Our bodies are unique, but there are a few common body shape categories that you might fall into. Defining your body shape will assist you when it comes down to knowing how to dress for your body shape.

While – of course – you’re free to wear whatever makes you feel happy and comfortable, if you’re looking for some tips on how to dress specifically for your body type, read on!

What’s my body shape or type?

There are so many unique body shapes out there, but often these are rounded down into five particular categories that will be unpacked below.

Apple or round body shape

There are plenty of names for this one, but the most common are ‘round’ or ‘apple’ body shapes. Some of the defining characteristics of the apple body shape is a larger upper body compared with the lower body with no defined waistline. It also features things like:

• Broader shoulders
• Bigger bust lines
• A feeling of weight around the midriff

Pear or triangle body shape

Sticking with the fruit theme is the ‘pear’ or ‘triangle’ body shape. This body type is commonly identified by a wider lower half. Other characteristics of the pear or triangle shape include:

• A wider waist than bust
• Fuller hips
• Narrow shoulders (in comparison to your hips)
• A fuller rear

Inverted triangle or athletic body shape

The ‘inverted triangle’ or ‘athletic’ body shape refers to those with shoulders that are broader than their hips. Other ways to determine if this is your body shape has:

• Minimal definition between your waist and hips
• A larger top half
• Generally well-proportioned aspects

Rectangular body shape

A ‘rectangular’ body shape is relatively easy to identify. This shape is usually well-balanced from the shoulders to the hips, with not much definition in your silhouette. Key identifiers of this shape include:

• Being the same size in tops and bottoms
• Absence of an overly defined waist
• Fairly even distribution of weight

Hourglass body shape

Lastly is the ‘hourglass’ body shape. This body shape is defined by an equal size in hips and shoulders with a well-defined waist. Other identifying factors of an hourglass shape include:

• A ‘curvy’ body
• A well-defined waist
• Roughly even bust and hip measurements

How do I dress for my body shape?

Now that you’ve identified which body type you are, it’s time to learn how to dress for your body shape. Here are some helpful tips for body shape dressing using the above-mentioned body types.

Round or apple body shape

For those with an apple body shape, there are a few things to look for when dressing to suit this body type. The pieces that look great on you include:

• Breezy A-line silhouettes
• Flowy tunics
• Relaxed, boyfriend button-ups
• V-neck anything

Believe it or not, where the hem of your jacket sits can make a huge difference. Apple body types look great in any vest, coat or jacket that hits the hip or upper thigh, so opting for A-line coats or straight, knee-length style trenches work the best.

Pear or triangle body shape

Drawing attention to your upper half works wonders for pear body types. By choosing top-half prints or brighter colours, you can keep people’s eyes focused upward! Some other shapes that suit this body type include:

• Plunging V-necks in any silhouette
• Cowl necks
• Bell-sleeves
• Scoop necks

When it comes to skirts and dresses, the world is your oyster! Dropped and embellished necklines, open backs, dramatic sleeves, and belted styles will all play up your slender upper body. A-line styles in both skirts and dresses also look great.

Inverted triangle body shape

Similar to the apple shape, the inverted triangle looks great wearing A-line silhouettes and flowy tunics. Try pairing skinny jeans and leggings with a breezy tunic, oversized sweater or generous button-down to accentuate your figure. Other styles that look great include:

• Flares with heels
• Bootcut or flared pants with flats
• Wrap dresses
• Strapless pieces

Rectangular or athletic body shape

Rectangular or athletic body shapes are fantastic to play around with. Some key ‘power pieces’ for this body type include:

• Halter styles
• Racerback styles
• Scoop and round necklines
• Strapless dresses and tops

If you’re on the curvy side of athletic, play up what you love (this may be your shoulders, collarbone and/or arms). If these are something you’d prefer to downplay, choose a narrower neckline such as a crew, cowl or V-neck.

Hourglass body shape

Dressing an hourglass body shape means defining your waist and celebrating your curves. Some of the best pieces for your upper half include:

• Form-fitting jersey knits
• Wrap tops
• Peplum blouses
• Tailored tops with ample room in the chest
• Anything with a V-neck, round neck, or boat neck

Dresses and skirts that suit this body shape include iconic silhouette shapes like wrap dresses or fit and flare styles. Be careful when wearing flowy styles, or consider wearing a belt, so your waist doesn’t get lost. Stretchy skinny jeans and leggings are great ways to show off the curves of your hips, and fitted jumpsuits can highlight your hourglass figure.

Tips for body shape dressing

When it comes to body shape dressing, there are no set rules saying you have to follow what’s recommended for your body. If you love wearing something (even if it’s not ‘advised’ for your body shape), go for it! There is nothing more important than feeling comfortable and confident in an outfit. Similarly, if a piece is recommended for your body type that doesn’t feel quite right, don’t feel the need to purchase it. If you’re purchasing new items to suit your body, only invest in pieces that make you feel good and that you’ll wear. Likewise, don’t buy something that doesn’t fit in the hope that it will down the track.

There are so many ‘rules' floating around the internet when it comes to learning how to dress for your body type. As we’ve previously mentioned, the most important rule is that you’re happy, confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing. Head into your closest Biz Corporates stockist today to find your new favourite pieces.