How To Dress For Your Body Type

Perhaps it goes without saying (but we will anyway) that everyone should feel confident in what they wear. Silhouettes that complement your body shape can boost endorphins–as well as your personal style–and help to streamline your shopping (especially online) as you already have a good idea of what styles to gravitate toward.

Round body shapes, also called ‘apple’ body shapes, are identified by a fuller or wider midsection compared to your hips and legs, broad shoulders, full bust, and leaner arms and legs.

To best complement your shape, our favorite styles for apple-shaped bodies include:

• V-neck tops, empire waist dresses, A-line skirts, and structured jackets that create a defined waistline.
• Clothes in monochromatic colors or with vertical stripes to elongate your figure.

Bulky fabrics around the midsection and overly tight tops may further accentuate your apple shape, so keep these in mind when shopping and outfitting.

Pear, or triangle, body shapes are often defined by having hips wider than your shoulders, fuller thighs and buttocks, a defined waist, and smaller upper body.

To best complement your shape, our favorite styles for pear-shaped bodies include:

• Tops with volume, such as boat necks and puff sleeves, to balance proportions.
• A-line maxi skirts, fit-and-flare dresses, and wide-leg pants and jeans to flatter the lower body.

Skinny jeans or body-tight skirts may further accentuate your pear shape, so keep these mind as you shop and style.

Hourglass body shapes are often defined by having a wide bust, narrow waist, and wide hips that are in proportion to your bust.

To best complement your shape, our favorite styles for hourglass figures include:

• Wrap dresses, belted styles, and fitted tops/bodysuits to highlight curves.
• Pencil skirts, high-waisted trousers, and structured jackets.

Oversized or boxy clothing that hides the waistline may disguise your hourglass shape, so keep these in mind as you shop and style. Choose a wrap dress with a cinched belt to celebrate your midsection instead.

Inverted triangle body shapes are often defined by having broad shoulders or a broad bust line that narrows down through the hips. To best complement your shape, our favorite styles for inverted triangle-shaped bodies include:

• A-line skirts, tiered dresses, and wide-leg pants and jeans to add volume to the lower half.
• Tops with minimal detailing and darker colors to balance proportions.

Boat necks or off-the-shoulder tops may widen your upper body, so keep these in mind as you style outfits. Instead, pair a simple dark top with a printed A-line skirt for a balanced silhouette.

Regardless of body type, there a few styling tricks of the trade that will never do you wrong:

Fit Matters: Ensure your clothes fit properly by tailoring when necessary.
Play with Accessories: Use pins/brooches, belts, jewelry, and scarves to add flair and personality.
Fabric Choice: Opt for fabrics that highlight your best features (like flowing fabrics for movement, structured fabrics for polish).
Confidence is Key: Wear what makes you feel good and reflects your personal style.


Whether you prefer Preppy, Boho Chic, City Chic, Feminine outfits (or something else entirely), know that we’ve got you and are here to keep your fashion feeling FUN.

Visit our Free People blog for more styling tips. XO