An apple shape looks best in tops with low, wide necklines such as a V-neck, scoop, sweetheart or square neck. These help create a long, trim line for your body. Wrap or empire waist tops can also flatter your shape, as can shirts with ruching down the front or sides. Look for tops with decorative sleeve details including flares, cuffs or slits to draw attention to your slim arms. Patterned or textured tops help camouflage the weight around your middle. Make sure your shirts fall either just below the hips or, for a tunic top, several inches below the crotch for the most flattering fit. When it comes to blazers and jackets, avoid styles that end at your waist -- the hem should hit at your hips to help slim your middle. No matter what type of shirt, blouse or jacket you wear, a well-fitting bra is a must if you want your tops to fit well.

To prevent adding bulk to your stomach, don't wear pants with pleats or gathers. Instead, opt for flat front styles with clean lines. Low-rise pants can make you look top-heavy, so go with styles that hit at your natural waist or slightly above if you want to create a girdle-like effect. You can balance out your larger middle by choosing wide leg trousers, but straight leg pants also work well for an apple shape. When it comes to jeans, flared or boot cut styles flatter your frame by creating balance. If you have a flat backside, choose pants with back pockets to create the illusion of a curvier shape.

A-line skirts and dresses are fitted at the waist but flare out to create balance for your lower body. For the office, choose styles that end just above the knee to show off your legs. For an evening out, though, you can go a little shorter. Wrap dresses also flatter an apple shape because they create a deep V neckline that makes you look longer and leaner, and the side tie takes attention away from your stomach.

Because you have slim arms, use bracelets as a key accessory. Mix gold and silver bangles or wear a chunky cuff bracelet to help finish off your look. Drop and chandelier style earrings also work well for your shape because they help draw the eye to your face and away from your middle. You can create the same effect with a bold statement necklace such as a bib style or chunky metal chain. When it comes to handbags, opt for a shoulder style that won’t add any bulk to the middle of your body.