What is Body Shape?
Body shape refers to the overall silhouette of your body and is determined by the distribution of fat and muscle around certain areas. There are five common body shapes:
- Pear
- Hourglass
- Apple
- Rectangle
- Inverted Triangle
How to Determine Your Body Shape?
To determine your body shape, stand in front of a mirror and observe your proportions. Pay attention to the width of your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips. Take measurements if needed to better understand your proportions.
Pear Body Shape
A pear-shaped body has hips and thighs wider than the shoulders and bust. If you have a pear body shape, you’ll want to draw attention to your upper body while minimizing the focus on your lower half. A-line skirts, dresses with defined waists, and tops with embellishments or patterns are great choices.
Hourglass Body Shape
An hourglass body shape is characterized by a well-defined waist and balanced proportions between the bust and hips. If you have an hourglass figure, embrace garments that accentuate your waist, such as fitted dresses, belts, and high-waisted bottoms. Wrap dresses and tops will also flatter your curves.
Apple Body Shape
If you have an apple-shaped body, your midsection is fuller with a less defined waistline. The goal for apple-shaped bodies is to create a more balanced silhouette by emphasizing your strengths. Empire waistlines, flowy tops, and A-line dresses are great options to flatter your figure. Avoid tight-fitting clothes around the waist.
Rectangle Body Shape
Rectangular body shapes have a similar width for shoulders, waist, and hips, giving a more athletic look. The aim for rectangular body shapes is to create the illusion of curves and add definition to the waistline. Look for clothes with ruffles, peplums, or belts to add volume to certain areas. Wrap dresses and tops with prints also work well.
Inverted Triangle Body Shape
An inverted triangle body shape is characterized by broad shoulders and a narrower waist and hips. The objective for this body shape is to create balance by adding volume to the lower half while minimizing the upper body. Choose A-line skirts, wide-leg pants, and tops with details around the waist to achieve a more proportioned look.
Understanding your body shape is a valuable tool in selecting clothes that make you feel confident and stylish. Whether you have a pear, hourglass, apple, rectangle, or inverted triangle body shape, there are clothing options specifically tailored to flatter your figure. Embrace your unique shape, experiment with different styles, and remember to always wear what makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.