Summer is the best time of the year, and it’s a time when we should all be outside enjoying it. No matter what your body shape is, you should be able to have fun in the sun while feeling comfortable and confident. Since every shape is different, not all summer outfits work for each. Here is a quick guide to the best summer outfits for each body shape to look and feel your best when the temperature heats up.
Apple-Shaped Body
Apple-shaped bodies are also called round or circular. They are curvy, but the waist is less defined than other shapes. An apple-shaped body tends to have a large bust as well. You should focus on balance with your outfits. This means evening out your shoulders, hips, and bust. Also, you can draw attention to the areas you want to be highlighted and away from the areas that you are not as comfortable with. You can also do this with bold colors in certain spots.
Try a wrap that will help define the waistline for a summer top. Another option is a peplum, a top with a built-in waist to provide that definition. For pants, a bootcut will help give some curve to your legs that will balance well with your body. It is a more relaxed fit, and if it is a high-waist pants, all the better. Finally, if a dress is your favorite option for the summer, choose an empire waist or a wrap to provide that definition around the middle that you are looking for.
Hourglass Body
An hourglass body has shoulders and hips that are relatively even with a well-defined waist. Usually, this means having a large bust and a round rear. A v-neck top is perfect for an hourglass figure in the summer. It allows for airflow and also draws the eye to your well-defined waist. Flowy pants will balance out the flowy nature of your upper body, and stretchy pants will accentuate your natural curves.
For a summer dress, try a jumpsuit. While it’s not technically a dress, it will help show your curves and balance your upper and lower halves. A fit and flare dress will also highlight your waist and the natural curve of your hips.
Pear-Shaped Body
A pear-shaped body is also called a triangular frame. It is characterized by having shoulders that are thinner than your hips and thighs. The waist tends to be defined and is narrower than the hips. A square neck short-sleeve top will help draw the eyes updated to your shoulders and collarbone, which can be modest and sexy at the same time.
A flat-fronted pant will help lengthen the legs and give your entire lower half more definition while highlighting your curves. You can also choose a modest skirt that will hint at your hips but provide structure to your lower half.
An off-the-shoulder dress is a perfect summer option for the pear-shaped body. It will draw the eye up to the shoulders and the bust. You can also go with an a-line dress, which is less clingy than other dresses and allows your lower half to show off.
Petite Body Shape
Having a petite frame is not just about the shape but also height. Generally, those who are petite are less than 5’3”. The most common sizes tend to be too long or baggy, and petite women do not usually have large busts or bottoms. The key for Petites is to wear clothing that gives the illusion of length and that there will be a need for alterations for anything you buy.
For a top, three-quarter sleeves make your arms look longer since they are sticking out of a sleeve that is not “short.” You can also go with an off-the-shoulder top to create space on your chest and shoulders and provide an elongating feel.
High-waisted pants will make your legs look longer than they are. Skinny and pleated fits will also provide structure and curves to your legs that also help to elongate them. A midi or high-low dress will show off some of your legs to give a similar effect to what the three-quarter sleeve does for your arms. Make sure that you go with heels, which will physically make you taller and make your legs look longer.
While these are 4 of the most common body shapes, there are many more in between. In some cases, you may have different shapes for your upper half than for your lower half. For example, it’s very common to be petite in the legs and a more standard size up top. Again, you will have to mix and match to find something that works perfectly for you.
When creating a summer outfit, the important thing is to choose pieces that not just look great and accentuate what you want to highlight but also that you are comfortable in. Breathable fabrics and short sleeves will always help you fight the heat. That way, you can look your best while also feeling your best.
