All bodies are not created equal; people come in all shapes and sizes. That being said, fashion experts have come up with some general guidelines that categorize the various body types into somewhat definite groups to help us know what fits us best, and how to flatter our figures. In this article we give you a few tips on how to use clothes for your benefit.
Identify Your Body Type
The first step you want to take is to determine what body type you have, because this will dictate which styles will be flattering for you, and what to steer clear from. There are numerous resources online that teach you how to measure your body in order to know which shape category it falls under.
It’s good to know that there are four main body types; Hourglass, pear, apple and rectangle, but some expand and identify other derivatives of those as separate categories.
Choose Items that Will Flatter Your Shape
To dress for an apple body type – where your top half is larger than your bottom – opt for flared or wide pants instead of straight-leg or skinny jeans, as they will help balance out your figure.
If you have a pear-shaped body – where your lower half is wider than your upper body – go with straight-leg pants and tops that will help accentuate your shoulders.
If you have an hourglass body type – then you will want to wear clothes that cinch at your waist; another tip is to stick with fitted clothing over loose, shapeless pieces, for those won’t flatter your figure.
If your shape is more rectangular – try a racer back or strapless top; a flowy jacket; a high-rise mid-length skirt; or draped dresses that nip in at the waist. Learn more about how to dress for your body type here. and remember that you will want to read these guides well before your next shopping spree.
Celebrate Your Figure
Each body type has its perks, and you should celebrate those with love! If your body looks like an hourglass, you’re likely to describe your body as curvy. You have a well-defined waist, and your bust and hip measurements are roughly similar. It’s all about celebrating your waist and highlighting your neckline!
If you are one of those with a pear shape, meaning that your waist is larger than your bust, you are likely to have proportionately slim arms and shoulders, and tend to have wider hips. You need to play with proportions that elongate your body, and experiment with statement tops that draw the eye upward and highlight your waist, back, or neckline – so take pride in those!
If you are an apple, then you are generally well-proportioned, but you carry the most weight on your bust and mid-section, and aren’t necessarily as curvy around the hips. You will probably look your best when wearing clothing that plays up your full bust, legs and arms. Not everyone has that luxury!
As for the rectangle shapes, you may not be described as particularly curvy, and your shoulders and hips basically have similar measurements. You will also notice that your weight is pretty much evenly distributed around your entire body. You can flatter your figure the most by showing off your waist, and drawing attention to your arms and beautifully defined shoulders.
Love All Shapes
Every shape is beautiful, and the key to unleashing this beauty is by identifying your proportions, and using clothes to emphasize your best features, and conceal any details that you would like to hide. Fashion is a tool that can be used to make you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin, so use it to the max!
