When it comes to dressing for your body shape, it’s important to understand your unique figure and choose clothing styles that flatter your proportions. While everyone’s body is different, there are some general guidelines that can help enhance your best features and create a balanced silhouette. Here are some tips for dressing for different body shapes:
Rectangle or Straight Shape
Characteristics: Not particularly curvy, shoulders and hip measurements are nearly the same, waist isn’t very small or well-defined, weight is fairly evenly distributed throughout the body .
Tips for dressing: Create the illusion of curves by adding volume or definition to the bust and hips. Choose clothing styles that cinch at the waist or create the illusion of a waistline. Opt for tops with ruffles, patterns, or details to add volume to the bust area. A-line skirts and dresses can help create the illusion of curves.
Pear or Triangle Shape
Characteristics: Wider waist than bust, fuller hips, narrower shoulders in comparison to hips .
Tips for dressing: Balance the proportions by drawing attention to the upper body. Choose tops with details like ruffles, patterns, or embellishments to add volume to the bust and shoulders. Opt for A-line or flared skirts and dresses to create balance and minimize the focus on the hips. Darker colors or patterns on the bottom can also help create a balanced look .
Hourglass Shape
Characteristics: Well-defined waist, bust and hip measurements are similar, balanced proportions.
Tips for dressing: Emphasize the waist and highlight the curves. Choose clothing styles that cinch at the waist or have a defined waistline. Wrap dresses, belted tops, and high-waisted bottoms can accentuate the hourglass figure. Opt for fitted or tailored clothing that follows the natural curves of the body.
Apple or Round Shape
Characteristics: Fullness around the midsection, broader shoulders, narrower hips.
Tips for dressing: Create a balanced look by drawing attention away from the midsection. Choose clothing styles that highlight the bust and legs. V-neck tops, empire waist dresses, and A-line skirts can help create a more elongated silhouette. Avoid clingy or tight-fitting clothing around the midsection and opt for fabrics that drape and flow instead.
Inverted Triangle Shape
Characteristics: Broad shoulders, narrower hips, smaller bust.
Tips for dressing: Create balance by adding volume or definition to the lower body. Choose clothing styles that emphasize the hips and create the illusion of curves. A-line skirts, wide-leg pants, and peplum tops can help create a more balanced silhouette. Avoid shoulder pads or tops with heavy embellishments on the shoulders.