Written by Wendy Mak

Continuing my series of "how to" fashion posts on how to dress all the beautiful parts of our bodies, in this post I'm sharing 5 easy ways to dress a small chest. (For those with the opposite, re-visit my post on dressing a fuller bust here).

You've probably read that you should wear ruffles and details across your bust line. And that's true. But not everyone loves girly frou-frou ruffles and lace flouncing along our chest. We don't all have a "girly" aesthetic, so are there other ways to dress your bust?

Here's 5 ideas to dress a small chest with details yes, but ruffles no.

1. Choose a higher neckline

If you have a smaller bust, you can afford to play with higher necklines. I love a high neckline, there is something very elegant and chic about being able to pull off a sleek neckline.

This jacket below is great because it features some lovely asymmetric lines which also helps to create additional interest, and a beautiful (not tacky) gold sheen which will also help to create a fuller silhouette.

Jacket from Sheike

2. Go a little cray-cray with patterns

That's right ladies. Go to town with patterns. Make them as big, bold and colourful as you dare. Or, keep them simple and geometric like this black & white knit which will look oh-so-fabulous under a blazer or on its own with jeans.

Knit from Review

3. Pockets, tabs & buttons

Details across the bust doesn't have to be just ruffles. Pockets, tabs and buttons (even zips) across the chest area can help to build a bigger bust line. I love this shirt dress because it has great pocket detail across the chest but in sophisticated black you are spared from looking like you should be in an open-top jeep in the Sahara.

Just beware that this dress also has pockets across the bottom half - so you want to make sure that doesn't add bulk across the thigh area if that's an area of concern for you.

Dress from Marcs

4. Think oversized

When it comes to collars, lapels, scarves - think oversized. Keep them simple but big.

I love this throw with this oversized collarÂ (officially described on their site as a "scarf plus wraparound jumper"). Wear with a simple pair of skinny jeans and a fitted top underneath, oversized tote, boots and you're good to go.

I mean it's like a poncho with arms - what genius!

Knit from Sheike

5. Try a little bling

So maybe ruffles might not be your thing, what about a bit of bling?

Look for tops or cardi's like this which have some shiny embellishment to add texture and dimension to the bust line. A cropped cardi in a bright colour also helps to bring more volume to the bust area.

Knit from Review

I hope that helps inspire you to try some different ways to build a bust without ruffles. As always if you've enjoyed this please share it and / or drop me a comment below.

Until next time!

5 easy ways to dress a small chest