Dressing to flatter your body shape is key to enhancing your best features and feeling confident in any outfit. Everyone has a unique body, but there are general guidelines that can help you accentuate your assets and create a balanced, harmonious silhouette. This guide breaks down tips and tricks for dressing according to different body types, with suggestions for international online brands to explore when updating your wardrobe.
1. Apple Shape
An apple-shaped body typically has broader shoulders and a fuller midsection, with narrower hips and legs. The goal when dressing is to create balance by drawing attention away from the waistline and highlighting your legs and neckline.
Tips:
- Opt for empire-waist dresses that flow over the midsection.
- V-neck tops elongate the torso and draw attention to the upper body.
- A-line skirts or dresses add balance to your shape by widening the lower half.
- Structured blazers that taper at the waist create definition.
International Brands to Shop:
- ASOS: Their curve and plus-size range has plenty of A-line dresses and v-neck tops perfect for apple shapes.
- Zara: Known for chic tailoring, Zara offers great blazers and tops that work well for apple figures.
- H&M: Affordable and versatile, H&M’s online store often features empire-waist styles and flowy tops.
2. Pear Shape
A pear-shaped body features wider hips and thighs, with a narrower upper body and defined waist. The key is to balance the top half with the lower half by drawing attention upward.
Tips:
- Wear bright or embellished tops to add volume to your shoulders and chest.
- Boat neck and off-the-shoulder tops widen the upper body.
- Choose A-line skirts and dresses that skim over the hips and thighs.
- Structured, dark-colored pants elongate the legs and minimize the hips.
International Brands to Shop:
- Mango: Known for structured pants and feminine tops, Mango is perfect for pear-shaped women.
- Revolve: Offers stylish tops with eye-catching details to balance out the lower half.
- Boohoo: Affordable with plenty of A-line skirts and flowy dresses for pear-shaped bodies.
3. Hourglass Shape
The hourglass figure is defined by a well-proportioned bust and hips with a narrower waist. The goal is to highlight your naturally balanced proportions without overwhelming the silhouette.
Tips:
- Wrap dresses and belted styles emphasize your waist.
- Fitted tops and pencil skirts work well to show off your curves.
- High-waisted jeans and trousers elongate the legs while emphasizing the waistline.
- Avoid oversized or boxy styles that hide your shape.
International Brands to Shop:
- PrettyLittleThing: Their curve range includes many bodycon dresses and wrap tops designed for hourglass figures.
- Missguided: Great for fitted and high-waisted pieces that enhance curves.
- Nordstrom: Offers a variety of brands with tailored pieces for highlighting an hourglass shape.
4. Rectangle Shape
A rectangle-shaped body has a more athletic build, with similar proportions for the shoulders, waist, and hips. The aim is to create the illusion of curves by emphasizing the waist and adding volume to both the upper and lower body.
Tips:
- Ruffle or peplum tops add volume to the bust and hips.
- Belted jackets and dresses help define the waist.
- High-waisted pants and skirts create the illusion of curves.
- Layering with cardigans or blazers can add dimension to your silhouette.
International Brands to Shop:
- Net-a-Porter: This luxury retailer has a range of high-waisted pants and tailored blazers perfect for rectangle shapes.
- Zalando: Offers a diverse range of ruffled tops and belted dresses for adding volume and waist definition.
- Forever 21: An affordable brand with trendy options for belted and layered styles.
5. Inverted Triangle Shape
An inverted triangle body type has broader shoulders and a narrower waist and hips. The key is to balance out the proportions by minimizing the upper body and accentuating the hips.
Tips:
- Wear V-necks and wrap tops to reduce the width of your shoulders.
- A-line skirts and wide-leg pants create volume around the hips.
- Dark colors on top with brighter shades on the bottom create balance.
- Avoid shoulder pads or puffy sleeves, as they can make the upper body look broader.
International Brands to Shop:
- Anthropologie: Known for its unique prints and flattering skirts, perfect for inverted triangles.
- Reformation: Great for wrap dresses and V-neck tops that flatter an inverted triangle shape.
- Urban Outfitters: Offers trendy wide-leg pants and A-line skirts to help balance out proportions.
Understanding your body type and dressing in ways that highlight your best features can dramatically elevate your style. While fashion trends come and go, dressing for your body type will always ensure that you feel confident and comfortable in your clothes. Explore the mentioned international online brands to find pieces that suit your body shape, and remember that confidence is the best accessory you can wear.
By shopping smart and sticking to these styling tips, you’ll create a wardrobe that works for you, no matter the occasion or season.
