How to Dress for Your Body Type (With Real Style Examples)
Finding clothes that actually fit and feel good can be a struggle! You buy something cute online, it looks great on the model, and then it shows up and fits weird on you. Been there!
The truth is, knowing your body type actually helps a lot. It takes a lot of the guesswork out of getting dressed and helping you choose items that flatter your amazing shape.
This guide breaks it down in a super simple way. Whether you're hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, or inverted triangle! I've got outfit tips to help you look and feel your best. Because the goal isn’t to change your body. It’s to dress the one you have and love it.
That being said, this is just a guide! If you love a piece of clothing and feel confident in it, then that's all you need to know to wear it. But if you struggle to know how to flatter your shape, you're wondering which shape you even are, or you want some new style muses shaped like you, then go ahead and check out the guide below!
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Hourglass: Show Off That Waist
If you have an hourglass shape, your bust and hips are pretty balanced, and your waist is defined. Think curves in all the right places.
Look for clothes that hug your waist. Wrap dresses, belted blazers, and high-waisted jeans are your BFFs. Try fitted tops and avoid anything too boxy.
Style inspo: Megan Thee Stallion, Lori Harvey, Sofia Richie Grainge, Ashley Graham, Kylie Jenner
Influencer to Follow: @stylebynikita_
Pear: Balance It Out
Pear-shaped girls carry more weight in their hips and thighs. Your upper body is smaller, and your waist is usually defined.
Go for tops with volume or detail to draw the eye up. Puff sleeves, ruffles, and boat necklines are all great. Stick with darker bottoms and structured pants.
Style inspo: Hailey Bieber, Normani, Camila Cabello, Jordyn Woods, Chlöe Bailey
Influencer to Follow: @sandyalamode
Apple: Create Some Shape
Apple shapes carry weight around the midsection with slimmer legs. You might not have a super defined waist, but your legs deserve the spotlight.
Choose flowy tops that skim the tummy and show off your neckline. V-necks, empire waist dresses, and tunics work really well. Keep your bottoms fitted.
Style inspo: Barbie Ferreira, Paloma Elsesser, Bebe Rexha, Aidy Bryant, Kelly Clarkson
Influencer to Follow: @balkanina
Rectangle: Add Some Curves
Rectangle shapes have similar measurements across the bust, waist, and hips. You might feel straight up and down, but the right styles add definition.
Try peplum tops, ruched dresses, and wide belts to fake a waist. You can play with layers and textures to create shape.
Style inspo: Zendaya, Kaia Gerber, Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Olivia Rodrigo
Influencer to Follow: @danielamfashion
Inverted Triangle: Soften the Shoulders
If your shoulders are broader than your hips, you're an inverted triangle. You probably have a strong upper body and slimmer hips and legs.
Go for flowy skirts, wide-leg pants, and outfits that add volume on the bottom. Keep the top simple with scoop necks or soft fabrics.
Style inspo: Dua Lipa, Florence Pugh, Sydney Sweeney, Taylor Swift, Madison Beer
Influencer to Follow: @toriacurbelo
What About Kibbe Body Types?
If you’ve ever fallen down a style rabbit hole, you’ve probably heard of Kibbe. It’s a whole different way of looking at body types. Instead of just shape, it mixes in things like bone structure, facial features, and how your body carries fabric.
There are 13 Kibbe types (like Dramatic, Romantic, Soft Natural, etc.) and each one has its own styling rules. It’s kind of a deep dive, but super fun if you love details.
I won’t get into all the types here (that’s a whole separate post on it’s own!) but if you’re curious, look it up! Tons of creators break it down with examples, quizzes, and inspo boards.
Just know: if these traditional body shapes don’t feel like they describe you, Kibbe might be the missing piece!
No matter your shape, the best outfit is the one you feel good in. These tips are here to help, not to box you in. Try different styles. Have fun with it. And remember: confidence is always the best accessory.
