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Forget the latest fashion trends. Personal style is all about feeling comfortable in your own skin and using your clothes to express your unique personality. We come in all different shapes and sizes, and knowing your basic body shape can help you gravitate toward clothing that accentuates your best features. Not every trend is for everyone, and that’s perfectly OK. Dressing for your body type can help you become more comfortable and confident in your clothing, and help you learn to embrace your silhouette. There’s nothing better than oozing confidence while rocking a new outfit. Here are a few tips on how to identify your figure and choose styles that are sure to look amazing on you:

1. Apple-Shaped Body Type

Women with this figure may hold a little more weight in their midsection, and that’s A-OK. If this is your body type, angular lines will look awesome on you! Wide leg pants and flowy skirts can help balance out your look. Steer clear of baggy clothing. Wrap dresses or asymmetrical hemlines are the perfect way to draw angles and lines across your body.

Look For:

  • Tops with a deep V-neck or round neck
  • Slim or straight-leg pants
  • Tops with prints or patterns
  • Structured jackets
  • Dresses or tops with ruching

Avoid:

  • Baggy tops or bottoms
  • Shirts with pockets
  • Dresses that pinch at the waist
  • Tops with ruffles

2. Pear-Shaped Body Type

For women that are narrower at the top and a little wider at the bottom, tops with a little extra flair are a fun way to express your style. Cropped jackets that stop at the waist and classic A-line skirts and dresses were practically made for you! Choose embellished tops to show off your style.

Look for:

  • Dark-colored pants
  • One-shoulder tops
  • Pants with a slight flare
  • Cardigans
  • Bright-colored shirts
  • Embellished tops

Avoid:

  • Bright denim
  • Tight shirts
  • Patterned pants
  • High-waisted pants
  • Pleated skirts

3. Hourglass-Shaped Body Type

If you have curves around your bust and hips with a smaller waistline, look for clothes that emphasize your figure! Simplicity is key. Clean, simple tops with scoop necklines are perfect for a classy look. Shirts and dresses that pinch at the waist are the perfect way to show off your natural curves.

Look for:

  • Pencil skirts
  • Off-the-shoulder tops
  • Solid colors
  • Skinny jeans
  • Fitted jackets

Avoid:

  • Pleats
  • Ruffles
  • Square-shaped tops
  • Extra fabric and draping

4. Athletic Body Type

If you want to add a few curves to your more square, athletic body, just use your clothing! If you tend to go simple, try changing it up a bit. Plain, solid-colored clothing can give off a boxy look. Rounded necklines, tanks with delicate straps and off-the-shoulder tops look great on you!

Look for:

  • Sleeveless shirts
  • Tops with ruffles
  • Wide-leg trousers
  • Dresses/tops that pinch at the waist
  • High-waisted pants
  • Lightweight fabrics such as lace or silk

Avoid:

  • Straight cuts
  • Men’s-inspired clothing

There is no “best” or “worst” body type. We are all perfectly unique and have a wide variety of style preferences. But knowing your body type can help you pinpoint your best features and learn how to dress to proudly show them off!

h/t: the doctor asky