Like any body shape, the H-shaped body has its strengths and weaknesses. But if you know them, you can choose the right pieces that will enhance your appearance, no matter the style of your outfit. That’s why today, we’re taking stock of the most common body shape according to fashion coach Eléonore Decroix. Find out everything you need to know to dress well when you have an H-shaped body.
Here’s how to dress well with an H-shaped body shape
The H or rectangle body shape is characterized by a very slightly marked waist, almost absent. The shoulders and hips are in the same alignment. To know if this is your body shape, know that women who have this body shape wear the same size of pants as jacket. And to enhance your appearance, the experts at Elle advise you to “play the femininity card in outfits and redraw the curves of the silhouette”. To do this, we highlight the waist by adding volume at the hips and shoulders to create an hourglass shape. This is how we create the illusion of a well-defined waist.
Casual outfit, ideal for the rectangle shape
In fact, many celebrities have this body shape, including Kate Middleton, Natalie Portman, Kate Moss, Vanessa Paradis, Victoria Beckham, Caroline Receveur, Chiara Ferragni, etc.
Natalie Portman is one of the celebrities who have this body shape
Now let’s see which pieces to choose to achieve a successful look every time!
Dresses
You will notice that the dresses that celebrities with this body shape wear all look similar. To highlight the silhouette, we choose straight cuts that do not hug the waist. Sometimes, we choose more or less deep V-necklines to highlight the chest, which creates the illusion of a defined waist. According to stylists, it is better to bet on models with a low, short, midi or maxi waist, pieces with ruffles or shoulder pads.
Midi length, details on the top of the piece are key elements to highlight your H-shaped silhouette
Tops
To avoid the block effect, choose a top that contrasts with the bottom. To create the illusion of a waist, choose models with balloon sleeves, prints and any other piece that has details that attract the eye. This can be a 3D detail, a V-neckline, a bare back. Blouses and flowing shirts are also excellent choices that create volume and mark the waist when tucked in.
Don’t forget to tuck in the top
Down
Pants, jeans and plain skirts with a straight or flared cut and a low waist are the best choices here. We prefer models that fit close to the body. Note that slit skirts are also a sure way to create a beautiful silhouette.
Straight pants are ideal for this body type.
Accessories
When it comes to an H-shaped body, you should know that there is one trick that always works and that is adding a belt. So if there is one accessory that you absolutely must have in this case, it is THE belt. But, not all belts are good for achieving your look. Here, “We opt for a thin belt and we don’t tighten it around our waist. On the contrary, we leave it loose and low-rise, falling on the hips” explain the experts at Cosmopolitan.
Bet on a thin belt
Mistakes to avoid
To enhance your figure, know that experts advise not to mark your waist. In fact, by marking it, we add volume instead of sublimating it. So, when it comes to a belt, we put a thin model delicately in low waist in order to redraw its curves. As for clothing, we avoid pieces marked at the waist.
Avoid marking the waist
We also avoid monochrome outfits that create a blocky impression. This is why stylists recommend focusing on contrast. “by choosing at least two different colors”.
Try to create a nice contrast
Oversized sweater and slit skirt to liven up the outfit
Veiled dress perfect for H-shaped body types
Low-rise jeans and a tucked-in shirt: a perfect duo for this body shape
Here’s How to Enhance Your Appearance No Matter Your Body Shape
Low-waisted skirt and tucked-in blouse for a star look
All-pink outfit highlighted by a white belt
Navy blue suit and tucked-in top to show off your figure
This dress enhances the rectangular silhouette
Kate Middleton’s dresses are perfect for the H-shaped body
Preppy Style for H Shape
Dare to go for bold cuts
Ultra modern peach colored outfit