Rectangle Body Shape
We are talking all things body type and next on list in the body shape series is the rectangle shape! If you are not sure which body type you are pop over to this post and you will find a full guide on how to measure your body to determine which shape you are. I encourage you to read about all of the body types because, the more you understand balance and proportion, the easier it will be to get dressed. If you are like most people, you may fall in between two body types, so understanding both will give you a better understanding of how to dress according to both.
Please note that this is a guideline and the most important thing is you should always wear what you feel empowered in, regardless of what our body type is we can highlight and contour our body with clothes creating balance.
So, let’s jump in to the rectangle shape also known as straight or athletic body shape. First know your measurements, this will determine what shape you are. Below are some of the defining characteristics of a rectangle body type.
You have no defined waist
The hips tend to have a similar width as the shoulders
You do not have a lot of curves
Your bust tends to be small or average
Your bottom tends to be flat
This is one of the easier body types for dressing.
Many models and athletes have this body type. You are able to find a lot of options and have an easier time finding pieces that fit off the rack because, they are made using dress forms (which lack curviness). Similar to apple shape bodies you have a less defined waist and tend to gain weight in this area creating even less definition. As a rectangle you can go either way play up your long lean lines or add curves.
Styling Tips
Use color blocking and prints to add dimension to your look
A good properly fitted bra is important to shape and define your bust line
Wear tops and jackets that emphasize the waist.
You can use some shoulder padding (don’t overdo it though)
Medium to high necklines usually work well, especially if you have a small bust and long neck
If you like to create the illusion of bigger breasts, choose tops with pockets, rushes, pleating and other front details
Halter necks will also give the appearance of a bigger bust and show off your back and shoulders.
Accessorize with belts around the waist. Heavy belts can be really good if you have a long waist or torso.
Peplum tops give you that cinched waist while adding volume to your hips.
Use accessories to highlight the parts you love, add volume to areas you’d like to fill out, or to create long vertical lines. Shorter, statement necklaces and stud earrings will draw attention to the bust and neck, while longer necklaces create vertical lines. Chunky scarves can help add volume to your upper body.
Wrap Dress
Peplum
A peplum is a super fun way to add volume and shape to your look. You can find a good peplum detail in so may different styles tops, dresses, skirts, jumpsuits. The idea here is you are drawing the eye in at the waist and adding “curve” to your hips and shoulders depending on the neckline. They are one of my personal favorite design elements and I have constructed many a peplum in my day.
Bottoms
You have so many options to work with in the bottoms department. It depends on whether or not you want to add curves. There are really not a lot of “avoid this” if you are a rectangle body type Yaaasssss! So you have a lot of free range to experiment and play with shapes without wreaking havoc to your figure.
Pants
Skirts
Tops
Choose the right neckline: Higher necklines, like turtlenecks, mocks and crews flatter a smaller bust and longer neck, while more open necklines, like v’s and scoops are better for a larger bust and shorter neck.
If your goal is to create movement or curves on top, look for styles that feature ruffles, color blocking, diagonal lines, print blocking, etc. Rectangles can really play with volume so feel free to go all out if you love it.
Tops with belts, drawstrings or wrapped waists will also create curves and give your midsection definition. Peplums are great for creating a waist and adding volume to your hips.
Tops with rounded details like scoop necks and curved hems will soften a straighter figure, while linear shapes like boat necks and straight hems will add structure to a rounder figure.
When it comes to embellishment on your tops, consider what you are highlighting. If you want your bust appear fuller, look for things like breast pockets, stripes or prints across the bust. This can also be ruffles, interesting draping, exaggerated collars. If your goal isn’t to create a fuller bust, avoid adding any of these elements.
Interesting sleeves, like cuffed, flutter, bell or layered will also create movement on your upper half.
If you are letting go of the idea of curves, or want to camouflage your midsection, flowy woven fabrics, or knits with drape, are your best choice. If you want to enhance your curves, or create some, look for more structured, fitted knits.
Tops that end at your hip or below are the best option. Shorter tops can create a harsh line across your midsection, making it appear wider.
Jackets
If you are going for more of an hourglass shape choose a belted style in a long coat that will draw attention to the middle while becoming fuller on the top and bottom. A blazer can be fitted that draws in at the waistline giving a curved waistline, or oversized and worn loosely open. Vests are also a great piece to wear alone or layer underneath your. Especially if you a going with an oversized looser jacket the fit and taper of the vest keeps your waist defined.
Things To Remember
Balance | Body shape is almost entirely based on your bone structure—not your weight. Use your outfit to balance your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips.
Draw Focus | Use lines to focus the eye where you want it to go. They can help you create curves, lengthen, or emphasize your favorite parts of your body with prints, color, and structure.
Color + Pattern | Your eye is also drawn to patterns and light, bright colors more so than solid black or navy. Keep this in mind when choosing separates.