The belly button is a small feature with outsized visual impact, anchoring the body’s midsection and contributing to overall realism. When choosing or customizing navels, consider shape, depth, and the surrounding skin tones. Common options include shallow, shallow-with-a-hollow effect, vertical oval, or rounded innie forms. The goal is to select a style that harmonizes with the body’s proportions and the doll’s intended personality.
Texture and shading around the navel create convincing depth. Start with a base color slightly darker than the surrounding skin to simulate a natural recessed area. A subtle, oval-shaped shadow can define the navel without creating a harsh line. For embedded or molded navels, ensure alignment with the natural waistline and symmetry with the opposite side. For protruding or “outie” shapes, emphasize the small protrusion with a gentle highlight along the ridge to simulate light catching on the skin.
Color-matching is essential. The navel area might be slightly cooler or warmer than adjacent skin; observe light conditions and adjust hue accordingly. Protective coatings or sealants should be evenly applied to prevent wear from friction or cleaning. With thoughtful selection and consistent care, customized navels can add a natural focal point to the torso while remaining durable and easy to maintain.