Unlocking Confidence: Discovering Your Body Shape and Why It Matters
In a world that often seems obsessed with the concept of the “perfect” body, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters – self-acceptance and confidence. Your body shape is a unique and beautiful aspect of who you are, and understanding it can be a powerful tool on your journey towards self-love and empowerment.
Knowing your body shape can enhance your personal style, boost your self-esteem, and ultimately help you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of body shapes – from the classic hourglass to the athletic rectangle, and discuss which styles to try and/or avoid for each.
Join us as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning why it’s essential to find your body shape and how it can become a powerful ally in your quest for self-confidence and body positivity. Your unique shape is something to celebrate, and by the end of this post, you’ll have the knowledge and motivation to embrace it wholeheartedly.
The first step in building your wardrobe is knowing your body shape. Once we learn this we can determine which styles will match you perfectly!
Body shapes can be categorized into seven main types. These are named after the shape that most resembles how your body is built. The ratio of your body measurements to one another can then give you an idea of what body type category you fall into. From there, we can determine which styles for your body type.
How to measure for body shape/type
Shoulders: Start at the tip of one shoulder and measure in a circle all the way around to your other shoulder. Keep the measuring tape high up around your shoulders so it almost slips off. You may need to have someone help you take this measurement.
Bust: Take the measurement at the fullest point of your bust. Make sure that the tape is not too tight. You should be able to inhale and exhale freely as the measuring tape is wrapped around.
Waist: Measure your waist at the narrowest portion just above your navel.
Hips: For your hip measurement, stand up straight and wrap the tape measure around the widest part of the hips as viewed from the side.
Find your body shape using the calculator below.
What are the best styles for your Body Shape?
Inverted Triangle
People with inverted triangular body shapes have a shoulder or bust measurement that is more than 5% bigger than their hip measurement. This means that they generally have broad shoulders with a narrow waist.
- Best to Wear:
- A-line or full skirts to balance out broader shoulders.
- Wrap tops or dresses to create the illusion of a smaller waist.
- V-necklines to draw attention away from the shoulders.
- Bootcut or wide-legged pants to add volume to the lower body.
Rectangle
The rectangle body shape is also sometimes referred to as the ruler or straight body shape. Men and women with a rectangular body type have a narrower frame and may be flatter in the chest and butt. Individuals with a rectangular body shape tend to carry weight proportionately, but can also carry weight around their abdomen.
- Best to Wear:
- Structured jackets with defined shoulders to create curves.
- Peplum tops or dresses to add volume to the hips.
- Belts to cinch the waist and create definition.
- Tops with ruffles or embellishments to add dimension.
Round/Apple
Individuals with an apple shape body type have a waist measurement that is greater than their hip and bust measurements. This means that they store most of their weight in their abdomen.
- Best to Wear:
- Empire waist dresses to create definition under the bust.
- Flowy tops that drape over the midsection without clinging.
- V-necklines to elongate the torso.
- Bootcut or flared pants to balance out proportions.
Triangle/Pear
People with a pear-shaped body carry more weight in their hips and butt compared to their stomachs. Their shoulder or bust measurement is more than 5% smaller than hip measurement.
- Best to Wear:
- A-line dresses and skirts to minimize hips and thighs.
- Tops with embellishments or details around the neckline to draw attention upwards.
- Wide-legged or flared pants to balance out proportions.
- Structured jackets that hit at the waist to create definition.
Hourglass
An hourglass body shape accumulates less abdominal body fat, and the shoulder and hip measurements are within 5% of each other. This resembles the image of an hourglass. Unlike an apple or pear shape, weight is not concentrated in one area of the body. Many younger women have an hourglass-shaped body type.
- Best to Wear:
- Fitted or tailored styles that accentuate the waist, such as wrap dresses and belted tops.
- A-line or pencil skirts to highlight curves.
- V-neck tops to elongate the torso.
- Bootcut or flared pants to balance out proportions.
Top Hourglass
Individuals with a top hourglass body shape also have a narrow waist. This “top” hourglass body shape is similar to the regular hourglass, however the bust or shoulders are visibly larger than the hips.
- Best to Wear:
- Wrap tops and dresses: They highlight the waist while accommodating a larger bust.
- V-neck or scoop necklines: They draw attention to the décolletage and elongate the torso.
- Tailored jackets and blazers: They emphasize the waist and create a balanced silhouette.
- Flared or wide-legged pants: They balance out the proportions and create an hourglass shape.
Bottom Hourglass
Similar to the top hourglass, this body type has a clearly defined waist. However, the bust is smaller than the hips. In this case, the waist is at least smaller than the shoulder and hips, and the hips are larger than the bust.
- Best to Wear:
- Fitted tops with defined waistlines: They highlight the narrow waist and accentuate curves.
- High-waisted bottoms: They emphasize the waist and create a balanced silhouette.
- A-line skirts or dresses: They flare out from the waist, creating a proportionate shape.
- Crop tops: They draw attention to the narrowest part of the torso and highlight curves.
Remember, these are just guidelines, and personal style preferences should always be considered. Experimenting with different styles and silhouettes can help find what works best for each individual’s unique body shape and personal style preferences. It’s essential to feel confident and comfortable in whatever you choose to wear!
In a world inundated with ideals of the “perfect” body, it’s crucial to remember that true confidence stems from self-acceptance and understanding. Understanding your body shape is not just about fitting into societal standards; it’s about celebrating your unique identity and embracing your individuality. By embarking on this journey of self-discovery, you’ve taken a significant step towards self-acceptance and confidence.
As you navigate through the diverse spectrum of body shapes, remember that each one carries its own beauty and charm. Whether you identify as an inverted triangle, a rectangle, a round apple, a triangle pear, an hourglass, or any variation thereof, your shape is a testament to your uniqueness.
Armed with the knowledge of your body shape, you’re now equipped to curate a wardrobe that not only complements your figure but also reflects your personal style and confidence. Embrace your curves, angles, and proportions with pride, for they are what make you beautifully you.
So, as we conclude this enlightening exploration, may you carry forward the newfound understanding of your body shape with confidence and grace. Your journey towards self-confidence and body positivity is just beginning, and remember, your unique shape is something to celebrate every step of the way.
Thank you for joining us on this empowering adventure. Stay tuned for more insights and tips to help you unlock your full potential and radiate confidence from within.
Coming Soon: A deep dive into textures, fabrics and optical illusions!
