How to Determine Your Body Shape: The Complete Guide (2026)

We've all been there—trying on a dress that looked perfect on the mannequin (or influential TikToker) but just doesn't sit right on us. It's not you, and it's not the dress. It's the fit. Understanding your body shape is the cheat code to looking polished and confident in everything you wear.

What Is Body Shape?

Body shape is determined by the proportions of your bone structure and muscle/fat distribution. It has nothing to do with weight or height. A size 2 and a size 22 can have the exact same body shape (e.g., Hourglass). It is all about the relationship between your bust, waist, and hips.

The 5 Main Body Shapes

• •**Rectangle (Straight/Athletic)**: Bust and hips are about the same width; waist is not very defined. The silhouette is fairly straight up and down.
• •**Triangle (Pear)**: Hips are wider than the bust. You likely carry weight in your hips and thighs.
• •**Inverted Triangle**: Bust and shoulders are wider than the hips. Tends to be an athletic build with broad shoulders.
• •**Hourglass**: Bust and hips are roughly the same width, with a significantly narrower, defined waist.
• •**Round (Apple)**: The midsection is the widest part of the body, often with slimmer legs.

How to Measure Yourself

Grab a cloth tape measure and stand in front of a mirror.

1. 1**Shoulders**: Measure around the very top of your shoulders (optional, but helpful for Inverted Triangle).
2. 2**Bust**: Measure around the fullest part of your chest. Keep the tape level.
3. 3**Waist**: Measure the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button.
4. 4**Hips**: Measure around the fullest part of your seat/buttocks. This is usually lower than you think!

Styling Tips by Shape

**Hourglass**: Minimize bulk. Use belts to highlight your waist. Wrap dresses are your best friend.

**Pear**: Draw attention up. Wear bright colors or patterns on top, and dark, solid colors on the bottom. Boat necklines widen the shoulders to balance the hips.

**Apple**: Elongate the torso. V-necks and empire waists work beautifully. Show off your legs with shorter skirts.

**Rectangle**: Create curves. Ruffles, peplums, and belts can create the illusion of a waist. A-line skirts add volume to the hips.

**Inverted Triangle**: Add volume to the bottom. Flared pants, A-line skirts, and printed bottoms help balance broad shoulders.

Key Takeaways

• •Body shape is about ratios, not size.
• •Accurate measurements are the foundation of good style.
• •You can be a mix of shapes (e.g., 'Hourglass-leaning Pear').
• •Dress to balance your proportions, highlighting your favorite features.