What Is My Body Shape?

Our relationship with our body is, to say the least, complicated. There are days when we love our bodies, and there are…long days when we don’t like anything about them. I know the goal is to make peace with who we are inside and out, but sometimes that’s more like a dream than a real possibility.

Women, in particular, can have a complex relationship with their bodies. Critical and often looking for flaws, we tend to compare ourselves with photoshopped celebrities and supermodels who have teams of people to make them look perfect for that ideal shot.

Let’s get one thing straight. There is no ideal body size, just as there is no ideal body. Everybody is different, and we believe this is the most wonderful thing about being human. Asking “what is my body shape?” isn’t about labeling yourself; it’s about getting to know your unique proportions, learning what flatters you best, and embracing the shape that’s authentically yours.

When you understand your body, you can dress in ways that feel empowering, expressive, and completely you.

Types of Body Shapes

Body shapes are usually determined by the silhouette your body has when looking at it from the front. Though weight gain or weight loss can affect the shape of your body, your body shape is primarily defined by your bone structure. So even though your weight may change over time, your overall body shape will likely remain the same. The female body types, as defined by image consultants and personal stylists, are:

• Hourglass body shape – Shoulders and hips are about the same size, with a well-defined waistline, noticeably smaller than your shoulders and hips.
• Inverted triangle body shape – Also known as V shape – broad shoulders that are wider than your waist, hips, and legs.
• Triangle – The famous pear body shape – characterized by having hips and thighs broader than your shoulders, with a relatively narrow waist.
• Rectangle body shape – Also known as the H Shape – shoulders and hips are close to the same width, resulting in a body shape resembling a column or rectangular shape.
• Apple body shape – Defined by an upper body with broad shoulders, narrow hips, and a full midsection.

How To Determine Your Body Type

Simple! You just need to get yourself a measuring tape and start measuring different parts of your body. Measure your bust by pulling the measuring tape across the fullest part of your bust and around your back. Be gentle when measuring, and don’t squash your breast.

When measuring your waist, keep an eye on the smallest part of your natural waist situated above the belly button. For your hips, measure around the largest part of your behind. If you want to measure your shoulders, you will probably need to ask for help. Get someone to measure your shoulders from the tip of one shoulder all the way around you. Make sure the measuring tape is high up around your shoulders.

Write everything down and determine the proportions. There may be some surprises. Some of you may find that you have more than one body shape. For example, you may conclude that your bust measurement indicates a pear shape while your shoulder measurement clearly states that you have an hourglass shape. And this is perfectly fine! Remember that body types are just guides! The human body expresses its form in a spectrum of beautiful shapes, don’t sweat not fitting neatly into an archetype.

Why Do You Need to Know Your Body Shape

Good question. Your body shape is definitely of no importance when it comes to self-esteem, self-love, and self-confidence. However, it may be helpful to discover your personal style and dress accordingly. Knowing your body shape will help you choose clothes that flatter and complement your body while camouflaging those areas you want no one to know about.

Bodies evolve. Body changes like weight gain, loss, or even muscle tone can shift your silhouette, so what flattered you a few years ago might feel off now. The goal isn’t to chase a label; it’s to discover your body shape, learn how to balance your proportions, and find pieces that flatter the way you move and feel today.

The Triangle Body Type

To flatter your shape, look for ways to draw the eye upward. Add detail, color, or structure to the upper body: think statement tops, puff sleeves, or bold accessories. A-line and fit-and-flare skirts work beautifully, too, since they create balance while skimming the rest of your body without clinging.

The Inverted Triangle Body Shape

A fitted jacket that flares out slightly (peplum or belted styles) helps create the illusion of curves around the hips. Try different cuts of pants. like wide-leg or bootcut, to visually even out your shape. When you dress for your body type, your goal is to soften your upper broadness and highlight your waist to flatter your figure.

The Rectangle Body Shape

The trick to flatter this unique body shape is creating gentle curves through styling. Think fit and flare dresses, belted blazers, or tops that cinch slightly at the narrowest part of your waist. Skirts or pants with pockets, ruffles, or pleats around the hips also add fullness where you want it.

The Hourglass Body Shape

The hourglass body shape is all about embracing your curves and letting your natural silhouette shine. When you dress for your body type, go for pieces that flatter your bone structure, like wrap dresses, pencil skirts, or fit-and-flare styles that hug the bust and waist before flowing out at the hips. These shapes highlight your best features without overwhelming your unique body.

What Is My Body Shape Quiz

Curious what your body shape is? Let’s find out! This quick and easy body shape quiz will help you determine your body shape, understand your body, and find clothes that fit and flatter your unique body.

Remember—every body shape is beautiful. This quiz isn’t about labels or limits. It’s simply a tool to help you identify your body, understand your shape, and discover the pieces that flatter your natural silhouette.

1. How do your shoulders compare to your hips?

A) My hips are wider than my shoulders or bust.
B) My bust and shoulders are broader than my hips.
C) They’re about the same width.
D) My body feels soft and rounded through the middle.

2. How would you describe your waistline?

A) Defined waist and clearly narrower than my hips and bust.
B) A bit undefined; it blends into the rest of the body.
C) Slightly shaped but not super defined.
D) Fuller around the middle with a fuller bust on top.

3. Where is your widest part?

A) My hips.
B) My shoulders or bust.
C) Even from bust and hip, my measurements are within a few inches.
D) My tummy area.

Results

• Mostly A’s: Triangle (Pear) Body Type
  Your hips are wider, and you have a defined waist. Try A-line skirts and styles that draw attention upward.
• Mostly B’s: Inverted Triangle Shape
  Your shoulders or bust are your widest part. Add shape below the waist to create the illusion of curves and balance your proportions.
• Mostly C’s: Rectangle Body Shape
  Your bust and hip are similar, giving you a sleek silhouette. Add shape with belts or fit-and-flare styles that flatter your body type.
• Mostly D’s: Apple Shape
  You have a fuller bust and carry volume through your middle. Choose styles that define your waist and flow easily with the rest of your body.
• If You’re Evenly Balanced Top and Bottom:
  You might have an hourglass figure! A woman with an hourglass figure usually has a defined waist, curvy hips, and balanced shoulders. You can wear just about anything, especially pieces that flatter your bust and waist, like wrap dresses or fitted blazers.

Ready to Take It Further?

Now that you’ve got a better sense of your body shape (and which styles make you feel amazing), why not take it one step further? At AC Styles, our personal stylists in Los Angeles specialize in helping you understand your body shape, refine your wardrobe, and find pieces that flatter your natural silhouette.

Because when you know how to dress for your body type, every outfit feels effortless and every look feels like you. Book your style consultation!