You’ve probably heard that dressing in clothes that flatter your body shape is one of the best ways to dress better. (In fact, I’ve said it here plenty of times!) And while it’s true, if you’re still at the beginning of your fashion journey, you may not know what clothes flatter or even what your body shape is! (Pear? Apple? Is this a fruit salad or a body measurement?!) If you find yourself in between sizes or still not sure what your body type is, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. There are certain clothing styles that are universally flattering and transcend individual shapes and sizes, proving that anyone can look fabulous. Use this cheat sheet to save you time, energy, and frustration as you dress in clothes that make you look – and feel – your best!
1. Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are a true wardrobe MVP. They hug you in all the right places, thanks to their adjustable ties that let you customize the fit. Whether you’re curvy or slender, wrap dresses create an effortlessly chic silhouette. The waist detail can create curves on a rectangle body shape, and for curvier figures, it can highlight your hourglass shape. Whether you’re trying to create curves or highlight them, the wrap style cinches at the waist and provides a balanced look to both shapes!
Not to mention, the V-neckline elongates the neck and adds a touch of elegance, perfect for showcasing your décolletage – and a gorgeous necklace perhaps. Available in a variety of fabrics and patterns, there’s a wrap dress for every season and occasion. However, you can never go wrong with a classic little black dress.
Plus, it’s versatile! Whether you need it for a casual outing or formal event, a dress, though it sounds “dressy”, can actually be styled in a casual way too. You may not wear this piece every day, but once you try one, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
2. Wide-leg Pants
Wide-leg pants drape beautifully, offering a relaxed yet polished look that suits every body type. Whether you’re tall, short, curvy, or slender, wide-leg pants create a long, flattering line that elongates your legs and balances your proportions.
Can you wear them even if you’re petite? Yes! For those on the shorter side, opt for high-waisted versions to help elongate the legs. Don’t forget the right shoes either – heels or wedges can add extra inches and heighten (ha) the overall look. To avoid overwhelming your frame, consider a tucked-in top or a cropped jacket to define the waist and offer a well-proportioned look. Keep in mind that certain clothing brands, like Madewell, offer their popular wide-leg styles in a petite size for a better fit.
But whether you’re petite or not, wide-leg pants are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit without sacrificing comfort. (Yes, they can be comfortable.) A go-to way to style these is to pair them with a fitted top and a belt to accentuate your waist.
From structured denim to soft, flowing fabrics – there are so many different styles out there that you may find yourself getting two (or three)! And, of course, we love their versatility. Dress them up for the office or down for a weekend brunch. You can even easily transition them from season to season too. Pick up a pair and watch how they become a staple!
3. A-line Skirts
A-line skirts are a timeless addition to any wardrobe. Picture the shape of a capital A – and now you know how they got their name. These types of skirts fit snugly at the waist and gradually flare out towards the hem, creating a balanced and flattering look. This style accentuates the small part of the waist while providing tummy camouflage, making it perfect for those with a midsection insecurity, or for those who need to define and create a waist.
So whether you’re petite or plus-sized, curvy or slender, the A-line skirt effortlessly enhances your natural shape! Easily dress it up with a blouse and slingback heels or dress it down with a white tee and sneakers. Comfortable and chic, a-line skirts are a go-to piece for both everyday wear and special occasions.
4. Tunic Top
Want comfort as well as style? A tunic top has your back – literally! The longer length provides excellent coverage, making them a great choice for those who prefer a bit more modesty or like clothes that skim over the areas they’re not so confident about, such as the stomach, hips, or thighs. The loose, flowy fit flatters all body types, skimming over curves and creating a smooth silhouette.
From lightweight cotton for summer to cozy knits for fall and winter, there are so many options to choose from! Pair a tunic top with leggings for a laid-back, casual look or with slim jeans for a more polished outfit. Whether you’re heading to the office, a weekend outing, or just lounging at home, this style of top helps you stay stylish and comfortable throughout the day.
By the way, tunic tops don’t have to be shapeless! If your clothing challenge is to create curves, a tunic top can still be flattering. To avoid a shapeless appearance, opt for styles with some details to break up the long piece of fabric – whether that’s a v-neck, turtleneck, belted design, or even an asymmetrical hem. Also, consider choosing tunics made from structured fabrics that hold their shape. The right fit can highlight your frame without overwhelming it!
