Knowing how to dress for your body shape is a game-changing skill when it comes to building a wardrobe you love and feel good in.
This is an essential concept because it not only makes getting dressed fun and easy but will also save you time, money, and sanity.
I created this comprehensive guide with tips and strategies for the five primary body shapes:
- Rectangle (sometimes called Straight)
- Round (also known as Apple)
- Hourglass
- Pear (also called Triangle)
- Inverted Triangle
Table of Contents
- How to Determine Your Body Shape
- Rectangle Body Shape
- Round (Apple) Body Shape
- Hourglass Body Shape
- Pear (Triangle) Body Shape
- Inverted Triangle Body Shape
- FAQ: Dressing for Your Body Type
- Final Thoughts
How to Determine Your Body Shape
Rectangle, Round, Hourglass, Pear, Inverted Triangle
Step 1: Take Your Measurements
Grab a soft measuring tape and a piece of paper to write down your measurements. Measure the following areas:
- Shoulders: Wrap the tape around the broadest part of your shoulders.
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape is snug but not tight.
- Waist: Measure the smallest part of your waist, just above your belly button.
- Hips: Start at one hip bone and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and backside.
Step 2: Use the Mathematical Formulas
Use your measurements to determine which category you fall into by plugging them into these simple formulas:
Rectangle Body Shape
Rectangle Body Shape
Your shoulders and hips are proportionate, with little definition in the waist.
Your shoulders and hips are proportionate with little definition in the waist.
Formula: Waist ÷ Shoulders or Bust = ≥ 0.75
Styling Tips for Rectangle Shapes:
- Define your waist with belts, peplum tops, and tailored jackets.
- Opt for wrap dresses, structured blazers, and high-waisted pants.
- Layering can add dimension to your silhouette.
- Try color blocking and different textures to create visual interest.
- Choose asymmetrical hemlines or ruching to enhance curves.
Famous Rectangle Body Shapes
Round (Apple) Body Shape
Round Body Shape
Your shoulders are broad and your hips are slim with no defined waist.
Your waist is wider than both your shoulders and hips.
Formula: Waist ÷ Shoulders and Bust = ≥ 1.05
Styling Tips for Round Shapes:
- Emphasize the neckline with V-necks, scoop necks, and statement jewelry.
- Choose A-line skirts, empire waist dresses, and structured blazers.
- Stick with monochromatic outfits and avoid excessive fabric around the midsection.
- Opt for draped fabrics to create movement and elongate your figure.
Famous Round Body Shapes
Hourglass Body Shape
Hourglass Body Shape
Your shoulders and hips are close to the same size and you have a defined waist.
Formula:
- Waist ÷ Shoulders or Bust = ≤ 0.75
- Waist ÷ Hips = ≤ 0.75
Styling Tips for Hourglass Shapes:
Opt for soft, stretchy fabrics that hug your curves.
Highlight your waist with belted styles, wrap dresses, and high-waisted bottoms.
Choose fitted tops, structured blazers, and body-skimming dresses.
Avoid boxy or oversized silhouettes that hide your shape.
Famous Hourglass Body Shapes
Pear (Triangle) Body Shape
Pear Body Shape
Your hips are wider than your shoulders.
Your hips are more than 5% wider than your shoulders.
Formula: Hips ÷ Shoulders or Bust = ≥ 1.05
Styling Tips for Pear Shapes:
- Add volume to the upper body with structured tops, boat necklines, and puff sleeves.
- Opt for A-line skirts, wide-leg pants, and fit-and-flare dresses.
- Avoid overly tight skirts and pants that emphasize the lower half.
Famous Pear Body Shape
Inverted Triangle Body Shape
Inverted Triangle Body Type
Your shoulders OR bust are larger than your hips.
Your shoulders or bust are more than 5% larger than your hips.
Formula: Shoulders or Bust ÷ Hips = ≥ 1.05
Styling Tips for Inverted Triangle Shapes:
- Add volume to the lower half with wide-leg pants, A-line skirts, and tiered dresses.
- Stick to minimal detailing on the upper body to avoid adding extra bulk.
- Choose darker colors for tops and lighter or printed bottoms to create balance.
Famous Inverted Triangle Body Shapes
The key to dressing an inverted triangle body shape is to add slightly more volume to your hips to balance your shoulders and bust. Along those same lines, you want to avoid adding any extra volume or width to your upper body.
FAQ: Dressing for Your Body Type
Can I Be More Than One Body Type?
Absolutely! Many women fall between two body types. If you’re in between, try a mix of styling strategies from both categories.
Does Body Shape Change Over Time?
Your bone structure determines your body shape, but weight fluctuations and aging can alter how you carry weight. Adjusting your wardrobe as your body changes will help you feel confident at every stage.
Additional Tips for All Body Shapes
- Fabric Matters: Opt for fabrics that enhance your shape.
- Proper Fit: Clothes that fit well always look better than pieces that are too tight or too loose.
- Tailoring is Your Friend: Investing in tailoring can make a huge difference.
Final Thoughts
Dressing for your body shape is about understanding proportion and balance rather than adhering to rigid rules.
By knowing your shape, you can confidently choose clothing that enhances your features and makes getting dressed easier. Experiment with different silhouettes, textures, and styles until you find what makes you feel amazing!
For more fashion advice, check out our in-depth guides on each body shape to refine your personal style even further.
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