In all my years as a stylist, I've seen firsthand how style is not just about how we look but also about how it makes us feel. Every body is like a canvas, a masterpiece waiting to be celebrated in all its uniqueness. It's the act of rejoicing over what makes you feel great and building confidence rather than trying to fit into those fashionable trends. In this guide, let's go on a journey to understand your body shape and find pieces that suit you.
Understanding Your Body Shape
Before we dive into styling tips, it’s important to understand your body shape. This knowledge can help you discover the cuts and silhouettes that flatter your figure best. While there are many body shapes, let’s break them down into five primary categories:
Hourglass
From left to right: Ashley Graham, Scarlett Johansson, Blake Lively, Sofia Vergara
You have a balanced bust and hips with a defined waist—think classic curves!
If you have...
rounded shoulders
a small waist
bust and hips that are more and less the same width
fuller thighs, bottom and hips
...you have an hourglass figure!
Pear
From left to right: Cardi B, Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce
Your hips are wider than your bust, creating a lovely feminine shape with a smaller waist.
If you have...
a smaller bust and torso
hips that are wider than your shoulders
fuller hips and/or thighs
a defined waist
...you have a pear figure!
Apple
From left to right: Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Hudson, Adele, Drew Barrymore
Your bust is larger, and you carry weight around your waist, with narrower hips.
If you have...
wider shoulders and torso
average to large bust
little to no curvature on the waist
narrow hips
slim legs
...you have an apple figure!
Rectangle
From left to right: Anne Hathaway, Kate Hudson, Cameron Diaz, Paris Hilton
Your bust, waist, and hips are fairly balanced, creating a straight silhouette.
If you have...
shoulders, waist, and hips that are around the same width
little to no curvature on the waist
small to average bust
an angular body frame
...you have a rectangle figure!
Inverted Triangle
From left to right: Naomi Campbell, Hailey Bieber, Cindy Crawford, Zendaya
You have broader shoulders and a wider bust, with narrower hips—this shape has a strong, athletic feel.
If you have...
shoulders that are wider than your hips
little to no curvature on the waist
shoulders, hips, and bottoms that are more angular than full
slim and long legs
an overall athletic physique
...you have an inverted triangle figure!
Reminder: Everyone’s Unique!
These categories are just starting points. You might find that you resonate with more than one shape, and that’s perfectly okay! The most important thing is to find styles that make you feel confident and comfortable in your skin.
Book A Free Styling Consultation!
Understanding our body and how to style it is easier said than done. It took me years of experience to be confident in my expertise. If this is something you’ve been struggling with, I’m here to help! Book a free styling consultation and we can chat about all things style and fashion.
Styling Tips for Each Body Shape
Hourglass
To accentuate those curves: focus on the waist!
From left to right: Matilda Leather Belt by B-Low The Belt, Seren Dress by Bandit and The Babe, Vintage Cream Mini Dress by Balyshop
High-waisted Belts
Highlight your waist and showcase your figure beautifully.
Plain over Printed
Don’t let prints clutter your gorgeous figure! Opt for clean cuts that accentuate your curves.
Rounded Necklines
Too high (turtleneck) or too wide (boatneck) of a neckline will add too much volume to the bust.
The perfect balance is a rounded neckline for a flattering silhouette.
Pear
To create balance and highlight your waist: highlight the upper-body!
From left to right: Enzo Knit Top by Reformation, Callen Pleated A-line Mini Skirt by A.L.C., The Collete Cropped Wide-Leg Pants by Maeve
Bright Tops
Draw the eye upwards with bright colors and eye-catching prints.
Darker Colored Bottoms
Avoid emphasizing your hips and thighs with bright colors and prints.
Wide-Leg Pants
They create a flow that balances your proportions beautifully.
Apple
To draw attention to your legs and elongate your torso: highlight the lower-body!
From left to right: Posh Darling Black Color Block Sleeveless Mini Dress by Lulus, Pleated Crepe Wide-Leg Pants by Alice + Olivia, Minnen Wrap Dress by ELK
Boxy and Loose
Opt for more flowy structured wardrobe items like an a-line dress or a flared skirt!
Pleated Pants
Create a flattering line and add height.
Wrap Dresses
These are fantastic for defining your waist and adding shape.
Rectangle
To create curves and add dimension: add volume to the upper and lower body!
From left to right: Dark Denim Puff Sleeve Jacket by Destree, Beatrix Wide Leather Belt by Haute Cuir, Loose Blouse with Pleated Cuffs by Lichi
Structured Jackets
These can add shape and create a defined waist.
Belts
Cinching at the waist can instantly transform your look.
Wide Sleeves
Create the illusion of a rounder torso with puffed or embellished sleeves.
Inverted Triangle
To balance your shoulders and hips: accentuate the lower half of the body!
From left to right: Griselda Draped Slinky Sleeveless Top by Meshki, Jersey Sablé One-Shoulder Mini Dress by Blumarine, Rhein Wool Crepe Wide-Leg Pants by Gabriela Hearst
Asymmetry
Create a flattering silhouette with asymmetrical cuts.
Draping
Soften your upper body with soft fabrics that drape across the torso.
Flared Pants
These create a lovely flow and balance your proportions.
Embrace Your Individuality
Understanding your body shape is just the beginning. What truly matters is how you express yourself through fashion. Don’t be afraid to play around with trends, colors, and patterns until you find what resonates with you. Fashion should reflect who you are—your personality, your dreams, your quirks. Whether you lean towards classic elegance or bold, adventurous styles, let your wardrobe tell your story. Book a styling session today and discover your unique style!
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