Choosing the right clothes to suit your body type can be a challenge. Will a mini dress hug your body in all the right places, or would a maxi skirt suit your shape best?

 In this blog, we’re sharing some top tips on how to dress for your shape so, whether you have an apple body, a rectangle figure, or anything in between, you'll know exactly what to wear to make you look and feel remarkable!

There are five main body shapes: apple, pear, hourglass, rectangle and inverted triangle.

Body shape is determined by bone structure and proportions, rather than weight, and you can discover yours by either looking in the mirror or by measuring the shoulders, bust, waist and hips.

If you’re not sure you see yourself as one of these body shapes - don’t worry! Many woman's bodies don't fit into one singular category, or they fall into variations (i.e. the spoon or the diamond).

This is just a rough guide to help you understand your body and how clothes might sit on your frame. After all, it’d be boring if we were all the same, right?  

What is an Apple Body Shape?

If you have an apple body shape, also known as an oval or round body shape, your body will have a beautifully rounded outline. Your bust may be larger in proportion to the rest of your body, you'll have a fuller midsection, and your hips may be narrow. 

What is a Pear Body Shape?

If you've got a pear shaped body type, your figure widens at the hips and legs while your upper body is slimmer. If your shoulders and bust are smaller than your hips, you likely have gorgeous curves and a naturally elegant waist.

What is a Rectangle Body Shape?

Ladies with rectangle body types have similar shoulder, bust, and hip widths. This creates a linear, balanced silhouette. If you've got a rectangle body shape, you'll most likely have an athletic build with a harmonious silhouette that's easy to dress.

What is an Hourglass Body Shape?

Ladies with rectangle body types have similar shoulder, bust, and hip widths. This creates a linear, balanced silhouette. If you've got a rectangle body shape, you'll most likely have an athletic build with a harmonious silhouette that's easy to dress.

What is an Inverted Triangle Body Shape?

If you've got an inverted triangle body shape, the top half of your body will have larger proportions compared to the lower half. You likely have a fuller bust and broader shoulders that create a strong, athletic upper body, narrowing elegantly down towards the hips.

To dress for an apple body shape, find clothes that define your waist and show off your curves. 

Bootcut jeans will accentuate your curves and elongate your legs. Pair some dark wash bootcuts with an elegant shirt- tucked-in to really make the most out of your apple shape. For the finishing touch, accessorise with a belt.

If you're looking for the perfect for dress for apple-shaped bodies, maxi dresses are the perfect fit. Not only are they comfortable, but they'll give more definition to your figure, which will make you look and feel incredible all day long.

Joe’s Top Tip: For a really confident look, try adding a bold pop of colour with an embroidered denim jacket.

If you have a pear shaped body, you might want to highlight your shoulders and arms to create a harmonious look.

V-neck tops and tunics will help to broaden your shoulders while avoiding adding volume to your hips. You could also consider cinching in your waist with a chunky belt to accentuate your natural curves while also highlighting your upper half.  

Searching for the perfect dress for a pear shaped body? A wrap dress is a great way to show off your waistline, while the classic A-line dress will balance out the upper body and give you a perfectly proportioned look.  

Joe’s top tip: Bold accessories such as a statement necklace and matching earrings will enhance your top half, and they'll elevate your outfit too!

You'll want to show off your enviable curves if you have an hourglass body type, so why not choose a tight-fitting denim dress that will hug your figure and define your best features.

Midi skirts paired with fitted tops are also a fantastic look for hourglass shapes. Both chic and sophisticated, it's an effortless way to showcase your frame. Take it a step further by styling this outfit with a tailored jacket. 

We know many of you are looking for the best trousers for an hourglass figure, and slim-fit jeans are a firm favourite.

Loose-fitting tops and tunics might not be the best fit, but a figure-hugging pair of jeans matched with a light blouse will be a sure winner.  

Joe’s top tip: Choose accessories that accentuate your favourite parts of your figure. Want to draw attention to your long legs? Go for a pair of pointy-toe shoes. If you’re all about that waist, try a chunky belt to give you a defined waistline. If you want to draw attention to your upper half, a snazzy pair of earrings, a stand-out scarf or even a funky hat will do the trick.  

Inverted triangle figures have typically broader shoulders and narrower hips, so it’s a great idea to show off those legs in a striking pair of moleskin trousers or a flowing boho dress.

Items like these will add volume to your lower body and balance your overall look. We can’t get enough of embroidered jeans, flared trousers and bright skirts on an inverted triangle body shape.  

You can also accentuate your upper body with luxurious layers, like popcorn shrugs or velvet kimonos.

Joe’s top tip: Whether you love wearing heels or prefer a more casual pair of trainers or pumps, a lighter colour of shoe often works best for inverted triangle figures.  

Those with a rectangle body shape may want to find clothes that flatter their balanced silhouette. Think plenty of layers and interesting details, such as embellished sleeves or ruffles. Opt for bright contrasting colours to make the most of your perfectly proportioned figure.

We love patterned dresses for rectangular body shapes. For example, you could embrace the playful Dolce Vita look with vibrant polka dots, or give your look a dash of vintage romance with a ditsy floral dress.

Try experimenting with different colours and textures to find the style that suits you best. 

Joe’s top tip: Drape a scarf around your neck or tie it at your waist to draw the eye. Printed and patterned scarves are great for adding personality and creating curves. 

Though you should always try to choose clothes that will make you look and feel fabulous, dressing for your body shape doesn't always mean picking an outfit in the  hope it might flatter your figure.

 There’s nothing more head-turning than a radiating smile and a woman who just exudes confidence. 

If you’re looking for flexible clothing choices to fit seamlessly into your capsule wardrobe, there are a range of ‘must have’ pieces that every woman should own:

A Great Pair of Jeans

Whether wide-leg trousers suit your shape or you’re all about the skinny style, a reliable pair of women's jeans is a wardrobe staple.  

A Floral Dress

Floaty floral dresses are great for those with wider hips, while an off-the-shoulder option is perfect for apple shapes! One thing’s certain - a lovely floral pattern is sure to bring effortless elegance to your style.

A Gorgeous Graphic T-Shirt

V-neck or crew neck, whatever neckline suits your figure, you should always invest in a head-turning graphic t-shirt for a casually chic weekend look.

Accessories to Match Your Style 

Adding a statement accessory is a great way to balance out any outfit. How about a chunky necklace to draw attention to your neckline, or a stunning boho bracelet if you’re going for a short-sleeved style?