If you have a triangle-shaped body—also known as a pear shape—your silhouette features narrower shoulders, a more defined waist, and fuller hips or thighs. The key to dressing this shape is all about creating visual balance. That means drawing the eye upward, emphasizing the waist, and streamlining the lower half. To help you accomplish this, I’ve put together an Indiana Wardrobe Stylist guide. This blog is personal for me since I have always had a bigger on the bottom shape.
Indiana Wardrobe Stylist Tips for Dressing a Triangle-Shaped Body
1. Focus on the Upper Half
Your goal is to broaden the shoulders and draw attention upward. To do this, opt for:
- Structured or padded shoulders: A blazer or jacket with some shoulder detail adds symmetry.
- Bold colors or patterns: Bright hues, prints, stripes, or interesting necklines (boat neck, cowl, off-the-shoulder) naturally draw the eye up.
- Statement accessories: Earrings, necklaces, and scarves are perfect for adding interest to the top half.
- Layered tops: Ruffles, embellishments, and interesting textures up top create volume where needed.
2. Keep the Bottom Half Simple and Sleek
Because the hips are naturally fuller, choose bottoms that are clean-lined and visually elongating.
- Dark, solid colors: Navy, black, and charcoal create a slimming effect.
- Straight-leg or bootcut pants: These shapes balance out the hips and give the legs length.
- A-line skirts: This universally flattering cut skims over the hips without clinging.
- Flat-front or mid-rise trousers: Avoid excessive pleats or pocket detailing, which can add bulk.
3. Define the Waist
Since triangle-shaped women often have a well-defined waist, it’s important to showcase it.
- Tailored blazers or wrap tops: These pieces emphasize your natural curves and create a balanced proportion.
- Belts at the waist: Belting a dress or top at the smallest point of your waist helps highlight your shape.
- Fit-and-flare dresses: These are ideal for triangle shapes because they define the waist and flow gracefully over the hips.
4. Balance with Layering
Layering strategically can bring proportion to your silhouette. So consider cropped jackets or cardigans. Ending at the waist helps draw attention up and doesn’t add bulk to the hips. Also, try light layers on top and smooth fabrics on the bottom. This keeps texture and volume above the waistline.
5. Avoid Overwhelming the Hips
While it’s tempting to hide areas we feel self-conscious about, oversized pants or busy prints on the lower half can actually draw more attention.
Instead, opt for minimalist details below the waist, long vertical lines or slit skirts for length, and fabrics that skim and don’t cling.
Draw attention to the top half with colors, prints, and statement necklines.
Emphasize your waist with belts and fitted silhouettes. And keep the lower half sleek with straight lines and dark colors
Avoid bulky or overly detailed bottoms, tops that are too tight or too long, and neglecting the waistline.
Get In Touch for Indiana Wardrobe Stylist Advice
Every body shape is beautiful, and the triangle shape has the advantage of a feminine, curvy silhouette. With the right pieces, you can dress in a way that flatters your proportions and showcases your natural beauty confidently and effortlessly.
Contact me for style help at beth@bethdivinestyle.com.
Keep it sassy, Indy.
Beth Divine, MA, AICI-CIC, Indiana Wardrobe Stylist
