"How to Dress for Your Body Type"

Erica Becker

With styles rotating as fast as they can, it may be hard to keep up with the latest trends and how to style them based on your body type. We are here to take the edge off and help you determine the best way to select styles that compliment you!

Let's start by determining your body type by the dimensions of your bust, waist and hips. To be accurate, you can get a measuring tape and do this exercise with us. Often times you can eyeball and know your shape. Continue reading to learn how to measure your body. 

When measuring your body, it's best to actually have someone help you as you stand up right and face forward to get the best results. This prevents skewed measurements from poor posture. 

How to Measure Your Bust 

Your bust measurement is the circumference of the highest peak of your bust and around your back. Start by lifting your arms, holding one end of the tape in the center of your bust and feeding the tape under your arms, around your back and matching back up the the tape at the center front. 

How to Measure Your Natural Waist 

I find that the simplest way to measure your natural waist is to stand straight with both feet at an equal distance and then shift your hips to the left side of your body in a side crunch-like motion. You will see an area of your torso that dips in slightly. This area is your natural waist. Using your tape, start at the center front of your body, feed the tape around your back and back around. Record this measurement. 

How to Measure Your Hips

This measurement is taken with your feet together and wrapping the tape around the fullest part of your lower body. Start at the center front and wrap the tape around your body to meet the end of the tape with the remaining length. 

Now let's get into what these numbers mean and how we will use them to style you. Generally for these looks, we are focused on striking a balance in silhouette. 

 How to dress your body type - Voxn Clothing in Boise, Idaho

Image: Shutterstock

Apple Body Shape

What it is: Falling under this category would be having a bigger bust line and broader shoulders than the lower half of your body. When you have this body shape, a lot of your weight is concentrated above the hips. The idea is to create a balance by taking attention off of your top half and drawing it towards your legs or wearing a deep V to create an elongated illusion of your torso. 

How to style: A-line or empire cuts are ideal for you. Wear printed dresses or patterned jackets that add a layer to shift the focus. Monochrome looks, dark colors, full or 3/4th sleeves dresses and flowy tops will help. You could also wear flared bottoms; palazzos etc. to create a balance. Also, since your shoulders are broad and you might already have a bigger bustline, ensure you wear the right bra.

Hourglass Body Shape

What it is: The Hourglass is when you are naturally balanced on top and bottom and you have a well defined waistline. 

How to style: Since this body is naturally proportionate, you will want to wear dresses that show off the natural figure. Dresses that cinch at the waistline are a great bet or even a dress that hugs you natural figure and adding a dramatic draw by using a belt on your natural waistline. It's recommended to avoid styles that are over dramatic unless that is the look you are going for. 

Pear Body Shape

What it is: The Pear Body Shape is when your lower body is visually bigger than your upper body. 

How to style: The best part about this figure is that, thanks to celebrities, is a look that is extremely sought after right now. Make room for that base! Skinny jeans with loose tops really create a balance. Crops tops, sweet heart and boat necklines are great for adding definition. 

Rectangle Body Shape

What it is: This is the hourglass figure minus the chiseled waistline. Your arms and legs become your assets. 

How to style: Dresses that draw attention to you bottom or neckline are perfect styles. Add drama with a blazer, long coat or duster. 

Inverted Triangle Body Shape

What it is: The Inverted Triangle is the most athletic body shape. Your shoulders are much more broad compared to your lower half.

How to style: Pair a fitted jean or skirt with v-neck lines are great for adding an illusion of a narrow shoulder. Wear a fitted shirt with an a-line shirt.

If there is a style that makes you feel comfortable and confident, that is what really matters. If you are not use to styling based on your body type, stop in and let our expert stylists help you find pieces that will make you look and feel confident.  

Thanks for reading! 

Author: Erica Becker, Creative Director. 

Heading

Additional content