How To Dress For Your Body Type {All The Juicy Style Secrets Unveiled}

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Do you know the secret to looking fabulous, stunning, and gorgeous in whatever you wear? It’s dressing for your body type!

Hey, have you ever wondered why your friend always looks amazing in the same outfit that makes you feel like a total mess? We’ve all been there, stuck in front of the mirror, unsure of what to wear, wishing we had a personal stylist.

Well, while we can’t all have a fashion expert on speed dial, there is a simple trick to boost your confidence and rock any outfit. The secret? Dressing for your unique body shape.

If there is one style hack/tip/trick that can change your fashion game entirely, this is it! By knowing how to highlight your best features and downplay any areas you’re not so crazy about, you can totally transform your look.

In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of dressing for your body shape, so you can rock every outfit with confidence. Get ready to feel fabulous!

The basics of dressing for your body type!

1. You cannot really change your body type, so embrace it as it is!

How To Dress For Your Body Type Like A Fashion Stylist (All The Juicy Style Secrets Unveiled)

Your body design largely depends on your bone structure and genetics, which is totally out of your control. So why stress it out?! Other times, extra fat tends to build up in certain areas like the hips, stomach, and chin, which also alters your body frame a little. And this is totally in your control!

And then, of course, there is pregnancy. Some women may experience weight gain after pregnancy, while others bounce back effortlessly. It’s all part of the journey.

Of course, with some strategic exercising, a healthy diet, and maybe even hormone therapy, you can shape the controllable aspects of your body. But at the end of the day, it’s all about embracing your unique beauty and working with what you’ve got, not against it!

2. Now, find out what body shape you have

If you’re here, it means you’re not quite sure about your body shape. No worries, we’ll measure it in just 2 minutes, with a little help from a measuring tape.

Remember, we gotta get it just right. A few centimeters can make a big difference, so don’t make it too loose or too tight.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Shoulder – Just like when you go to a tailor, we’ll start with measuring your shoulders. Place the tape from one end to the other and jot it down.
Bust – Time to measure that lovely bust of yours! Stand up straight and wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, bringing it back to the center. Remember, no squeezing, just a comfortable fit.
Waist – Now for that sexy waist of yours! No cheating, we want the real deal here. Stand up straight, starting below the rib cage and right above the belly button. Wrap that tape around, ending where you started.
Hips – Let’s get the full picture of those hips. Start at one point on your right hip and take the tape around your buttocks back to the starting point.

Voila! You’ve got your very own super fabulous body shape right here! Now tick the one that resonates with the numbers you’ve got!

There are 5 Major types of bodies

1. Banana or Rectangle: Almost the same overall

Did you know that over 46% of ladies worldwide rock this fabulous body shape? It’s true!

Sometimes called the banana shape, this is when your natural waist is almost the same size as your bust or hips, and your shoulders and hips have the same width, with little to no natural waistline. It’s like having a rectangle for a body but still looking stunning!

Most of your favorite supermodels fall into this category. Total babes!

2. Pear or Triangle: With a Juicier bottom

Isn’t it cute how we define body shapes with fruits? But hey, it sticks!

If your lower half is bigger and curvier than your upper half, congratulations! You’ve got a pear-shaped body. And chances are, you have a killer, well-defined waist and slim arms.

And guess what? I’m a proud pear-shaped owner too! In fact, Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Lopez, and Rihanna are all rocking the pear shape too.

3. The Lucky Hourglass: Balanced and Beautiful

This is the “ideal” standard of the ever-changing fashion experts. Although I don’t believe in ideal body types, I do think it is naturally balanced, with a perfect bust-to-hip ratio, with a slim and defined waistline.

Your shoulders and booty might be a tad bit rounded, but overall, your upper torso and legs are in perfect proportion.

4. Apple shape: Bigger top half and rounded mid-section

If your bust and mid-section are bigger than your hips, you rock the apple-shaped body type. It’s bold and beautiful!

Typically, apple-shaped bodies have broad shoulders and a slimmer lower half. From the beloved Oprah and Adele to Kate Winslet and Drew Barrymore, all rock this sassy body type!

5. Athletic or Inverted Triangle body shape

This is the one with broader shoulders and bolder top half as compared to the lower torso of the body. You’ll see that the waist is defined but not too snatched!

Priyanka Chopra and Meghan Markle are two of my absolute faves who totally slay this body shape. They know how to dress to impress!

Now that you know your body shape, let’s figure out…

how to dress for your body type

Forget your own personal style for a second because this is the absolute best way to dress your body type. If you’re totally clueless about your own style, these tips are the perfect place to begin. Get ready to rock your look!

