Great question! Figuring out your body type helps you dress in a way that enhances your natural shape. Here's how to determine it:
Step 1: Take Your Measurements
Use a soft measuring tape and wear fitted clothing or just undergarments. Write down these four key numbers:
1. Shoulders: Measure around the widest part (it may help to have someone assist).
2. Bust: Around the fullest part of your bust.
3. Waist: The narrowest part, usually just above your belly button.
4. Hips: Around the fullest part of your hips and butt.
Step 2: Compare Your Measurements
Look at how the numbers relate to each other:
Hourglass: Bust and hips are nearly equal; waist is well defined (at least 8–10" smaller).
Pear: Hips are significantly larger than bust/shoulders.
Apple: Waist is larger or close to bust; slim hips and legs.
Rectangle: Bust, waist, and hips are fairly similar; little waist definition.
Inverted Triangle: Shoulders or bust are noticeably wider than hips.
Step 3: Look in the Mirror
Stand in front of a mirror and take a good look at your proportions:
Do your hips or shoulders stand out more?
Is your waist defined or more straight?
Do you carry more weight in one area?
Dressing for your body type is all about enhancing your natural proportions and feeling confident. Here's a quick guide based on common body shapes:
1. Hourglass (balanced bust and hips, defined waist)
Goal: Highlight your waist.
What to wear:
Fitted tops and dresses
Wrap dresses
High-waisted pants and skirts
Belts to accentuate the waist
2. Pear (wider hips, smaller upper body)
Goal: Balance proportions by drawing attention upward.
What to wear:
Structured or embellished tops
Off-the-shoulder or boat necklines
A-line skirts and wide-leg pants
Jackets that hit at the waist
3. Apple (wider midsection, slimmer legs)
Goal: Elongate your torso and show off legs.
What to wear:
V-neck or scoop-neck tops
Empire waist dresses
Straight-leg or flared jeans
Tunics and flowy tops
4. Rectangle (straight shape, few curves)
Goal: Create curves and define the waist.
What to wear:
Peplum tops
Belted dresses and jackets
Ruffles and details on top or bottom
Layering to add dimensions
5. Inverted Triangle (broad shoulders, narrow hips)
Goal: Soften shoulders and add volume below.
What to wear:
V-necks and scoop necks
Flared or wide-leg pants
A-line skirts
Minimal shoulder embellishment
0 Comments