Every body shape has its strengths. You just need to know how to highlight them with the right clothes, according to your body structure, your silhouette, and your curves. And this applies no matter your measurements. The key is learning how to build confidence in yourself... and how to choose cuts that suit your body type.
Knowing your body shape will help you select clothing styles that flatter your silhouette and match your style, so you can dress in a way that enhances you and move past certain insecurities.
Very concretely, it’s the best way to make the right choices, to follow fashion without getting carried away by unflattering cuts, and to avoid filling your wardrobe with unwearable pieces.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF WOMEN'S BODY SHAPES AND HOW TO DRESS THEM
Since nearly 90% of women say they don’t know how to identify their body shape for sure, ELORA is here to guide you through it.
To dress according to your body shape, start by studying your silhouette as objectively as possible, without focusing on small flaws—which, in reality, all women have.
It’s important to remember that body shape advice considers your overall silhouette, like a fashion sketch, based on your bone structure and the general look of your body, not the details of your curves or measurements. A woman with an H shape can’t and will never be an 8, a woman with an A shape is nothing like a V, and so on.
Some women change over time, or fall between two body shapes. In that case, focus on the dominant features of your silhouette and body as a whole when choosing clothes, looking at the balance between your shoulders and hips, as well as your waistline (or lack thereof).
Take the test!
Put on dark, solid, close-fitting clothes (like a bodysuit and leggings), then stand in front of a full-length mirror with a measuring tape in hand. Your measurements aren’t there to make you self-conscious, but rather to help you put some common ideas into perspective!
Look at your silhouette with kindness, appreciating the femininity it radiates. Then, see if your waist is well-defined or not, and how your shoulders and hips align with the rest of your body.
Of course, everything can be measured, but you’re not taking an exam... Remember, whether in front of the mirror or falling for the love of their life, very few women are truly satisfied with their bodies. And that’s a shame!
At ELORA, we guide you and help you appreciate your body more and understand how to enhance it, even if you feel you’re too skinny... or too curvy.
These few body shape tips are part of the expertise of the brand’s Fashion Consultant... to make your own without moderation. Enjoy yourself!
X Shape
X shapes are generally slim with shoulders and hips aligned. Their waist is particularly defined, and their silhouette is known as "hourglass".
Are you an X? You can dress however you like, following the trends... Every style suits you, you can wear anything with elegance, except for cuts that are too wide, which might feel awkward and hang off you. Teens, who sometimes struggle to embrace their feminine curves, often do this: they can get away with it, but as an adult, it’s best to avoid.
The key is to play up your natural harmony while highlighting your waist. So, go for fitted cuts and belts. For tops, go for figure-hugging styles and tailored jackets. Don’t hesitate to try high-waisted pants with a push-up effect, as well as textured pieces that show off the slimness of your legs.
Celebrity X shapes: Rihanna, Marion Cotillard
8 Shape
8 shapes have a similar body type to X shapes, with aligned hips and shoulders and a defined waist. Women with an 8 shape have more generous curves, with a fuller bust, shoulders, and hips. This lovely, curvy "pin-up" silhouette is generally seen as sexy and glamorous.
Measuring tape in hand, are you an 8? Depending on your style, sheath dresses will suit you perfectly, as will low-cut and fitted dresses.
Like X shapes, highlight your body’s natural alignment while emphasizing your waist. Day to day, slightly low-cut tops will open up your neckline and highlight your bust, while straight, high-waisted pants will show off your defined waist and legs, while smoothing your tummy. Also try belted, flowing dresses and short cuts, which will elongate your legs.
Celebrity 8 shapes: Monica Bellucci, Kim Kardashian
A Shape
A shapes—also called triangle or pyramid—have a slim upper body, with narrow shoulders and usually a small bust. Their hips flare out. It’s a very common and truly feminine silhouette!
Do you have this body type? You can focus everything on your upper body! Play with colors, patterns, and details to give more structure to your shoulders. Clothes with shoulder pads will look especially good on you, and you can easily style your outfits with trendy jackets. For pants, keep it simple...
Celebrity A shapes: Beyoncé, Shakira
V Shape
V shapes—also called inverted triangle or pyramid—have a sporty look with a broader upper body, and a defined waist. Their shoulders are square, their bust stands out, while their hips are narrow and their legs are long.
Unlike A shapes, V shapes can focus on the lower body. Choose fluid fabrics for tops, with simple shapes and colors. For pants or skirts, go for a bit of width, with patterns or colors to brighten up your look. Bootcut jeans, flared skirts and pants, and wrap dresses will especially flatter your silhouette.
Celebrity V shapes: Charlize Theron, Angelina Jolie
H Shape
The H shape, also called rectangle, is associated with models and their almost perfect measurements. It’s a tall, slender, even androgynous silhouette, with hips and shoulders aligned. H shapes are generally slim, with a small bust, flat stomach, and structured shoulders.
The ideal style for an H shape highlights the shoulders and adds volume to the hips, to define the waist and make the silhouette more glamorous. Flowing or draped tops, as well as trendy colored and printed tops, pair well with slightly flared pants or skirts.
If you love inclusive fashion, borrow a few pieces from the men’s wardrobe, especially for tops: well-cut and structured jackets, vests, or shirts!
Celebrity H shapes: Gwyneth Paltrow, Natalie Portman
O Shape
You have curves, a full bust, a waist that’s not very defined with a tummy, and shoulders aligned with your hips: you’re a classic O shape!
Instead of feeling self-conscious about your body and measurements you think are too generous, find ways to embrace trends and style tips. Listen to our advice and learn to draw attention to the highlights of your femininity, rather than obsessing over clothing sizes or trying to hide in shapeless cuts...
The best friends of O shapes (also called "apple" shapes)? Necklines and/or statement accessories at the shoulders! Low-cut tops will highlight the sensuality of your bust. For the lower body, choose fluid fabrics (not too wide) and straight cuts. If you wear a dress, pick a fitted one and layer a sleeveless cardigan or a loose jacket that falls to the hips.
Our tip: heels will elongate your silhouette, especially ankle boots, which might otherwise make you look shorter.
Celebrity O shapes: Adele, Amy Schumer