1. Banana or Rectangle body shape

Who says straight is boring? Embrace your rectangle-shaped body and turn heads with these game-changing style tips.

1. Get the Perfect Cinch: Since your sexy body is pretty straight with no waist definition, your goal is to create the illusion of curves and give the definition it deserves. Simply cinch in your waist with a belt, try high-waisted bottoms, or rock a waistline dress.

You can also break up the length with blazers, belted jackets, and trench coats and focus on mid-length or flowy tops and dresses to give the illusion a bit more shape.

2. Pump Up the Volume: Try to add volume to your upper body with layered tops, puff sleeves, ruffled jackets, or V-neck neckline tops. Suddenly, your straight torso will be transformed into a statement-making stunner.

3. Leggy Perfection: Flaunt what you’ve got, babe. With killer legs as your secret weapon, why not show them off? Opt for short skirts, shorts, or dresses that accentuate your pins. Or, give the appearance of longer legs with some high heels or a skirt with vertical stripes (they make you look slimmer and taller).

4. Pattern Play: Use the straight lines of your shape to your advantage by experimenting with patterns and prints that add depth and shape. Go for horizontal stripes to add some width, or try out floral and geometric prints for a curvier illusion.

As for what to wear if you have a rectangle body shape, I have a complete guide, but here’s the brief –

Dresses – Fit and flare, wrap, ruched, A-line, empire waist
Jeans – Slim fit, straight-leg, wide leg, bootcut, high-waisted
Neckline – Scoop neck, V-neck, Off the shoulder, sweetheart
Skirts – Pleated, flared, detailed, mini, multi-layered
Sleeves – Cap sleeves, raglan, flutter or bell, bishop, sleeveless or strapless

Dresses to avoid- Trapeze style dresses, shapeless outfits, and anything making your bust and shoulder look straight.

2. Pear or Triangle shape

The best thing about having narrow shoulders and a juicier bottom is that it can easily mimic the coveted hourglass figure. So, how can you make the most of your pear-shaped body? Here are some tips to help you highlight your best features and achieve that balanced, curvy look.

1. Show Off Your Upper Half – Want to balance out your proportions? Emphasize your upper half! Choose tops with ruffles, lace, and frills to add volume and draw attention upward. Tops with voluminous sleeves like puff will also work the same way.

2. Rock that natural Waistline – Get a sexy illusion of an hourglass shape by highlighting the narrow waist with high-waisted skirts and pants, belts, or cinched waist dresses.

3. Be Bold with Colors and Prints – Strategically place hues and prints! Choose dark colors for your lower torso to downplay that area and make your upper body pop. Oh, you can also use bold colors, prints, and patterns to draw attention to your upper body and create a focal point.

4. Accessorize Like a Pro – Balance is everything, even with your accessories!! Say no to oversized bags and chunky jewelry that add bulk to your bottom half. Instead, opt for delicate hoop earrings or studs.

As for what to wear if you have a pear-shaped body type, I have a complete guide, but here’s the brief –

Dresses – Fit-and-flare, wrap dresses, A-line, empire waist, belted dresses
Jeans – High-waisted, straight-leg, flared, bootcut, wide-leg, and dark-wash jeans
Neckline – Cowl neck, V-neck, Off the shoulder, Bardot, Queen Anne, Square
Sleeves – Puff, padded, off the shoulder, cold shoulder, bell, sleeveless or strapless

Dresses to Avoid – Halter necklines, loose bottoms, and skin-tight tops

[ 10 Best Jeans for a Pear Shape Body ]

3. Hourglass body type

As you have a well-balanced body already, your goal is to dress in clothes that make the balance visible.

1. Flaunt that waist at every chance you get! – Opt for high-waisted jeans, wrapped dresses, or belted blouses that lure attention to your midsection in the best way possible. Throw on a skinny belt for an extra oomph and create an envy-worthy hourglass silhouette.

2. Curves on point, but not too much – You’ve got killer curves, no doubt about it! But remember, balance is key. Instead of suffocating in ultra-tight clothes, let your curves shine with grace and moderation. It can easily go from classy to vulgar with your sexy assets!

So, choose figure-flattering, structured pieces that skim your body without looking too tight or revealing.

3. Always balance your tops and bottoms – With a smaller waist and fuller upper and lower body, it’s important to find equilibrium in whatever you wear. When you add some volume to your top half with blouses featuring ruffles or frills for a stylish boost, don’t forget to add the same amount of volume to your lower torso with bootcut or flared pants!

