Understanding your body shape is the first step to feeling confident in what you wear. As a personal stylist in London, I see how knowing your body shape can make a huge difference in how you feel and present yourself. It’s not about fitting into a mould, but rather embracing your unique silhouette. Whether you're in Chelsea, Kensington, Notting Hill, or anywhere in London, I offer body shape analysis services to help you identify the best styles for your figure. And, with virtual body shape analysis, you can now access expert styling advice no matter where you are.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to dress for your body shape, focusing on your best features while minimising areas you’re less confident about.

Why Body Shape Analysis is Essential

Everyone’s body is unique, and it’s common to have a body shape that doesn’t fit into just one category. That’s why I always start with a personal body shape analysis—to assess your unique proportions and create a wardrobe that works for you. For example, some women may have a figure that makes them fall between two body shape types. It’s important to remember that body shapes aren’t always black and white, and your stylistic needs are individual.

I work with clients from all over London, including Chelsea, Kensington, Notting Hill, and beyond, to help them understand their body shape and feel empowered by their clothing choices.

The Main Body Shape Types

While every body is unique, body shapes generally fall into five main categories. Understanding your body shape helps guide you in selecting flattering styles that enhance your natural proportions.

Hourglass Shape:An hourglass shape is defined by a well-balanced bust and hips, with a naturally narrow waist. This body shape tends to have a proportionate shoulder-to-hip ratio.
- Style Tips: Look for clothing that highlights your waist, such as fitted dresses, peplum tops, and high-waisted trousers. V-necklines and belted dresses will also enhance your curves.
Pear Shape:If you have a pear shape, your hips are wider than your shoulders, and your waist may be smaller. This body shape often has a noticeable difference in the ratio between shoulders and hips.
- Style Tips: To balance your proportions, choose tops with details like ruffles, patterns, or bold colours to draw attention to your upper body. A-line skirts and dark-coloured bottoms will help slim your hips.
Apple Shape:An apple shape is characterised by a fuller waistline with broader shoulders and a smaller lower body. The focus tends to be on creating a more defined waist and elongating the figure.
- Style Tips: Opt for dresses that have an empire waistline or high-waisted trousers. Long-line blazers and flowy tunics are also excellent choices for creating a streamlined look.
Rectangle Shape:For a rectangle shape, the bust, waist, and hips are more or less the same width, creating a straight-line figure. You may have a less defined waist, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add curves!
- Style Tips: Peplum tops, belted waist dresses, and high-waisted trousers are your best friends. These items help add shape and create the illusion of curves.
Inverted Triangle Shape:If you have an inverted triangle shape, your shoulders and bust are wider than your hips. The goal is to balance the upper body with the lower half.
- Style Tips: Look for flowing tops that add volume to your lower body, such as A-line skirts or wide-leg trousers. V-necklines or scoop necks will create a softer look and highlight your waist.

Focus on Your Favourite Features

One of the best things about knowing your body shape is the ability to dress to highlight your best features. Whether you love your legs, shoulders, or waist, focus on creating outfits that enhance those areas. Here’s how:

If you love your legs, go for skirts or dresses that show them off—think knee-length pencil skirts or high-waisted trousers.
If you love your shoulders, opt for off-the-shoulder tops or structured jackets to add focus to your upper body.
If your waist is your favourite feature, cinch it with a belt or choose tailored dresses that define your silhouette.

Minimise What You Don’t Love

Everyone has a feature they may not feel as confident about. But knowing how to minimise it can help you feel empowered in what you wear. For example:

If you’re not as fond of your hips, dark colours on the bottom paired with lighter or bolder tops can help create a balanced look.
If you prefer not to draw attention to your waist, avoid clothing that clings to the middle and opt for flowy or draped silhouettes that skim over your body.

How Virtual Body Shape Analysis Can Help

Sometimes, seeing the right styling advice can make all the difference. That’s why I offer virtual body shape analysis services for clients across London, the UK, and abroad, including those in Chelsea, Kensington, Notting Hill, and beyond. During a virtual body shape consultation, we’ll look at your body proportions, discuss your style goals, and I’ll guide you on which cuts, colours, and fits will work best for your shape. It’s a personalised service that’s tailored to your body and your individual needs.

Personal Stylist Services in London: Let’s Enhance Your Wardrobe

As a Personal Stylist in London, I specialise in helping clients like you dress for your body shape. From wardrobe edits to personal shopping, I can provide expert styling advice to ensure that your clothing works for your body and personal style. I offer tailored services to make sure you’re dressing in a way that highlights your best features.

If you’re ready to start your styling journey, book a personal styling consultation today. To get started, I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation, where we can discuss your styling goals and how I can help you achieve them. Whether in-person or virtually, I’ll work with you to create a wardrobe that fits your body shape perfectly.

How to Dress for Your Body Shape: A Personal Stylist’s Guide