FIND YOUR PROPORTIONS · 3 MIN READ

How to Dress for Your Body Shape: A Simple Visual Guide

Find easy outfit ideas for pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle and inverted-triangle proportions, plus petite and tall styling tips.

Dresses Wide-Leg Trousers Blazers Jeans

Illustrated comparison of pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle and inverted-triangle body proportions, presented in a positive and inclusive style. — Styling ideas are suggestions, not rules. Wear what feels like you.

THE QUICK VERSION

What to try

Pear: balance the silhouette with open necklines, shaped jackets and flowing trousers.
Apple: try V-neck tops, fluid dresses, open layers and easy straight-leg trousers.
Hourglass: follow your proportions with wrap dresses and softly defined waistlines.
Rectangle: create contrast with cropped jackets, belts and fuller skirts or trousers.
Inverted triangle: pair softer necklines with wide-leg trousers or A-line skirts.
Petite and tall: adjust hems, jacket lengths and outfit proportions to your height.

Start with your overall proportions

Notice how your shoulders, waist and hips relate to one another rather than trying to fit one exact category. Pear, apple, hourglass, rectangle and inverted triangle are simply useful descriptions for understanding how clothes sit and move on different frames.

Height is a separate consideration: you can be petite or tall with any body shape. The same outfit can feel completely different when its trouser hem, waist placement or jacket length is adjusted.

Understand why certain pieces work

An open neckline changes the visual balance around your shoulders, a defined waistband gives an outfit a clear midpoint, and a wide-leg trouser or A-line skirt adds movement below. Cropped jackets highlight the waist, while open longline layers create an uninterrupted vertical line.

These details are tools, not rules. Choose them when they help your clothes feel comfortable, intentional and aligned with your own style.

Build an outfit you would actually wear

Begin with one familiar piece, such as your favourite jeans, a simple dress or a trusted blazer. Add a top or layer that balances its shape, then check whether the shoes and hem work together.

Choose the individual guide closest to your proportions for practical advice on tops, trousers, skirts, dresses and complete outfit combinations.

SEE THE ADVICE IN ACTION