Do you know your body shape? I thought I did for years, and was never really happy with the clothing recommendations I received based on my bust, waist, and hip measurements. Then Tonya taught me to throw my bust measurement out the window, and to rely on my shoulder measurement instead. I realized that applying that to myself (and to other women) provided much more accurate and flattering results. And visually it makes sense, when you consider the proportions of a woman’s body. We’ll be discussing body shapes more in detail later, so I’ve come up with this quick guide to get you started and a few recommendations for your wardrobe. Even if you think you know your body shape, I challenge you to pull out your tape measure and double check based on this guide. The key to great style isn’t about hiding anything, it’s about enhancing what you naturally have. Every body type has unique proportions, and the best way to dress is by working with your shape, not against it. Instead of camouflaging, let’s focus on emphasizing your proportions so you can feel confident and stylish in every outfit.
Here’s how to measure:
Shoulders- Stand straight with your shoulders relaxed. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your shoulders, keeping it level across your back. It’s easiest to have someone assist you, but if you’re measuring alone, stand in front of a mirror to check the tape’s position. Record your measurement.
Waist- Locate your natural waist, which is the narrowest part of your torso (usually about an inch above your belly button). Stand straight but don’t suck in your stomach. Wrap the tape around your waist, ensuring it’s snug but not tight. Record your measurement.
Hips- Stand with your feet together. Wrap the tape around the widest part of your hips and buttocks, not just your hip bones. Ensure the tape is parallel to the ground and not dipping in the back. Record your measurement.
Identifying Your Body Shape (Note- we realize that not all women fit perfectly within these five common body shapes and we plan to dive into variations in a later post. For now choose the closest one).
Hourglass- Your hip and shoulder measurements are 2 inches or less apart, and your waist measurment is at least 8 inches smaller than your both your hip and shoulder measurements.
Triangle- Your hip measurement is more than 2 inches bigger than your shoulder measurement.
Oval-Your waist measurement is more than 2 inches bigger than either your shoulder measurement or your hip measurement.
Rectangle- Your shoulder, waist, and hip measurements are all 2 inches or less apart.
Inverted Triangle- Your shoulder measurement is more than 2 inches bigger than your hip measurement.
Now that you know your body shape, here are some recommendations to enhance (not hide) your figure:
1. Hourglass: Accentuate Your Balanced Curves
Your Strengths: Naturally balanced proportions with a defined waist.
How to Emphasize It: The goal is to highlight your waist and embrace fitted silhouettes that follow your natural curves.
Key Pieces:
Wrap dresses & belted styles draw attention to your waist in a way that enhances, not constricts.
Fitted tops & bodysuits celebrate your shape with figure-hugging pieces.
High-waisted flared jeans show off your curves while keeping the overall silhouette sleek.
Lean Into: Soft, draping fabrics that follow your body’s natural lines.
2. Triangle: Highlight the Waist & Celebrate the Hips
Your Strengths: A beautifully defined waist and shapely lower half.
How to Emphasize It: Instead of hiding your hips, draw attention to your waist and create harmony with your upper body.
Key Pieces:
A-line dresses and bias cut skirts/dresses let your hips shine while keeping a natural balance.
Fitted blouses or cropped tops draw the eye up while keeping your waistline in focus.
Straight-leg or wide-leg trousers skim over the hips and create a seamless flow.
Lean Into: Patterns and embellishments on top, boatneck and off the shoulder styles to highlight the upper body.
3. Oval: Show Off Your Legs & Create Subtle Definition
Your Strengths: A beautifully rounded torso and often stunning legs.
How to Emphasize It: Instead of concealing your middle, create definition while showcasing your best assets.
Key Pieces:
Flowy dresses with empire waists define your shape while maintaining comfort.
Structured jackets worn open add angles and structure without being restrictive.
Tailored shorts or midi skirts show off those gorgeous legs.
Lean Into: V-necks, wrap styles, and anything that visually lengthens your torso.
4. Rectangle: Create Movement & Play with Volume
Your Strengths: A sleek, proportional frame that can pull off a variety of styles.
How to Emphasize It: The goal is to create curves and depth through texture, layering, and structure.
Key Pieces:
Peplum tops & cinched waist dresses add volume where you want it.
High-waisted pants with a slight flare create movement and a balanced silhouette.
Textured or layered outfits (think ruffles, pleats, or structured blazers) add depth.
Lean Into: Playful details like belts, asymmetric cuts, and fabric layering.
5. Inverted Triangle: Balance Shoulders with Flow & Softness
Your Strengths: Strong, broad shoulders that create a striking frame.
How to Emphasize It: Instead of downplaying your shoulders, create balance by adding volume to the lower half.
Key Pieces:
Wide-leg pants & flowy skirts add movement and balance.
V-neck or scoop-neck tops open up the neckline.
Draped fabrics & wrap styles create fluidity and avoid sharp, structured lines.
Lean Into: Soft textures, deep necklines, and statement bottoms that highlight your lower body.
Dressing for your body isn’t about masking anything, it’s about amplifying your best features. Lean into styles that work with your natural proportions, rather than against them, and you’ll find yourself feeling more confident in every outfit. I’d love to know your thoughts on your body shape or recommendations in the comments.
Xo,
Courtney
The Real Chic Life 
Leave a reply to Anonymous Cancel reply