Do you feel like your body has changed over the years?

You’re not alone. Many of us go through transformations due to life changes like menopause, weight fluctuations, or simply aging. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, "I don’t recognize my body anymore," I want you to know that you’re beautifully made, and there are styling tools that can help you love the skin you’re in—right now.

As a personal stylist and founder of Real Style for Real Life and Style Society, I help women rediscover themselves through style. Today, let’s talk about dressing for your current body shape—no restrictive rules, just empowering tools!

The Five Basic Body Shapes

Every body is unique, but for styling purposes, we often refer to five common body shapes:

1. Hourglass: Balanced shoulders and hips, defined waist, curvy thighs, and a proportionate upper and lower body.
2. Pear (Triangle): Narrower shoulders, smaller bust, defined waist, curvier hips, and legs.
3. Inverted Triangle: Broad shoulders, full bust, narrower hips, slimmer legs, and often a thicker waist.
4. Rectangle: Shoulders, bust, waist, and hips are similar in width, with a straight body line and minimal curves.
5. Apple (Diamond): Weight concentrated around the tummy, often with a fuller bust and slimmer legs.

Specialty Sizes

You can have any of these body shapes and still fall into specialty categories:

• Petite: Under 5'4"
• Tall: Over 5'7"
• Plus Size: Typically size 14 and above 

NOTE: Sizes 14 and 16 can be found in both "Misses" and "Plus" size categories. Plus sizes are designed with a more generous cut to accommodate curvier body shapes.

Styling Tools for Every Body

Here are some tips to enhance what you love and downplay areas where you want less focus. Remember—these are tools, not rules!

To Enhance (Amplify):

• Vibrant Colors & Bold Prints
• Shiny & Textured Fabrics (like metallics and sequins)
• Statement Accessories (scarves, necklaces, earrings)
• Fun Sleeve Details (ruffles or flares)
• Structured Jackets & Blazers with lapels or unique cuts

To Minimize (Downplay):

• Darker Colors & Muted Tones (think navy, olive, or burgundy)
• Structured Fabrics (blazers with good lining)
• Smaller Prints for subtle style
• Tailored Silhouettes that skim the body, not cling

Body Shape-Specific Tips

Larger Upper Half:

Do: Supportive bras, v-neck tops, a-line skirts, single-button blazers, wide-leg pants.
Avoid: Spaghetti straps, turtlenecks, tight sleeves, boxy tops.

Thicker Middle (Apple):

Do: Wrap dresses, tailored jackets, a-line skirts, open jackets over a dark column of color.
Avoid: Skinny jeans, low-rise pants, boxy tops, clingy fabrics.

Curvier Lower Half (Pear):

Do: Print or embellished tops, dark bottoms, structured jackets.
Avoid: Printed pants, bold-colored bottoms, thick fabrics.

Hourglass:

Do: Wrap dresses, belted waists, tailored garments, fit-and-flare styles.
Avoid: Shapeless tops, plunging necklines, low-rise pants, bulky knits.

Rectangle (Minimal Curves):

Do: Plunging necklines, ruffles, embellishments, strategic seams.
Avoid: Baggy clothes, boxy jackets, cropped jackets.

Bonus Tip: Get a Bra Fitting!

One of the best foundational tools for every body shape is a well-fitting bra. If it’s been more than 18 months since your last fitting, schedule one at a reputable shop. In Omaha, I highly recommend Truly U.

Final Thoughts: Tools, Not Rules

Dressing your body is about creating balance and feeling good in what you wear. Play with styles, have fun experimenting, and remember—fashion is what you make it.

Ready to feel fabulous again?

• Download My Free Quick Start Style Guide – Designed for busy women like you!
• Join Style Society – Our supportive membership with styling tips, outfit ideas, and direct access to me. Special for December 2024 only, join at the Founding Member Price!

Mark Your Calendar!
Our next Closet Detox Challenge kicks off on January 11, 2025—get on the waitlist now!

Thank you for reading, and remember—you are beautifully made.