Dressing for Your Body Shape

Fabrics and Flair
Keep it simple with solid colors. Prints can disguise your figure, rather than highlight it. The same goes for fabrics. Avoid extra fabric and draping, and opt for a bit of stretch. Color looks great on your body type, but monochromatic outfits look best (think: Mad Men’s Joan Holloway). 

Courtesy of Sam Saboura

Ruler Body Shape

Best features. Slender and often athletic, your build is easy to outfit.

Common pitfalls. You have a naturally sporty look, so you may tend to choose simple, fitted cuts. “That can actually make you look boxy,” Saboura says. Instead, you want to use clothing to soften your body and create curves.  

Tops
When choosing a shirt, “avoid adding more square or straight lines,” Saboura advises. Instead, complement your natural lines with asymmetrical or rounded hemlines, and ruffle details. Halters look great on you, as do boatnecks and off-the-shoulder shirts. Since your body is naturally athletic, you’ll look more feminine in tank tops with a thin, delicate strap. The same goes for jackets and blazers: Look for soft shoulders and steer clear of boxy, cropped jackets.

Bottoms
High-waist pants look fantastic on you, as do wide leg trousers. Both add curves and volume to your lower body. “If you want to embrace a more masculine shape with a boyfriend jean, go for it,” says Saboura. “But put some drape and movement on top.” For a ladylike look, wrap dresses look great on you, since they draw angles and lines across the body.

Fabrics and Flair
Use fabric to add softness and femininity to your look. Opt for lace, silk or lightweight fabrics, especially ones with natural draping. Embellished shirts and ruffle details add softness and give your body a bit more, well, body.    

Courtesy of Sam Saboura

Inverted Triangle Body Shape

Best features. A tapered torso, trim waist and killer legs make you look confident and fit.

Common pitfalls. Your legs are typically well-sculpted, so your instinct may be to show them off with fitted leggings. That works if you’re wearing a long top (below your booty), but in general, you want to add volume to your lower half. 

Tops
You look great in cowl necks and deep V-necks that help minimize a stronger upper body. Go for simple, fuss-free shirts (no ruffles!). For feminine flair, tops with gently draped fabric or flutter sleeves add movement and softness. Embrace your inner flapper, and rock a drop-waist dress—a look that few can pull off!