How to Dress for Your Body Type

The hourglass figure is characterized by a well-defined waist, with bust and hips of similar proportion. This body type is often seen as the most balanced and curvaceous, making it a classic symbol of femininity.

1. Highlight the Waist

The key to dressing an hourglass shape is to accentuate the waist. Belted dresses, fitted tops, and high-waisted skirts are your best friends. Look for pieces that draw attention to your midsection, such as wrap dresses or tops with cinched waists.

2. Choose the Right Fabrics

Opt for fabrics that drape well and hug your curves without clinging too tightly. Stretchy materials like jersey and spandex blends can be very flattering. Avoid overly stiff fabrics that can create a boxy silhouette.

3. Balanced Proportions

Since the hourglass figure is naturally balanced, aim to maintain this proportion. Avoid overly baggy clothing that hides your shape. Instead, go for tailored pieces that fit well through the bust, waist, and hips.

4. Emphasize Your Best Features

If you want to highlight your bust, consider tops with V-necks or scoop necks. For your hips, try pencil skirts or fitted jeans that showcase your curves. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not exaggerate, your natural silhouette.

The apple body shape is defined by a fuller midsection with narrower hips and legs. This body type can benefit from clothing that elongates the torso and draws attention away from the waist.

1. Focus on the Neckline

Choose tops with V-necks, scoop necks, or off-the-shoulder styles to create a lengthening effect for your upper body. These necklines draw the eye upwards and balance the fuller midsection.

2. Structured Jackets

A well-fitted blazer or structured jacket can do wonders for an apple shape. Look for pieces with a slight nip at the waist to create the illusion of an hourglass figure. Avoid double-breasted styles that can add bulk to your midsection.

3. Play with Proportions

Opt for A-line dresses and skirts that flare out from the waist. These styles can help balance out your silhouette by adding volume to your lower half. Pairing fitted tops with wider-leg pants or flared jeans can also create a more proportionate look.

4. Emphasize Your Legs

Since apple shapes often have great legs, don't be afraid to show them off! Choose skirts and dresses that hit above the knee, and opt for fitted pants that highlight your legs. High heels can also elongate your legs and enhance your overall silhouette.

The pear shape features wider hips and thighs with a narrower waist and shoulders. The goal here is to draw attention to the upper body while balancing the lower half.

1. Highlight Your Shoulders

Tops with wide necklines, boat necks, or off-the-shoulder styles can broaden your shoulders and create balance. Look for tops with embellishments, ruffles, or bold patterns to draw the eye upwards.

2. Define Your Waist

Cinched waists are essential for pear shapes. Belted dresses, high-waisted pants, and fit-and-flare styles can emphasize your narrow waist and create an hourglass effect. Avoid low-rise pants that can make your hips appear wider.

3. A-line and Flared Bottoms

A-line skirts and dresses that skim over the hips are ideal. These styles provide room for your hips without adding extra volume. Flared or bootcut pants can also balance out wider hips and create a more proportionate look.

4. Choose the Right Fabrics

When it comes to bottoms, opt for darker colors and sturdier fabrics that can smooth out your silhouette. Avoid overly clingy materials that can highlight your hips and thighs. Instead, go for structured fabrics that provide a flattering fit.

Athletic body types are typically more straight up and down, with fewer curves. The goal is to create the illusion of curves and add softness to your frame.

1. Add Volume to Your Upper Body

Tops with ruffles, embellishments, or bold prints can add dimension to your upper body. Look for styles that add width to your shoulders and bust, such as boat necks, off-the-shoulder tops, and puff sleeves.

2. Define Your Waist

Creating a defined waist is crucial for adding curves to an athletic shape. Belted tops, wrap dresses, and high-waisted pants can help create the illusion of an hourglass figure. Peplum tops and jackets with cinched waists are also great options.

3. Choose Flattering Bottoms

To create curves, opt for bottoms that add volume to your hips. A-line skirts, flared pants, and trousers with pleats can enhance your lower body. Avoid overly tight-fitting pants that can emphasize a straight silhouette.

4. Play with Textures and Layers

Incorporate textures and layers into your outfits to add depth and interest. Layering a fitted blazer over a ruffled top, or pairing a textured skirt with a simple blouse, can create a more dynamic look. Experiment with different fabrics and patterns to find what works best for you.