Frame it! Dressing for YOUR body type

Anyone who has ever flipped through a fashion magazine has probably read about "body types" and how to determine whether they are a "pear" or an "apple," etc. I find those articles to be almost more confusing than helpful. (Who wants to be compared to a fruit?). 

Still, there is a great benefit to knowing your body shape and how to dress for it. Before I go into the different body types and subsequent clothing suggestions, there is one universal rules that is helpful in flattering EVERY body type.

One of the most helpful rules that I follow is what I call "The Golden Mean" (pardon the use of my name)! This rule is important in helping to give you the most flattering "line" and to get you the illusion of height and therefore, a slimmer look.

This rule states that your clothing should never end at the widest part of your body. I know it sounds pretty obvious but you'd be surprised how often we overlook this "rule" and at how big of a difference this makes. You never want your tops to end at the widest part of your hips (cutting your body in half). You don't want your sleeves to hit directly at the middle of your elbow (cutting your arm in half) and you don't want your short/skirt/dress to hit at the center of your knees, (cutting your legs in half).

My fashion philosophy is that trying to squeeze people into one particular category is too limiting. I also think that people associate negative connotations with certain body types. My hope is that in reading this, you will recognize (and appreciate) the beauty of the female body (in all of it's forms). This blog is not designed to categorize you, but to help you understand what type of clothes will be the most flattering on you and your gorgeous body. Love your body and appreciate your shape - no matter what "category" it falls into!

Here are some descriptions of the different "body types" and how you can determine which category/categories that you fall into as well as some helpful tips to best accentuate your frame. You go girl!

1) Hourglass: this is the "ideal" female shape as it denotes feminine curves with a small waist.
Characteristics of an hourglass frame:
 - You wear similar sizes on top and bottom.
 - You have a clearly defined waist.
 - You have a clearly defined bust.
 - You have a curved/rounded butt.

Scarlett Johansson is a great example of an hourglass shape.

With an hourglass figure, you have what many consider the "ideal female body." In order to best show off your shape, you should wear clothes that define your waist, enhance your bust, and highlight your hips and butt. Avoid clothing that is super loose as it will not only hide your gorgeous frame, but could also add the illusion of extra weight. 

2) Triangle: this body type is gorgeous as it brags nice curves on bottom and highlights a sleek upper body. 

Characteristics of a triangle frame:

 - Fuller hips and thighs.

 - A defined waist.

 - Shoulders that are (a bit) narrower than your hips.

 - A top half that appears smaller the bottom half.

 - Muscular, athletic legs (especially thighs).

Rihanna has a beautiful, feminine frame that resembles a "triangle" body type.

With a triangle body shape, it is really important that your jackets and tops hit above the widest part of your hips and butt. Adding detail/layers to the top half of your body will help create even proportions. Avoid skinny jeans, unless tucked into boots. Flare-leg jeans or pants will give your body a gorgeous line and make you look perfectly proportioned. Avoid wearing lighter colors on the bottom half of your body. 

3) Inverted Triangle: this body type flaunts a gorgeous lower body and a curvy upper body.

Characteristics of an inverted triangle frame:

 - Straight and squared shoulder line.

 - Little definition between waist and hips.

 - Flatter hips and butt.

 - A bottom half that seems smaller than the top half. 

Teri Hatcher is a good example of an inverted triangle body type with her gorgeous and upper body and slim hips and lower body.

With an inverted triangle body type, you will want to keep the top half as simple as possible (avoid big patterns or details on the top half). Simple and uncluttered lines will look the most flattering on you. Opt for crisp and structured fabric on the top half of your body. Halter necks highlight your gorgeous shoulders. 

4) Lean Column: this body type is made for designer clothes as most clothes hang beautifully on this frame! 

Characteristics of a lean column frame:

 - Narrow shoulders and lean limbs.

 - Smaller bust

 - Small and less-defined waist.

 - Narrow hips

 - A flatter butt

Kate Beckinsale is one example of a lean column body frame. She is beautiful from top to bottom and her dress drapes beautifully on her slender figure. 

With a lean column body shape, you will do best by highlighting your hips and butt. Enhance your bust with details such as stripes or other patterns. Use layering to create interest and focus on defining your waist. Textured fabrics are the best for your frame. Avoid frilly or gathered garments as they will overwhelm your small frame. Bulky texture will also overwhelm your beautiful shape. 

5) Round: this body type is fabulous with it's great legs and voluminous female shape.

Characteristics of a round frame:

 - Rounded should line.

 - Curved back.

 - Fullness around the middle.

 - Flattish butt. 

Gorgeous Mariah Carey is a good example of a round body shape. She has such a soft, feminine look.

 With a round body shape, you have a soft, feminine shape. You may feel as though your torso is a "problem area." In order to best accentuate your frame, you will want to wear clothing that hangs from your shoulders. Avoid detailing around your mid-section - keep detailing above your bust or below your hipline. Accessories are your best friend. As far as fabrics go, soft and fluid fabrics will fit you best. Crisp or textured fabrics may cause unnecessary bulk if the item doesn't fit you perfectly. Look for gathered waistlines around the stomach and feel free to highlight those gorgeous legs!


The key to looking fabulous is to dress YOUR best. ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS choose to accentuate YOUR assets rather than longing after the body type of someone else. If you dress for your shape, you will look your absolute best - guaranteed. 

Now go out there and love your body! 

Xo, Kristin @ Kristin Golden Image Consulting

www.kristingolden.com