Finding clothes that fit and flatter your body type can be a challenge. With so many different styles and trends to choose from, it’s important to know how to dress in a way that enhances your best features and minimizes your trouble areas. Whether you have an hourglass figure, pear shape, apple shape, or athletic build, there are certain tips and tricks you can use to create a wardrobe that works for you. Read on for some helpful tips for dressing for your body type.
Hourglass Figure
If you have an hourglass figure, you have a well-defined waist and your hips and bust are roughly the same width. This body type is considered the most balanced and proportionate, so you’re lucky enough to be able to pull off a wide range of styles. To highlight your curves, opt for fitted styles that accentuate your waist. A-line dresses and skirts, wrap dresses, and high-waisted pants are all great options for showcasing your hourglass shape.
When shopping for tops, look for styles that cinch in at the waist or have a peplum detail to draw attention to your curves. Avoid boxy or shapeless tops, as they can overwhelm your figure and make you look larger than you are. Empire waist tops and dresses can also be flattering for hourglass shapes, as they define the smallest part of your body and create a balanced silhouette.
Pear Shape
If you have a pear-shaped body, your hips are wider than your shoulders and you have a defined waist. To balance out your proportions, it’s best to draw attention to your upper body and shoulders while playing down your lower half. A-line skirts and dresses, wide-leg pants, and bootcut jeans are all great options for flattering a pear shape.
When shopping for tops, look for styles that draw the eye upwards, such as off-the-shoulder tops, peplum tops, or tops with statement sleeves. Darker colors and structured fabrics can also help to slim down your hips and thighs. Avoid skinny jeans and pencil skirts, as they can accentuate your hips and make you appear bottom-heavy.
Apple Shape
If you have an apple-shaped body, you carry most of your weight around your midsection and have a fuller bust. The key to dressing for an apple shape is to create the illusion of a smaller waist while highlighting your best features. Empire waist tops and dresses, wrap tops, and tops with a V-neckline are all great options for flattering an apple shape.
When shopping for bottoms, look for styles that are high-waisted and have a bit of stretch to accommodate your midsection. A-line skirts, bootcut jeans, and wide-leg pants can all help to balance out your proportions. Avoid tight tops and bottoms, as they can create the appearance of more weight around your midsection.
Athletic Build
If you have an athletic build, you have a straight silhouette with minimal curves. The key to dressing for an athletic shape is to create the illusion of curves and add some feminine details to your wardrobe. Peplum tops, ruffled tops, and tops with a sweetheart neckline can all help to create the appearance of a more defined waist.
When shopping for bottoms, look for styles that add volume and interest to your lower half, such as A-line skirts, wide-leg pants, and flared jeans. Belted dresses and tops can also help to define your waist and create a more shapely silhouette. Avoid boxy or shapeless styles, as they can make you appear more straight-lined than you are.
No matter what body type you have, the most important thing is to wear clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. Experiment with different styles and silhouettes to see what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to embrace your unique shape. By following these tips for dressing for your body type, you can create a wardrobe that showcases your best features and makes you feel fabulous every day.
