I have no idea what to wear anymore, and I feel really frustrated. I'm 5'3'' tall with a 25" waist and a DD bra size....needless to say, I have a really, really hard time finding tops that fit. What styles should I try? I'm sad to say that all I have been wearing lately are t-shirts that are either much too tight or are too big. Help!

I hear ya! You helped me with the sad bathing suit issue so I'll see what I can suggest. I'm 5' 7" so not exactly petite but I'm not tall either, otherwise, I've got the same.

I try to stay away from tops that are too fitted on top but flowy on the bottom. They either make me look big overall or pregnant, of which I am neither.

I try to go for things that are targeted for 'hour glass figures'. Anything that's fitted on top but that gathers at the waist (to show I have one) and than hits just above the knee is my general rule (minimizes my bust, accentuates my waist and makes me look taller). Wrap dresses are great, anything tailored to fit around the waist that I can fit in the chest as well is ideal. I like button downs but typically have to wear them open with a cami simply because they won't fit otherwise.

Also, anything that shows too much of your chest will make you look bigger overall so I usually go for something that minimizes. Empire cuts with fitted waists are great for that - hard to find but awesome.

Typically Ann Taylor and Express tops/dresses fit me best - they're tailored for bigger busts and smaller waists (sometimes). Banana Republic usually fits great except in the chest and their pants are a lost cause. Gap is good for pants if you're short. I'm right in between regular and short but I do a lot of hemming.

Unfortunately most stores are built for bigger frames or people without the 'ideal' curves. All I can say is try a lot and learn what works for you. It's taken a lot of bad tops to find some that I love and flatter me.

When I get some time I'll make some 'outfits' for you with some of the tops I've found that work for me. I don't know your style but I hope this helps.

I have a similar issue, more on the curves than height. My chest is similar in size, and I have found that there are only a few necklines that work for me given the proportions I have. I think if you have a big chest, V-necks and scoop necks are the way to go for tops. Anything that is tailored, like an oxford / button down, I think adds stress due to pulling in front. Add a blazer over the t-shirt and it gets more formal / dressy, and a cardigan (grandfather style I like best) if you can be more casual.