As for what to wear if you have an hourglass body shape, I have a complete guide, but here’s the brief –

Dresses – Bodycon, sheath, bias, wrap, fit and flare, paneled waist dresses
Jeans – Bootcut, high-waisted, flared, straight-leg, and skinny jeans
Neckline – V-neck, sweetheart, square, scoop necks
Sleeves – Three-Quarter Length Sleeves, puff, off the shoulder, flutter, cap
Jackets- Cropped jackets, varsity, moto, belted, and jackets with length over the hip

Dresses to Avoid – Stay away from baggy clothes. They work wonders in killing your style statement.

[ How To Dress To Look Thinner Than You Really Are! Secret Fashion Tips ]

4. Apple body type

With an apple shape, most of the weight is concentrated above the hips, and you have a minimal waistline. So you need to wear clothes that will flaunt your legs and lay emphasis on your strength.

1. Prints and patterns? Yes, please! – Don’t be afraid to mix it up with prints and patterns. They can be your secret weapon! Just remember, smaller prints are your BFF, while horizontal stripes can be a no-no. And if you’re into bold prints, go for ones that work their magic to give you a slimmer waistline.

2. Get asymmetrical, get fabulous! – Asymmetrical tops and dresses are made for you, apple babes. They create a stunning diagonal line that slims you down instantly. Pair them with slim-fitting pants or jeans to balance out your silhouette and turn heads wherever you go.

3. Choose designs strategically – Avoid bulky designs or fabrics around your waist, stomach, and bust area. Keep things sleek and simple in the mid-torso. And don’t forget to add some flair to your lower torso whenever you can.

4. Spice it up with accessories! – Think belts that cinch your waist, long necklaces that create a gorgeous vertical line, scarves, hats, sunglasses, and trendy handbags that add that extra oomph to your look.

As for what to wear if you have an apple body shape, I have a complete guide, but here’s the brief –

Dresses – Empire-line, A-line, fit-and-flare, wrap dresses, and bias-cut styles
Jeans – Flare, wide, boyfriend, bootcut, or straight jeans
Neckline – V-neck, cowl, asymmetric, scoop, sweetheart, off-the-shoulder necks
Sleeves – 3/4th length sleeves, flutter, cuff, slit, drape, and full sleeves
Tops – Peplum tops, soft wrap, asymmetrical styles, kimono tops, tunics, and ruched tops

To balance out your silhouette, try wearing bright colors on the bottom (think reds, blues, or greens) to draw attention away from the middle of your body.

Dresses to Avoid – Stay away from skinny jeans, tight tops, and body-hugging dresses. Switch for an upper waist belt and bottoms with elastic bands.

[ 6 Best Jeans For Apple Shape Body Types ]

5. Athletic or inverted triangle shape

It is one of the most easily recognized body shapes, as an inverted triangle always comes off as strong, athletic, and upfront. Look at Priyanka Chopra, for instance!

1. Flaunt Your Figure – Rock light colors and bold prints on top to bring the attention down to your lower body. Want to amp up your curves? Add some volume to your lower half and watch heads turn.

2. Layer Like a Pro – Go for lightweight layers, like a chic vest or trendy scarf draped over your shoulder. This not only adds a touch of texture but also puts the spotlight on a defined waist, making you look effortlessly stylish.

3. Skip the Shoulder Bling – Say no to embellishments on your shoulders! Wide necklines, scarves, and shoulder pads might make you look bulky up top. Keep it sleek and streamlined with no ruffles, voluminous sleeves, or fancy designs.

As for what to wear if you have an inverted triangle body shape, I have a complete guide, but here’s the brief –

Dresses – A-lines, shift dresses, wrap, fit and flare, skater, maxi dresses
Jeans – Flare, wide, boyfriend, bootcut, or straight jeans
Neckline – V-neck, boat, halter, racer back, one-shoulder, scoop, square, off-the-shoulder necks
Sleeves – Bell, kimono, raglan, thick straps, and flutter sleeves

Dresses to Avoid– Say ‘No’ to loose-fitting dresses to keep them away from ruining your look.

Wrapping up how to dress for your body type

Knowing your body shape and dressing in a way that flatters your figure can make a world of difference in your confidence and style. By accentuating your assets, creating balance, minimizing trouble spots, and choosing the right patterns and fabrics, you can feel fabulous in every outfit.

But remember, it’s essential to embrace your unique style, so don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with fashion trends. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be one step closer to becoming your own personal stylist and feeling as fabulous as you look.