What is my body type?

Lans

Hi there!

Just wanted some body type advice. I've always been confused by the different descriptions I've seen because I don't fall perfectly into any category. I'm tall and slim overall. Measurements are something like 32-26-35. Shoulders a bit wider than hips, but I definitely have hips (but not much of a butt), and quite a small chest. So I'm not sure if I'm an inverted triangle or a rectangle or what.

One issue I have is finding things that work with my both shoulders (which are more square than really huge) and small bust. Advice on necklines would be particularly helpful. Should I try to avoid all low cut tops, including tank tops and camis?

Thanks a ton,
Lans

15 years ago

Body Type

12 replies

Latest reply was from Lans

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

If you can post a full body shot in fitted clothes, we can help you determine your shape and make specific advice.

15 years ago

Kristine

Veteran

A photo would be helpful, but my first guess would be rectangle. That's my body shape too. I believe I read on here that an hourglass has 10" difference between bust/waist or waist/hips while a rectangle has less. So maybe rectangle or slight pear?

I have a small chest and somewhat squared shoulders also. I find that tops with 3-d texture, detail or even frill in front helps add some volume on top. I do wear scoopnecks and tanks, but it's more flattering if they have a little bulk or I layer something under or over them.

Do you have a longer neck? Fitted turtlenecks (either slim or cabled) and button downs work pretty well for me too. Lately I've been adding a scarf around my neck which draws the attention up and gives me a little more volume.

15 years ago

Lans

Member

Ok, here's a picture I just took. I've actually never done the photo sharing thing yet, so hopefully this works:

http://i802.photobucket.com/al.....G_0201.jpg

Thanks Kristine! I never thought I was a rectangle because of my hips, but maybe I'm wrong? And I suppose my neck is a bit long-ish. I never liked the feeling of turtlenecks, but I've been meaning to give them another try. I struggle with button downs fitting me in the shoulders, and having long enough arms, while not being too big and bulky for the rest of my body. I guess just rolling up the sleeves solves some of that, though.

15 years ago

Lans

Member

Also, excuse the mess in my apartment!

15 years ago

Queen Mum

Veteran

I would say either hourglass or pear. Maybe hourglass with hint of pear?

15 years ago

Queen Mum

Veteran

oh, and excuse my manners-- welcome to the forum!

15 years ago

Louise

Veteran

Bodyshapes are not my strong point so i'll leave it to the others but wnated to welcome you aboard x

15 years ago

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

You look like an inverted triangle to me. Have you looked up Angie's body type posts yet? Here are some for inverted triangles:
http://youlookfab.com/2006/05/.....-triangle/
http://youlookfab.com/2007/06/.....triangles/

15 years ago

Veteran

Hi Lans! Welcome! My first thought was inverted triangle because of your strong shoulder line, but you also have a defined waist. So slim hourglass with inverted triangle tendencies?? I'll let Angie be the final say on your figure.

As far as playing down your shoulders...I tend to keep dark colors on top and light colors on the bottom to draw the eye away from my shoulders. If I need to wear a light color on top, then I try to focus the attention to a strong middle vertical line by using bold/high contrast scarves and necklaces:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/w.....otostream/

Also look for narrow v necklines.

The summers where I am are brutal so I need tank tops. Again, I try to deflect attention from my shoulders by wearing lighter colored bottoms. Wide strap halter tops seem to also work. Here is an example of where I combined a skinny strap tank with a wide halter bikini top last summer:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/w.....168731522/

I hope that helps! If you would like, feel free to look through my photos:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/wearabouts_town/
Not all are good, but I'm still learning! : )

15 years ago