When it comes to fashion, I haven’t always been one to follow the trends. In fact, most of the time, I don’t love what’s currently in style. For me, I tend to stick with the basics and dressing for my body type. I’m a firm believer that we should always choose what feels good for us over what’s considered #trending.
I’ve experimented with fashion quite a bit over the years and I’ve learned a lot about what works for different body types. And I mean let’s be honest, dressing for our own unique size and shape will ultimately lead to the most flattering personal style. Here are a few takeaways I’ve learned that I thought you may find helpful as you revamp your summer wardrobe.
Pear Shape
First, you may be wondering what the heck defines a pear shape. Let me break it down for you. Typically, a pear shape includes narrow shoulders with a smaller bust, a well-defined waist and full hips and thighs. The goal for a pear shape is to enhance the waistline and arms while avoiding clothing that draws attention to the hips and thighs.
I LOVE a pair of high waisted, wide leg jeans, wide V or U necklines and a sinched wide-leg jumpsuit for this body type. Additionally, I would try to stay away from baggy tops, low waisted skinny jeans and lots of patterns on the lower body.
Apple Shape
Next up is the apple shape body type. This usually means you have an average to large bust, broad shoulders, less defined waist, narrow hips and flawless legs. Your legs are your superpower. The goal as an apple girlie is to highlight those legs by creating a waistline.
A few ways to achieve that killer waistline are with knee length A-line skirts, boot cut jeans and wide necklines. One of my favorite casual date night outfits for this shape is a pair of jeans with a side tucked shirt or button down. Adversely, try to stay away from high waisted pants or skirts, boxy clothing and ruffled skirts.
Hourglass Shape
This shape is another stunner (all bodies are in my opinion). If you’re an hourglass, you probably have a full bust, well defined waist, and a curvy bottom. The goal here is to highlight those insane curves while balancing your front and back. Plus, that waistline deserves some attention, too!
For this shape, I would invest in pieces like wrap dresses, bodycon dresses, A-line skirts, and peplum tops. Try to stay away from high necklines, low rise jeans and boxy tops. Remember, it’s all about working what you’ve got.
Rectangle
Last but certainly not least, we have the rectangle shape. This typically means you have a small to average bust, straight bottom half with not many curves and perfectly aligned shoulders and hips. Like the apple shape, the goal here is to create a waistline and show off those well-defined limbs!
For this sweet body type, round, open necklines work beautifully paired with sleek skinny jeans or a pencil skirt. I also love a cut-out dress, cropped pants and hip length blazer to help achieve the waistline. Avoiding crop tops, straight dresses and slouchy jackets are best for the rectangle gal.
I believe we are all unique and I love the idea of highlighting the bodies that we were given. Sometimes trying to keep up with the trends can be frustrating when all we really need to do is dress in a way that makes us feel most confident. As you dig into your summer wardrobe, try adding a few new pieces based on your body type and see how it goes!
And I would be remiss if I didn’t add that any of these body types can rock a low maintenance, lived in color hair style. It’s my favorite look for 2023. Plus, you can add a Halo to mix it up a bit when you need a change instead of dramatically cutting or coloring each season.
I can’t wait to see your new looks come together. Remember, you’re beautiful exactly as you are.
