Waistline Emphasis

The waist is a focal point for hourglass figures, so highlighting it can enhance the overall look. Belts are a great accessory for this purpose. They can be used over dresses, tops, and even coats to cinch the waist and emphasize its narrowness.

Peplum tops and dresses are another excellent choice for accentuating this body type. The flare at the hips provided by peplum designs naturally emphasizes the waistline.

Tailored blazers and jackets with a defined waist also work well. They follow the natural curve of the body, ensuring the waist remains the highlight while maintaining a professional appearance.

Choosing garments with ruching or gathering at the waist can further draw attention to this area. These design elements create visual interest and highlight the narrowness of the waist.

Dressing the Pear Shape

The pear body type is characterized by fuller hips and thighs with narrower shoulders. To create a balanced look, it’s important to focus on enhancing the shoulders and selecting the right bottoms to complement the hips.

Balancing Hips and Shoulders

For those with a pear shape, the aim is to draw attention to the upper body. Tops with embellished details, patterns, or bright colors can be effective. Off-the-shoulder, boat neck, and wide V-neck tops help to broaden the shoulders, making them appear more in line with the hips.

Structured blazers and jackets can add volume and definition to the upper half. Shoulder pads, lightly padded, are another great tool for adding structure without going overboard. Layering with textures or adding accessories like statement necklaces can shift the focus upward.

Choosing the Right Bottoms

When selecting bottoms, the goal is to complement the hips without adding extra bulk. A-line skirts and dresses that flare out gently from the waist offer a flattering silhouette. High-waisted pants and skirts elongate the legs while cinching the waist.

Bootcut and wide-leg pants balance out fuller hips. Darker denim or pants with minimal detailing are recommended. Avoid bottoms with excessive pockets or embellishments on the hips. Fabrics should skim, not cling, highlighting the natural curves without exaggerating them.

Accentuating Inverted Triangle Bodies

To create a balanced look for an inverted triangle body, focus on softening the broad shoulders and enhancing the lower half to create proportion.

Soften Broad Shoulders

Selecting the right neckline can make a significant difference. V-necks and scoop necks help to elongate the neck and draw attention downward. Avoid high necklines and boat necks, as they can emphasize the width of the shoulders.

Another effective strategy is to choose tops with raglan or dolman sleeves. These sleeve styles provide a softer silhouette that downplays broad shoulders.

Opt for tops in darker colors, as they minimize attention to the upper body. Adding details like ruffles or embellishments to the lower part of the top can also divert focus.

Stylistic Bottom Enhancements

To balance the upper body, look for bottom pieces that add volume. Flared pants and A-line skirts are excellent choices because they create a fuller lower half. Wide-leg pants also enhance this effect by making the hips appear wider, resulting in a more proportional look.

Choose skirts and pants with patterns or bright colors to draw the eye downward. This helps to counteract the breadth of the shoulders.

High-waisted styles can elongate the legs and add to the overall balanced silhouette. Pair these with fitted tops to emphasize the waistline and highlight the curves, creating a harmonious figure.