The secret to looking dashing and stylish lies in understanding your body type and finding the appropriate attires that flatter it. You could thousands of dollars on designer dollars but you will never be elegant if the clothes are unsuitable for your body type.
Knowing how to dress for your body type improves your overall appearances since your strong assets are accentuated at the expense of your flaws which get naturally masked. A dress can look wonderful on display but look awful on you because it isn’t meant for your particular body type.
So how do your body type?
Different body types
The body types are classified according to the measurements of the shoulder, bust, waist and hips. The main categories are apple, hourglass, pear and rectangular body shapes.
Dressing apple-shaped body type
You are apple-shaped if you have broader shoulders and a wider chest which gives the impression of a bigger upper body compared to the lower body. You look like an apple since some of your body weight accumulates around your midsection.
To have a flattering look, wear clothes that take attention away from your upper body and highlights your lower body. You should wear V-line tops that give the illusion of a narrower chest and monochromatic colors.
You shouldn’t wear Body Slimming Corset since they make your top half look even bigger while narrowing your legs, which you should be flaunting.
The hourglass body is characterized by big chest, narrow waist and wide hips representing an hourglass frame or a wasp. Every aspect of the hourglass body is well-defined and you should wear clothes that flatter your frame.
Your choice of clothes should accentuate your curves and fit snugly around them. You should stock plenty of cinched dresses that flaunt the waistline. Loose fitting clothes hide your figure and you should avoid them unless you are wearing them with a belt. Even then, body contouring dresses should be a staple in your closet.
Dressing pear-shaped body type
This is the exact opposite of apple-shaped body where the lower body is heavier than the upper body. Pear body types have bigger thighs and wider hips but a comparatively smaller bust.
If you dress your pear-shaped body right, you can give the illusion of balance that is an hourglass frame. Wear fitting tops to compensate for your small shoulders and body hugging pants or dresses to highlight your strengths. You can wear whatever an hourglass can put on.
Dressing rectangular-shaped body type
This body type is symmetrical from top to bottom, looking almost athletic. Your shoulders, bust, waist and hips are of the same size.
Finding clothes that fit you is much easier but since your body lacks clear definition like that of an hourglass body, you should wear clothes that give the illusion of curves where there’s none.
Wear well-fitting dresses and accessorize with belts. The better if they are knee-length so you can show off your well-toned legs. Avoid baggy clothes and crop tops since they make you look slimmer and taller.
Tammie~
Rosie says
This is helpful! Although what I used to be, seems to keep changing, and don’t really fit any one category any more!
Dana Rodriguez says
These are great tips on how to dress to flatter your body type. Mine doesn’t really fit in any of these except close to a rectangle but it is interesting!
Julie Waldron says
Honestly, I’m not sure what body type I am. I do know that I’m afraid to try different styles, I see a cute top or shoes but I’m too scared to leave my “comfort zone”.
Donna porter says
These are some truly helpful tips. I had no idea your shape played a part in how you should dress.
shelly peterson says
These are some great tips in helping dress for your body type.
LeAnn Harbert says
These are all great tips.
Calvin says
Takes a bit of trial and error, but that’s life. Always good to find what works for you