Finding the right top that flatters your body shape is a game-changer in styling your outfits. Having that right fit makes a huge difference on how you look and boosts confidence when you step out of that door.
In this blog, we’ll help you find the perfect tops for your body shape, so you can achieve your ideal style without overspending on new clothes!
What are the most common female body shapes?
Aside from knowing your body type, one crucial thing is understanding how to play up your strengths and highlight every feature possible. If you haven’t known your body type yet, here’s a quick recap on the most common female body types.
1. Rectangle: If you’re someone who has a rectangular body shape, your bust and hip measurements are about the same and your waist aren’t much defined.
2. Inverted Triangle: This body type has broad shoulders and a bust that’s larger than hips.
3. Hourglass: The iconic hourglass figure means having shoulders, bust, and hips that are about the same with a well defined waist.
4. Pear (or Triangle) : If you have a pear or also known as triangle body shape, you’ll most likely have a fuller hips and a smaller bust.
5. Apple: The type of body shape that has a fuller midsection feature. You have a well proportioned upper body, broad shoulders, and a less defined waistline.
Styling Tips for Different Body Types
Now that you have determined your body type, let’s explore the best tops to flatter your figure and elevate your style.
1. Rectangle
If you have a rectangular body shape, defining your waist is key. Cinching at the waist helps create curves and enhances your natural silhouette.
Think of ruffled, ruched, or peplum tops that add volume and define your curves. Wrap tops and belted tops also help enhance your shape. You can also style an oversized button-down with a belt for added dimension. These tops are best paired with flared jeans or A-line skirts.
2. Inverted Triangle
Balance is key when styling an inverted triangle body shape. Make sure you wear tops that will tone down your upper body to reduce the wide appearance of the shoulders and wear bottoms that will give your lower body a fuller look.
V-necks and scoop neck tops are your best options as they draw attention downward. While flowy or A-line tops add volume to the lower body. While chiffon tops and peplum tops create a more balanced silhouette. Pair them with wide-leg trousers, or A-line skirts to enhance your shape and achieve a well-proportioned look.
3. Hourglass
Almost every top works for this shape, but remember to emphasise your natural well-defined waist. Belted tops and wrap tops will have you turning heads. Fitted turtleneck tops accentuates curves without adding bulk. Pair your fitted tops with high-waisted skirts or jeans to maintain balance and show off your curves.
4. Pear (or Triangle)
Unlike inverted triangles, your challenge when dressing pear body shape is making sure to draw the attention on your upper body. Off shoulder tops and tops with boat necklines will create balance by broadening the upper body. Bold statement accessories, like earrings or necklaces, help draw attention upward, enhancing your overall look and adding a stylish focal point.
5. Apple
Since your midsection is fuller, the key is to elongate your torso and create a balanced silhouette. Flowy tunics that drape smoothly over the stomach provide a flattering, effortless look. Wrap tops and long-sleeve styles help create the illusion of length, while empire waist tops cinch just below the bust, defining the waist without clinging to the midsection.
Does Finding the Right Top Matter?
Your body is a canvas, unique in shape and form, ready to be styled with confidence. While comfort should always come first, understanding your body type can help you choose pieces that enhance your best features and elevate your look.
Think of it like choosing the perfect lipstick shade or foundation—it’s not about rigid rules, but about finding what flatters you most. It’s not the be-all and end-all of fashion, but when you know what works for you, turning heads for all the right reasons becomes effortless.
If you’re starting to build your capsule wardrobe and finding the right tops that fit your body shape and style, browse our wide selection of tops for women for different body shapes and sizes for women over 50.