5. High-Waisted Jeans
High-waisted jeans have staying power for a reason. They’re timeless and flattering – deserving of a spot in any wardrobe. Though a mid-rise style can be flattering, these high-waisted jeans cinch at the natural waist, accentuating the smallest part of your torso to create an elongated, lean silhouette. Perfect for all body types! Plus, they offer excellent support and can smooth out your midsection, boosting your confidence. (And who doesn’t want that?)
Plus, they’re not hard to style either. You can pair them with a tucked-in tee for a casual look or with a white button-down shirt for a casual chic outfit. As far as what jean style to get, take a look at your existing wardrobe and see what’s missing. You can never go wrong with high-waisted straight-leg jeans, but if you already have those, consider getting a wide-leg or kick crop style. Whatever style you get, these jeans provide the perfect canvas!
6. Tailored Blazer
It makes it into every capsule wardrobe we create. No wardrobe is complete without it. That’s right, it’s a blazer! And when you’re going for a universally flattering look, the tailored blazer is a wardrobe essential you want that effortlessly elevates any outfit.
Its structured design creates a polished look, perfect for both professional settings and for elevating a casual look. The clean lines and tailored fit help define your shoulders and waist, adding a flattering touch of elegance – and confidence!
This versatile piece can be layered over a blouse and paired with trousers for a sophisticated look perfect for the office, or thrown over a casual tee and jeans for a chic, off-duty look. A tailored blazer is a timeless addition that can transform even the simplest outfit into something flattering and special!
7. V-neck Top
This wardrobe staple easily makes it onto this list for effortlessly flattering all body types. The V-shaped neckline simultaneously draws the eye downward and upward. Is it magic? Not quite – let me explain!
The “V” leads the gaze down which can give the illusion of a longer, slimmer torso. At the same time, the exposed skin also opens up your neck and face, accentuating the décolletage, adding definition, and breaking up broad shoulders.
This style is incredibly versatile too, easily transitioning from chic to casual looks with a simple change of accessories. You can choose a V-neck in a casual t-shirt, vest, sweater, or more. Pair a V-neck top with high-waisted jeans for a casual yet put-together look, or tuck it into a pencil skirt for a more polished outfit. There are endless styling possibilities!
8. Peplum Top
Though peplum tops come in and out of popularity, they can still be a fantastic way to add a touch of flair to any outfit while flattering a wide range of body types. The style features a fitted bodice that flares out at the waist, creating a playful and feminine silhouette.
This style is perfect for accentuating your waistline and balancing your proportions, whether you’re petite, plus-sized, or somewhere in between. Though they have more of a statement look, they’re still versatile! Their versatility means you can dress them up with statement jewelry and heels or keep it simple with flats and minimal accessories.
9. Fit and Flare Dress
For a flattering and feminine dress style, a fit and flare dress is a top contender! With a fitted bodice and flared skirt, these dresses accentuate the waist while offering a playful and feminine silhouette. This universally flattering cut is perfect for highlighting your curves or creating an elegant, hourglass shape.
Whether you need a dress for a wedding, tea party, or church, fit and flare dresses can be easily styled in different ways. Pair one with ballet flats and a denim jacket for a relaxed everyday look, or go for heels and accessories to make an impression on a special occasion. From breezy cotton for summer to luxe wool for winter, you can find a fit and flare dress for any season.
This dress style also comes in a wide range of necklines and sleeve lengths, giving you plenty of options to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a sleeveless cut for warmer days or long sleeves for more coverage, the fit and flare dress remains a go-to choice.
10. Belted Coat (Or Dress)
Not only is a belted coat functional, but it’s stylish too! Yes, it has practical benefits, but it also offers a refined way to highlight your waistline and create a flattering silhouette. The belt cinches at the natural waist, providing definition and enhancing your curves regardless of your body type (and whether or not you have curves – it can create them!).
Whether you choose a belted wool coat for winter or a belted trench coat for the milder seasons, the belt detail ensures a classy (and tailored!) fit that’s flattering and chic.
Would you rather have a dress? Here are some styling ideas: Pair a belted dress with ankle boots for a chic look or pair your belted dress with ballet flats for a casual chic style.
Choosing the Clothes That Look Best on You
Finding clothes that flatter you doesn’t have to be a challenge when you know what to look for. By incorporating universal styles like v-necks, fit and flare dresses, and more into your wardrobe, you can easily create outfits that enhance your natural shape and boost your confidence.
Now that you know the clothes that are the most flattering on you, learn What to Wear so You Never Look Out of Style!
