How To Dress For Your Body Type
With trends changing daily, it can be quite difficult to find the perfect clothes that look great, while at the same time being able to compliment your body just right. Knowing your body type and which clothing works best for you allows you to shop for clothes more easily, and it just relieves a lot of stress for you in general. If you have no idea where to start, that is perfectly fine, there are a number of resources available, one great resource that I found was ShopYourShape.com.
One size that everyone should shy away from is the ‘One Size Fits All’ size. Having something that is ‘One Size Fits All’ does not necessarily mean that it compliments/fits every aspect of you, most clothing with this sizing primary function is to simply fit in general, not fit your shape or compliment it for that matter.
YouBeauty’s Style Expert, celebrity stylist Sam Saboura states: “You can change your clothing to have a positive effect on your body…You want to contrast what your body is telling you. If your body is soft, add structure; if it’s angular, add softness. The whole idea is to create balance.”
Consider incorporating knee length dresses into your wardrobe—a versatile option that suits various body shapes while maintaining a sense of modesty and grace. Knee-length dresses offer a perfect balance, providing coverage while allowing you to showcase your personal style. They are a wardrobe staple that can effortlessly transition from casual to semi-formal occasions. Whether you’re enhancing soft curves or adding structure to angular features, knee-length dresses can be tailored to complement your unique physique.
Embracing the concept of balance, as suggested by YouBeauty’s Style Expert, knee-length dresses serve as a timeless and flattering choice, ensuring you feel both confident and comfortable in every step you take.
Here are a few common different body types, their characteristics, and ways clothing best compliments your body type.
Hour Glass
Hourglass body traits: Your shoulders and hips are similar in proportion and set off by a tiny waist. With big breasts, a slim waist and curvy hips, this makes your figure the most sought after body type of feminine beauty.
- Wide belts over shirts or dresses to accentuate the waist
- Form fitting shirts
- Tailored shirts and jackets/blazers
- Wear skinny or straight leg jeans paired with a balanced top
- High-waisted skirts to show off your hips
- Skirts that will show off your great legs
Pear
Pear body traits: Your lower body is wider than your upper body — in other words, your hips are wider than your shoulders. Your bottom is rounded and your waist is well-defined.
- Experiment with light-colored tops and dark-colored bottoms to create contrast
- Boat-neck tops, wide V or U necks
- Jackets that hit right above the waist
- Flowing dresses and/or skirts
- Boot cut jeans
Inverted Triangle (Wedge)
Wedge body traits: Also known as the inverted triangle, this body shape features a broad chest and wide shoulders which are large in proportion to a narrow waist and hips.
- Wear full skirts
- Narrow V necks
- Full or ballerina type skirts
- Tops that call attention to your waistline
Rectangle
Rectangle body traits: The waist, hip and shoulder widths are similar and are usually on the slim side. Slender rectangles have an athletic look about them.
- Layer to add more dimensions
- Tops with collars, ruffles and details to flatter your chest
- A good push-up bra to lift up your chest
- Belted tops, sweaters, dresses and jackets
Apple
Apple body traits: Most of your weight accumulates above the hips, which are narrow. Your back, ribs and shoulders are broad, and you may feel wider than other body types.
- V neck tops to create the illusion of a longer torso
- Wear skirts to show off your legs and draw attention away from your midsection
- Wear shirts or dresses that flow from under your bust, expanding at the waist
- A-line and straight-cut skirts
- Tops with sleeve details such as slits and gathers to accentuate your upper body and pretty arms
