How to Dress for Your Body Type: Your Ultimate Styling Guide

Why Does Body Shape Matter?

Your body shape refers to the natural balance between your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips—not your clothing size. Two people wearing the same size can have completely different shapes, which means what works for one person may not work for another.

When you dress for your body type, you create a balanced silhouette that enhances your proportions. The goal isn’t to hide your shape—it’s to celebrate it and choose clothes that make you feel confident.

How to Find Your Body Shape

To determine your body shape, you'll want to take four simple measurements using a soft measuring tape.

• Shoulders: Measure across the widest part of your shoulders.

• Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your chest.

• Waist: Find the narrowest part of your torso, usually located just above your belly button.

• Hips: Measure around the widest part of your lower body.

Once you know these measurements, compare your proportions to the five most common body types below.

The 5 Most Common Body Shapes (and What to Wear)

While every body is unique, most figures can be categorized into a few common shapes. The goal of styling is always to create a balanced silhouette and accentuate your favorite features. Our Style Experts highlight the five common body shapes and tips on how to dress for each.

1. Inverted Triangle Body Shape

For those with an inverted triangle shape, you have broader shoulders or a fuller bust with narrower hips. When styling your body type, look for clothing that draws your attention downward for a more balanced silhouette.

What Our Style Experts Suggest:

• Tops: Look for V-neck or scoop necks tops that break up the width of your shoulders. Darker colors on top are usually the most flattering.

• Bottoms: Flared skirts and wide leg pants are great choices to add volume to your lower half. Lighter colors and patterns on the bottom can help draw the eye downward.

• Dresses: Look for dresses with a fuller skirt like fit-and-flare designs or A-line.

Expert Tip | Avoid tops with heavy details, especially at the shoulders—opt for clean lines.

2. Hourglass Body Shape

An hourglass body shape is characterized by balanced proportions, where your bust and hips are about the same width and you have a well-defined waist. When styling your body shape, highlight your natural curves and emphasize your defined waist.

What Our Style Experts Suggest:

• Tops: Fitted tops, wrap tops, and blouses that cinch at the waist are perfect. V-neck or scoop necklines are flattering.

• Bottoms: High-waisted skirts and pants are ideal for highlighting your waist. Tailored trousers that follow your natural curves work beautifully.

• Dresses: Fitted dresses, wrap dresses, and tailored pieces are excellent options for showcasing your curves. Belts worn at your natural waist are your best friend!

Expert Tip | Structured pieces are essential. Avoid overly boxy or shapeless cuts.

3. Rectangle Body Shape (Also Known as Tubular)

With a rectangle body shape, your shoulders, bust, and hips are similar in width with little waist definition. When styling your body shape, look for pieces that create the illusion of curves and add volume.

What Our Style Experts Suggest:

• Tops: Find tops that add interest like peplum tops, ruffles, or embellishments. Layers are also key for adding dimension.

• Bottoms: A-line skirts, full skirts, and bootcut or flared trousers can add shape to your lower body.

• Dresses: Look for empire waist dresses or ones with ruching to help create definition.

Expert Tip | Play with patterns and textures! Ruffles, pleats, and ruching can add softness and movement.

4. Triangle Body Shape (Often Called Pear Shape)

If you have a triangle body shape, your hips are wider than your shoulders, and you have a defined waist. When styling your body, you'll want to balance the lower half by drawing the eye upward and highlighting the waist.

What Our Style Experts Suggest:

• Tops: Wear tops that add volume or detail to your shoulders like boat necks, off-the-shoulder necklines, ruffles, or puff sleeves. Lighter colors or patterns help too!

• Bottoms: Look for wide-leg or bootcut bottoms in darker, solid colors to balance your lower half. See our Denim Buying Guide for the perfect pair of jeans for your shape.

• Dresses: A-line and wrap dresses that chinch at the waist are two styles to try on.

5. Diamond or Oval Body Shape

The diamond or oval body shape is defined by a fuller midsection, often with narrower shoulders and fuller hips and thighs. When styling your body shape, it's important to draw attention upward by highlighting your shoulders.

What Our Style Experts Suggest:

• Tops: V-necklines and empire waist tops or tunics that flow over the midsection are great choices. Structured jackets or cardigans can help define the shoulder line.

• Bottoms: Straight-leg or bootcut pants are best. Avoid very tight or baggy clothing around the midsection.

• Dresses: Look for dresses with interesting necklines or sleeve details. Empire waist dresses or A-line dresses that skim over the midsection are ideal.

Styling Tips for Every Body Type

No matter your shape, these tips can make shopping easier:

✔ Focus on Fit: We all know that every brand's sizing is slightly different, so it's key to find clothes that fit well. Avoid items that are too tight or too baggy, as they can hide your natural shape.

✔ Fabric Choice: Consider how fabrics drape. Structured fabrics can add shape, while softer, flowing fabrics can skim over curves.

✔ Accessorize: Belts, scarves, and jewelry can be powerful tools to define your waist, draw attention to your neckline, or add a pop of personality.

✔ Confidence: When you feel good in your clothes, it shows!

Related Expert Style Guides

• Plus-Size Style Guide >

• How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe >

• What Color Season Are You? >

Understanding your body type makes shopping easier and more enjoyable. At SCHEELS, we offer a wide selection of women’s clothing designed to fit every shape and style. For personalized styling tips, visit your nearest SCHEELS and connect with one of our Style Experts.