Understanding Body Shapes

Every body is unique, but most fall into one of several general shape categories. Learning to identify your body shape is the first step toward dressing in a way that makes you look and feel your best. The five main body shapes are apple, pear, hourglass, rectangle, and inverted triangle.

Remember that body shapes can change over time due to factors like age, weight fluctuations, and fitness levels. The key is to dress for the shape you have now, not the one you wish you had or used to have.

Identifying Your Body Shape

To determine your body shape, stand in front of a mirror in form-fitting clothing or underwear and observe your proportions:

Apple Shape

Apple body shape

Characteristics: Broader shoulders and bust with weight carried around the midsection, slimmer legs

Pear Shape

Pear body shape

Characteristics: Narrow shoulders, smaller bust, wider hips and thighs

Hourglass Shape

Hourglass body shape

Characteristics: Balanced bust and hips with a defined waist

Rectangle Shape

Rectangle body shape

Characteristics: Shoulders, waist and hips are similar in width

Inverted Triangle

Inverted triangle body shape

Characteristics: Broad shoulders and bust, narrow hips

Styling Tips for Each Body Shape

Apple Shape Styling

Goals: Elongate the torso, define the waist, draw attention upward

  • Tops: V-necks, wrap styles, empire waists, structured jackets
  • Bottoms: Straight or wide-leg pants, A-line skirts
  • Dresses: Empire waist, fit-and-flare, wrap dresses
  • Fabrics: Medium-weight fabrics that drape well
  • Avoid: Tight tops, high necklines, cropped jackets

Pear Shape Styling

Goals: Balance proportions, emphasize the waist, add volume to upper body

  • Tops: Boat necks, off-the-shoulder, embellished tops
  • Bottoms: Dark wash jeans, A-line skirts, bootcut pants
  • Dresses: Fit-and-flare, wrap dresses, peplum styles
  • Fabrics: Structured fabrics for bottoms, lighter fabrics for tops
  • Avoid: Skinny pants without balance, tight skirts

Hourglass Shape Styling

Goals: Accentuate the waist, maintain balance between top and bottom

  • Tops: Fitted styles, sweetheart necklines, wrap tops
  • Bottoms: High-waisted styles, pencil skirts, tailored pants
  • Dresses: Bodycon, wrap dresses, belted styles
  • Fabrics: Stretchy fabrics that follow curves
  • Avoid: Baggy clothing, boxy silhouettes

Rectangle Shape Styling

Goals: Create curves, define the waist, add dimension

  • Tops: Peplum tops, ruffles, off-shoulder styles
  • Bottoms: Flared pants, skirts with volume
  • Dresses: Belted styles, fit-and-flare, wrap dresses
  • Fabrics: Textured fabrics, layered looks
  • Avoid: Straight up-and-down silhouettes

Inverted Triangle Styling

Goals: Balance broad shoulders, add volume to lower body

  • Tops: V-necks, scoop necks, simple designs
  • Bottoms: Wide-leg pants, full skirts, patterns
  • Dresses: A-line, full skirts, wrap styles
  • Fabrics: Lightweight fabrics for tops, structured for bottoms
  • Avoid: Puffy sleeves, embellished shoulders

Universal Styling Principles

While each body shape has specific recommendations, these principles work for everyone:

Proportion Balancing

If you're heavier on top, balance with volume on bottom, and vice versa. For example, pair a fitted top with a fuller skirt or wide-leg pants.

Vertical Lines

Vertical seams, stripes, and long accessories create an elongating effect, making you appear taller and leaner.

Strategic Color Placement

Darker colors minimize areas, while lighter colors draw attention. Use this to balance your proportions.

Proper Fit

Clothes that fit well (not too tight or too loose) flatter all body types. Tailoring can make inexpensive clothes look expensive.

Common Dressing Mistakes by Body Shape

Apple Shapes

  • Wearing tops that are too tight around the midsection
  • Choosing bulky fabrics that add volume
  • Neglecting to define the waist

Pear Shapes

  • Wearing tops that are too simple
  • Choosing bottoms with excessive detailing
  • Wearing skirts that are too short

Hourglass Shapes

  • Hiding curves in baggy clothing
  • Wearing shapeless dresses
  • Choosing stiff fabrics that don't drape

Rectangle Shapes

  • Wearing straight silhouettes exclusively
  • Avoiding belts and waist definition
  • Choosing flat, unstructured fabrics

Inverted Triangles

  • Adding shoulder padding
  • Wearing tops with busy patterns
  • Choosing skinny pants exclusively

Special Considerations

Petite Body Types

If you're under 5'4", regardless of shape:

  • Opt for vertical lines and monochromatic looks
  • Choose proportionate prints and accessories
  • Avoid overwhelming your frame with too much volume

Tall Body Types

If you're over 5'9", regardless of shape:

  • Embrace horizontal lines and color blocking
  • Look for extended lengths in sleeves and pants
  • Don't shy away from bold patterns and statement pieces

Plus Size Styling

All body shapes exist in plus sizes too:

  • Focus on fit rather than size numbers
  • Invest in quality undergarments for smooth silhouettes
  • Don't be afraid of color and pattern

Building a Flattering Wardrobe

Once you understand your body shape, build your wardrobe with these principles:

Essential Pieces for Every Shape

  • A well-fitting bra that provides proper support
  • Tailored pants that fit perfectly through the hips and thighs
  • A dress that accentuates your best features
  • A structured jacket that skims your body
  • Shapewear for special occasions

Investing in Tailoring

Even expensive clothes won't look good if they don't fit properly. Consider budgeting for alterations to:

  • Take in waists on pants and skirts
  • Shorten or lengthen sleeves and hems
  • Adjust shoulder seams on jackets

Conclusion

Understanding your body shape is not about labeling or limiting yourself—it's about learning to work with your natural proportions to create looks that make you feel confident and comfortable. While these guidelines provide a helpful starting point, remember that personal style and comfort should always come first.

The most important "rule" is to wear what makes you feel like your best self. Use these tips as tools in your style arsenal, but don't be afraid to break the "rules" when you find something that makes you feel amazing.

Want personalized styling advice for your body shape? Book a consultation with one of our expert stylists for customized recommendations.