I recently received an email from Veronica, a reader seeking help with her wardrobe.
Hello, serafina.
I’m looking for some general fashion advice. I have a standard petite build at 5′2″ and 110 lbs with 34-24-34 measurements. But, because I’m large busted (34DD), I have great difficulty in finding clothes that fit properly. This problem runs the gamut from casual wear to business and formal wear. Any thoughts you have, including specific clothing manufacturers, would be greatly appreciated.
-Veronica
Yowza. 34DD is a toughie for me. I grabbed hold of my favorite L.A. stylist, Houston Sams, and I turned to Ellen Shing of Lula Lu, mastermind of all petite lingerie, for expert advice. Here are our suggestions.
C&C California Ava Tank 
| $58
Houston recommends:
First, there is no obvious solution like a line for bodacious babes in the bust.
I recommend starting with a great bra, like Wacoal. Consider a minimizer — they are worth the money. Or, try your luck at Nordstrom Rack (no pun intended). Then you layer, layer, layer — a trick that also creates support, believe it or not. T-shirts like C & C are really thin and work well together. And be sure to leave the underneath one showing a little bit to create interest.
Stay away from low-cut cleavage-enhancing tops without a base layer like a tank or camisole. If you are really bothered by this, keep your clothing more solid with colors that are close in hue (monochromatic) and play up accessories and shoes.
Wearing your hair up will create height and elongation. Use jackets and sweaters to add another layer. Keep t-shirts snug, but not too tight. You might also be a good candidate for the sexy secretary look…pencil skirt, tucked in sweater, and skinny belt (avoid thick belts at the waist) and heels.
A few recommended designers: Geren Ford, Ya-Ya, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, White Horse Couture T-shirts, Juicy Couture, Jared Gold, Splendid, C & C California, Banana Republic, Tory Burch, Rebecca Taylor, Nanette Lepour, Trina Turk, Ella Moss, and Free People. In the malls, try DKNY and the Gap.
Wacoal Seamless Minimizer Bra | 34 DD | $62
Ellen’s recommendation:
Visit figleaves.com
or Bare Necessities
for a variety of styles to fit your frame.
Other 34DD or 32DD customers have mentioned that the best brands are Wacoal, Le Mystere, and Chantelle, but, as you already know, it’s all individual.
Additionally, I recommend the following sites and brands:
MyShape.com
On MyShape, you can find a fit that’s true to your size. Upon completing your profile, the site generates a few suggestions for your body type. And voila! Instant outfits.
Rebecca & Drew TrioFit Slim Fit Shirt | 34DDR | $97
Rebecca & Drew
What’s great about
Rebecca & Drew is their custom shirt sizing feature that is measured to a woman’s bust. They offer 34DD regular sizing — my recommendation. The shirts are well tailored and are designed to accommodate for the boobs (notice the double button strategically placed so the twins don’t peek out at your co-workers). Remember to choose ‘R’ for a regular torso fit when ordering.
They’re also offering skirts and pants for spring.
Banana Republic & J.Crew pants and skirts
Check out Banana Republic and J.Crew petite pants for the office. They’re cut to fit 5’2” women and sizing runs small to large. They have great sales and you can generally find what you need online.
I’m also a huge fan of Raven Tailored and Theory pants.
AprilMarin.com
Here, you’ll find affordable, chic, classic, custom-made clothing for women. All pieces are sewn to fit your exact measurements. Visit your local tailor for the precise measurements and AprilMarin will complete your perfect jacket or dress in a bevy of colors and fabrics.
As always, ladies, if you have recommendations for Veronica, please leave a comment.
