The two “ideal” 🙄 (I have issues with calling anything ideal.) body types are the trapezoid (Men) and hourglass (Women). They are the body types that designers design for.
Sections
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Trapezoid (Men’s)
Hourglass (Women’s)
Trapezoid (Men’s)
The trapezoid body type is often considered the most proportionate, with balanced shoulders and hips and a well-defined waist. Since this body type can pull off many styles, the key is to enhance its natural balance while adding personal flair.
Here...
A tailored blazer complements the naturally balanced frame by enhancing the shoulders without making them look too broad. A single-breasted design keeps the torso from appearing too boxy. (Stay away from anything double breasted, 2 sets of buttons. I...
Macy's
These cuts provide a streamlined look that maintains the natural proportion between the upper and lower body. Avoid overly skinny jeans, which can make the legs look too narrow compared to the shoulders.
Men's Straight Leg Jeans - Buckle
Single-breasted suits maintain the body's natural proportions without adding extra width. Double-breasted suits can add too much bulk to an already well-proportioned frame.
Macy's
A slim-fit or tailored-fit button-up shirt enhances the natural V-shape of the upper body without excess fabric making it look sloppy.
Avoid boxy, oversized fits, as they can hide your natural shape.
Men's Short Sleeve Casual Button Down Shirts - Macy's
Chinos with a slight taper help maintain a clean silhouette by keeping the leg line sharp and in proportion to the upper body. Baggy pants can throw off the balance, making the lower half look too bulky.
Men's Tapered Chinos - Old Navy
A cropped, structured bomber jacket naturally enhances the shoulders while maintaining a snug fit at the waist, emphasizing the trapezoid shape without adding unnecessary bulk.
Men's Bomber Jackets - Macy's
These sleek, streamlined boots elongate the legs and
complement a well-proportioned body without adding bulk. Chunky shoes or overly pointed-toe designs can throw off the balance.
Men's Chelsea Boots - Macy's
A well-fitted wool overcoat keeps the silhouette clean while adding an elegant touch. Avoid oversized or drop-shoulder styles, which can make the body look shapeless.
Macy's
Crewnecks highlights the natural width of the shoulders, while a V-neck elongates the torso. Either option keeps the shape structured without looking baggy or boxy.
Macy's
A well-fitted crewneck follows the natural shape of the torso without adding unnecessary bulk or looking too tight. Crewnecks also highlight the shoulders and chest while keeping the overall look streamlined.
MEN'S CREW NECK T-SHIRTS - True Classic
Hourglass (Women’s)
The hourglass body shape is characterized by a well-defined waist and balanced proportions between the bust and hips. The key to dressing this shape is to highlight the waist while maintaining a balanced silhouette.
Here are 10 individual clothing i...
The wrap style cinches at the waist, accentuating the natural curves without adding bulk. The V-neckline also elongates the neck and draws attention to the décolletage (chest).
Women's Wrap Dresses - Macy's
These emphasize the smallest part of the waist and create a seamless transition between the upper and lower body, enhancing the natural proportions.
Women's High Waisted Jeans - Hollister Co
The fitted waist and subtle flare at the hips maintain balance while adding a touch of femininity without making the torso appear boxy.
Womens Peplum Tops - Bloomingdale's
Structured outerwear with a defined waist (like trench coats or belted blazers) keeps the hourglass shape from being lost under layers.
Macy's
The snug fit follows the natural curves of the hips and thighs while keeping the overall silhouette sleek and polished.
Women's Pencil Skirts - Macy's
These styles hug the curves in a flattering way and highlight the waist, avoiding the bulky or shapeless effect of oversized knits.
Macy's
These naturally highlight the waist while allowing for comfortable movement in the hips, creating a balanced hourglass-friendly shape.
Macy's
Corsets and bustiers, help define the waist and enhance the natural curves without needing additional shaping.
Women's Corset & Bustier Shirts & Tops - Macy's
Unlike boxy blazers, those with slight tapering at the waist maintain the body's natural curves and prevent a bulky, straight silhouette.
Unlike skinny jeans, which may over-accentuate the hips, or wide-leg pants, which may add too much volume, straight-leg and bootcut styles create a proportional, elongated look.