One of the most invaluable tools we can have in our styling arsenal is the knowledge on how to style different types of bodies. This knowledge empowers women everywhere, helping them feel more secure and confident in their outfits.

Let’s dive into the details of how you can apply these strategies to your wardrobe for a balanced and stylish look. If you put something on and it breaks all the “rules,” but makes YOU feel good — wear that out with confidence. And definitely wear whatever you want.

HOURGLASS BODY TYPE

When your hips and bust are about the same, but your waist is significantly smaller than both. Congrats you have an hourglass shape! This type of figure, which only 8% are lucky enough to possess, is best associated with natural curves and even symmetry.

Balanced Proportions:

Hips and shoulders are almost the same width.

Defined Waist: Your waist is noticeably narrower than your hips and bust. 

Full Thighs and Lower Hips:

Your lower hips are broader, and your thighs are full.

Styling Tips:

With an hourglass shape, you have so many flattering options! The key is to highlight your waist while maintaining the balance between your upper and lower body.

• Elongating Necklines: V-necks, scoop necks, and wrap-style tops are your best friends. These necklines elongate your torso and draw attention to your waist. Feel adventurous? Try a one-shoulder top paired with high-waisted bottoms for a chic look.

  
  

• High-Waisted Styles: High-waisted skirts and pants are perfect for drawing attention to your waistline. Pair them with a fitted top to maintain balance.
  
  

• Flattering Dresses: V-neck, fit-and-flare, and wrap dresses are top picks for the hourglass figure. These styles cinch at the waist and flow gracefully over your hips, accentuating your natural curves. Bodycon dresses, garments with side ruching, or gathering at the waist are also fantastic options for showing off your shape.

What to Avoid:

Steer clear of cropped pants, as they can cut off your leg line and make your proportions look uneven. 

Overly baggy clothes can hide your curves, making you appear less defined.

PEAR (TRIANGLE) BODY TYPE

A Pear body type (approximately 20% of women) is characterized by hips that are wider than the bust and shoulders, making for a beautifully curvy silhouette.

How to identify?

Broader Hips: Your hips are noticeably wider than your shoulders.

Slanted Shoulders: Your shoulders are rounded and slightly slanted.

Defined Abdomen: You have a well-defined abdomen.

Full Lower Body: Your buttocks and thighs are well-rounded and full.

Styling Tips:

• Structured Shoulders: Choose tops with shoulder pads, puffed sleeves, or boat necklines to broaden your shoulders and balance out your hips.

• A-Line Skirts: A-line skirts flare out gently from the waist, creating a balanced silhouette without adding bulk to your hips.

• Light on Top, Dark on Bottom: Wear lighter colors or patterns on your upper body, and stick to darker shades on the bottom. This draws attention upward and creates a more balanced look.

What to Avoid:

Heavy Patterns on the Bottom: If you love patterns, avoid wearing them exclusively on your bottom half, as this can make your hips appear even wider.

Narrowing Tops: Skip tops that drop your shoulders or make them appear narrower.

Tight Bottoms and Oversized Tops: Avoid tight bottoms that might emphasize your hips too much, as well as oversized tops and long jackets that can throw off your proportions.

APPLE (INVERTED TRIANGLE)

BODY TYPE

If your bust is larger than the rest of your body, your hips are narrow, and your midsection is fuller, you have what’s often referred to as an apple or inverted triangle body type found in 14% of women.

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