When it comes to the body, there is no one size fits all solution that truly works. Generally, women fall into four body type categories: circle, inverted triangle, hourglass and rectangle. Dressing for your body types involves choosing the right clothes that help accentuate your best features, while minimizing any perceived flaws. The goal is not to cover up your body type, but to enhance what you’ve got.
Circle
If your waist is larger than your shoulders and your hips, you may be a circle, also known as an apple body type. The major goal of dressing a circle body type is to reduce the appearance of your waist, while accentuating your shoulders and your hips.
Choose a tunic-style blouse or a shirt with an empire waist. The flowing style of these tops can camouflage a thicker waist, while showing off your thin arms. Skip the skinny jeans and instead opt for a wide-leg trouser. Wide-leg trousers help streamline your silhouette, giving your body a more even look.
Inverted Triangle
You fall into the inverted triangle body type if you have wide shoulders, narrow hips and slim legs and arms. Bust size may vary from small to large. The goal of dressing an inverted triangle body type is to accentuate the waist while creating the illusion of a curvy bottom half.
If you have a small bust, choose crew neck tops with details that accentuate your bust, such as ruffles or ruching. Scoop neck and V-neck tops work well if your bust is on the larger side. Make sure to wear a camisole under any plunging neck lines. Pair your top with straight-leg or boot-cut jeans or a classic pencil skirt, which help balance your top and bottom half.
Hourglass
An hourglass figure is characterized by a curvy, evenly proportioned body with a well-defined waist and shoulders that are even with your hips. The goal in dressing an hourglass figure is to accentuate your curves, not hide them.
V-neck or scooped neck tops help draw attention to your bust line, flattering your body. Flaunt your shape by cinching your top with a belt wrapped around your waist. Choose boot-cut pants or jeans with a slight flare. If you prefer skinny jeans, pair with them a chunky boot, which helps balance out your curves. Wrap dresses, which tie together just under the bust or right at the waist, also work well for your hourglass shape.
Rectangle
A rectangle, also referred to as the boyish, body shape is defined by a straight torso with a small bust. To make the most of your rectangle shape, choose pieces that define your waist and create curvature.
Structured jackets are a rectangle shape’s best friend. Structured jackets create a defined waistline, giving you the appearance of an hourglass figure. Wear an embellished camisole underneath your structured jacket to give your outfit some flair. Fitted jeans and A-line skirts on the bottom help create the look of curves.
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