Every body and everybody is different. But style woes remain common. Identifying your body type is the first step you can take to finding yourself that perfectly flattering dress. The definition of style has been changing with time and most of the time it’s not about wearing what’s the trendiest but something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Shopping while knowing which particular outfits can highlight the best features of your beautiful body, can elevate your wardrobe to a whole new level.
TC46 was in conversation with Rashi Menda, founder and CEO of IS.U, a fashion apparel brand that stands for body positivity and being comfortable in your skin. She gives desi women expert styling tips on what to wear based on certain body types.
A Guide To The Perfect Fit By IS.U & The Channel 46 Based On Body Type
Rooted in with the focus to break the unrealistic standards set by society, every clothing that is brought to life by IS.U is styled in a way that fits effortlessly on the unique Indian body type like a glove, best suited for Indian weather.
1. Apple Or Inverted Triangle
You will fall under this apple-shaped figure if you have a heavier upper body in comparison to your lower part of the body. You have broad shoulders, bigger bust line, and that’s why it feels like the weight gathers around the midriff.
Dos & Don’ts For This Body Type
- Dos: A-line or empire cuts are ideal for you. Wear printed dresses or patterned jackets that add a layer to shift the focus. Monochrome looks, dark colours, and flowy tops will help. Flared bottoms & palazzos create balance and that’s what you need. Make high-waist bottoms your best friend!
- Don’ts: Avoid bodycon dresses or tops with skinny jeans; this will make it more visible.
2. Triangle Or Pear-Shaped
The advantage of this body type is that you can create an illusion of an hourglass figure if styled correctly. Your shoulders are narrow and your hips are wide. All you must do is to strike a balance. Wear outfits that flaunt your lower body. Remember if you are a pear naturally, your body type is a rage already. Thanks to Kim Kardashian & others.
Dos & Don’ts For This Body Type
- Dos: Wide-legged pants, A-line skirts with ruffle tops are your best friends. Skinny jeans with loose or structured tops will help you create an hourglass illusion. Broaden your shoulders by adding statement sleeves.
- Don’ts: Steer clear from fitted tops and wide-leg pants together
Got a simple tank top? Style it! Here are 3 easy ways to do so.
3. Hourglass
Women who have an hourglass figure are the most well-balanced body type with a defined waistline. This body type has a proportionate top and bottom part.
Dos & Don’ts For This Body Type
- Dos: Choose dresses that sit at the right curves for you and follow the outline of these curves. Make the most of your body type as almost everything looks good on you. Bodycon & A-line dresses, V neck or plunge necklines and sweetheart will help you accentuate your upper body. Waistbelts are your go-to accessories to cinch and flaunt that inner curve.
- Don’ts- Do not pair loose tops & bottoms together or what’s the point of owning an hourglass!
4. Straight/Rectangle/Athletic
The rectangle-shaped body is usually well balanced from the shoulders to the hips. So, there is not too much of a definition to their silhouette, and it’s fairly straight.
Dos & Don’ts For This Body Type
- Dos: If you have this body type then you are hourglass minus the defined waistline. Hence, you must accentuate your arms and legs. Choose A-line skirts, ruffled and layered tops. Dresses that add definition to your bottom. Sleeveless, strapless and sweetheart lines are your thing. Blazers, long jackets and capes add the much-needed drama here.
- Don’ts: Avoid bodycon dresses that do not help with enhancing your waistline.
5. Skinny
If you are petite or skinny, the chances are that you have a rectangular body shape, which means that your upper body is almost equal to your lower body and has very slight or no definition on the waistline. Dress to highlight your waistline to add a curve illusion. Experiment as much as you want as you have nothing to lose.
Dos & Don’ts For This Body Type
- Dos: Invest in high waist baggy jeans & wide-leg bottoms that will create volume on your lower body. Crop tops highlight your waistline. A simple round collar or halter neck works the best for you. Scoop & sweetheart necklines create structure around your upper body. White shirts are a no-brainer tucked in with baggy jeans. A-line dresses are your go-to cut.
- Don’ts: Avoid bodycon dresses that do not help to enhance your silhouette.
Weight, body shape, chafing thighs, stretch marks, tummy rolls and so on doesn’t define your worth and shouldn’t be valued over your being. Style is all about being comfortable in your own skin and accepting that you’re good enough for your own self. While these are just guidelines to help you through, there is no cold set rule that you need to apply every time you dress up. Dress up because you love yourself since life is too short to let your mind control your body!
