What Body Shape Are You?
Ladies, knowing your body shape is essential in helping you find the best clothing to complement your figure. To keep it simple, I use these five types: Pear, Apple, Hourglass, Rectangle, and Extra Curvy. Your primary body type may be combined with another secondary one. You will get the best results if you can become familiar with both of them or even all of them. This knowledge will pay off when you discover your own unique body type and whenever you may have to help a friend in need.
Fortunately, you don’t need be a scientist, have a high IQ, or even be sober to do this. Are you ready to get started? Begin by stripping down into your undergarments. Take a good look at yourself in a full length mirror and study your body shape. Yes, you must take a look at your backside, too.
Pear: If you’re more voluptuous on the bottom, hips, and thighs, you’re most likely a pear. Wear solid and dark colors on the bottom half of your body and the more eye catching pieces up top. This will bring the attention to your top half, making your bottom look smaller.
Apple: Do you have a little more up top and in the middle than at the bottom? Chances are you’re an apple. Opposite of the Pear, wear the solid and darker colors up top and the brighter colors and or patterns on the bottom. This will balance the overall look of your body.
The Hot Hourglass bodyshape. Hourglass: Do you have ample breasts (natural or enhanced), slimmer waist, and a well-endowed booty, as well? You’re an hourglass. To be sure you can take a measuring tape and measure your top and bottom. For example: I have a 39” bust, 28” waist, and 39½” hip. Since my waist is more than nine inches smaller than my hip and chest measurement I’m an hourglass. To get your measurements, wrap a measuring tape around your hips and bust by creating a circle (wrap around the biggest part). The most important thing you can do it show off your waist. Always best dresses and stay away from baggy shirts and pants, this will make you look heavier.
The Ravishing Rectangle bodyshape. Rectangle: Are you thin, no curves, and/or may have characteristics of an athlete? You’re a rectangle, also known as straight. (Note: this isn’t a reference to your sexual preference…just your body type!) Variations: Straight body types may also have broad shoulders and a little extra fluff on the tummy. Overall, you are proportionate with no curves. You want to create a curvier look. Wearing pastels, ruffles, and lighter colors will give you the illusion of more curves.
- Extra Curvy: If you’re a size 16 plus, we consider you extra curvy and you will benefit most by shopping in the plus size section. You can be an Extra Curvy Pear, Apple, Hourglass and so on. There are so many retailers that cater to voluptuous women. When shopping, opt for darker colors and stay away from over sized patterns. With the right cuts and style, you will look stunning!
The Extra Curvy bodyshape. We can be FAB at any size and any age!
Most people will encounter a body type change after certain life transitions such as weight loss or weight gain, pregnancy, or just simply the fabulous aging process. My goal is to give you the look of a balanced and proportionate body.
For even more style tips, you can purchase my book Ultimate Guide to Style: From Drab to Fab! .
PS. Thanks to my mom, Sharon Hagstrom, for drawing all these FAB sketches!
