautiful models and celebrities in the world.

Instead, try these 10 tips and techniques to minimize your shoulders while creating an elegant and feminine look.

1. Find a flattering neckline

As a general rule, you should avoid square or horizontal necklines. Instead, opt for necklines with rounded or vertical lines to help soften and slim your shoulders. For example:

Neckline DOs

• V-neck
• Scoop neck
• Halter tops
• Thick shoulder straps

Neckline DON’Ts

• Bateau neck
• Square neck
• Strapless or sleeveless tops
• Spaghetti straps

2. Wear the right size breast forms

Your breast forms should be large enough to balance out your shoulders. However, they shouldn’t be so big that they add excessive bulk to your upper body. Here are some guidelines for choosing a cup size:

• If you have a small frame – choose a B or C cup.

• If you have a medium frame – choose a C or D cup.

• If you have a large frame – choose a D cup or larger.

3. Wear darker colors on top

Dark colors have a slimming effect, so an easy way to balance your proportions is to wear dark colors on top and light colors on the bottom.

4. Choose your sleeves wisely

Sleeves can have a big impact (good or bad) on the appearance of your shoulders. Here are some suggestions:

• Avoid sleeves that cut horizontally across your biceps.

• Avoid puffy or ruffled sleeves.

• Look for sleeves with a slimming diagonal cut.

• 3/4 length sleeves are universally flattering.

5. Avoid shoulder pads

This tip is obvious. Shoulder pads are the last thing you need, so don’t be afraid to cut them out of your tops and jackets.

6. Distract with a printed bottom

Drawing people’s eyes away from your shoulders is a great distraction technique. Bring attention to your lower body with a printed or embellished bottom.

7. Wear skirts that flare out

Skirts that flare out at the bottom help balance the width of your shoulders, creating a more feminine silhouette. Look for gathered, flared, pleated, and/or a-line skirts. Avoid strait skirts and fitted pants.

8. Choose the right jacket

When it comes to jackets, you should avoid broad collars and double breasted styles. Instead, opt for single breasted jackets with a narrow collar and lapels.

9. Know your best necklace length

Long necklaces create vertical lines that help slim the upper body. Avoid short, chunky necklaces and chokers.

10. Find a flattering hairstyle

Yes, even the right hairstyle helps. Here are some guidelines:

• Hair that falls above or below your shoulders is most flattering.

• Avoid hairstyles that fall at exactly shoulder length.

• Straight hair emphasizes the angles of your body and can make the shoulders look wider.

• Full, wavy hair helps soften the shoulders and balances broader body proportions.

In conclusion

Never forget that you can look beautiful and feminine at any size or shape. The secret is to distract from so-called flaws while playing up your assets.

Do you have broad shoulders? If so, what are your favorite tips for looking your best when getting dressed?

Please share in the comments below!

Love,
Lucille

P.S. If you liked this article, you will LOVE my free 3-part Male to Female Makeover Course.

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Sometimes it’s the little details that make the biggest difference.

Take hands, for example…

You may have a feminine face, a melodic voice, and a body like Beyoncé – but if your hands send the wrong gender signal, you might be not making the impression you hoped for.

You can’t change the structure of your hands, of course. But the good news is that there are simple ways to downplay their size and make them look more feminine.

Read on for 4 dos and don’ts for feminizing your hands.

DO invest in the right grooming tools

Since we’re constantly using our hands, they’re a natural magnet for attention. That means that neatly groomed hands and nails are a must.

Good grooming doesn’t have to take much time – especially when you use the right tools. Here are a few items you should have in your arsenal:

• Nail brush – This is an essential tool for cleaning under the fingernails.

• Glass nail file – A glass nail file is gentler on the nails, so it’s a better option than an emery board or metal nail file.

• Nail buffer – Use a nail buffer to give your nails a natural shine without having to use polish.

• Hand cream – Hand creams are thicker than body lotions, so they offer extra hydration for hands and nails.

DON’T make these manicure mistakes

Whether you go to a salon or do it yourself, getting a manicure is a great way to polish your feminine look.

That said, there are couple mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

• Avoid nails that are too long or too short. Both of these extremes tend to make the fingers look more stubby. The most flattering nail length is about 1/8″-1/4″ past your fingertips.

• Avoid bright nail polish colors. If your hands aren’t your strong point, avoid bold colors and stick with neutral tones that blend into your hands. (Good options are soft pink, nude, or ivory.) Save the fun colors for your toes.

DON’T forget hairy knuckles

This seems obvious, but it still needs to be stated: If you have hairy knuckles, don’t forget to shave them when presenting yourself as a woman. No need for such a simple detail to run an otherwise impeccable feminine image!

DO use jewelry to your advantage

Rings and bracelets can definitely make your hands look prettier, but there are a couple important rules to follow:

• Avoid delicate jewelry. Dainty rings and bracelets are feminine, but they’re usual a “don’t” for crossdressers and transgender women. Delicate jewelry only makes your hands look bigger in comparison. Instead, look for chunkier jewelry styles that suit the proportions of your hands.

• Keep it low key. Flashy rings and bracelets call attention to an area you probably want to downplay. That means one or two simple pieces is all you need. Instead, keep the focus on your face with a statement necklace or beautiful earrings.

In conclusion

While your hands might not be your favorite feature, they don’t have to distract from a feminine look. Apply these tips and your hands will blend in beautifully.

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. How do you feel about your hands? Do you have any additional suggestions to add to this list?

Love,
Lucille

P.S. Hands are just one important detail of many. To evaluate your full feminine image, download my free Flawless Feminine Image Checklist below!