Do you have a rectangle body shape? This is characterized by a straight body frame without defined curves.
Most runway models have this body type. Celebrities with this body type include Kate Middleton, Cameron Diaz, and Gisele Bundchen. These women are typically tall and lean. If you are straight on the bottom, but larger on the top you may be an apple body type.
Understanding the styles and cuts that complement your rectangle body shape can help you create a stunning look. In this blog post, we’ll explore fashion tips and style recommendations to dress your shape in a way that flatters your figure.
Create a Waist with Empire, Princess Seam, and Wrap Dresses
One of the key goals for dressing the rectangle body shape is to create the illusion of a defined waist. We also want to add curves to your frame. This can be achieved through the strategic choice of dress styles.
The best dresses for this body type are:
- Empire waist dresses
- A-line dresses
- Princess seam dresses
- Wrap dresses
These are excellent options that work wonders for rectangle body shapes.
Empire dresses feature a high waistline that falls just below the bust, drawing attention to the smallest part of your torso. This style helps to create the illusion of a more pronounced waistline. However, if you’re a long torso rectangle, I would tell you to skip this style.
Additionally, A-line dresses usually accomplish our goals for the rectangle body type too. The fit and flare silhouette creates a waist and provides volume on the bottom. The highly feminized shape also contributes to a softer look, balancing out the angles of the natural frame.
Princess seam dresses are designed with vertical seams that run from the shoulder to the hem. This can create a contoured and flattering fit. The strategic placement of these seams helps to visually sculpt the body and define curves. This cut provides a more hourglass-like appearance.
Wrap dresses are particularly well-suited for rectangle body shapes. The wrap style cinches the waist, instantly creating a more defined silhouette. The draping fabric falls gracefully over the straight body frame, adding softness.
The Power of Belts in Transforming the Shape of Dresses
When it comes to enhancing your rectangle body shape, belts are your secret weapon. They have the remarkable ability to transform the shape of any dress, even those that may initially seem shapeless. By cinching the waist, belts create a more defined silhouette, adding curves and accentuating your natural waistline.
Whether it’s a wide statement belt or a slim and delicate one, the key is to choose a belt that complements the dress style and your personal taste. Experiment with different widths, materials, and buckle designs to find the perfect belt that adds that extra touch of style to your outfits.
Remember, belts are not limited to dresses alone. They can also be used to cinch oversized tops or tunics at the waist, instantly creating a more feminine and shapely look. I would only advise tunic tops on women who are 5’6 and above, however. Unfortunately, that length tends to be unflattering on us shorter ladies.
Creating Curves with Tops: Ruffles, Belts, and Wrap Tops
Tops play a crucial role in enhancing the rectangle body shape. Opt for tops with design elements that add volume and create the illusion of curves. Ruffles, belts, and wrap tops are particularly flattering choices.
Ruffled tops can add depth and dimension to your upper body, making it appear fuller and curvier. Look for tops with ruffles along the neckline, sleeves, or hemline to draw attention and create visual interest.
Similar to dresses, adding a belt to your tops can work wonders. By cinching at the waist, the belt helps create a more defined silhouette and adds a touch of elegance to your outfits.
Wrap tops, like their dress counterparts, are incredibly versatile and flattering for rectangle body shapes. The crossover design drapes nicely over the straight body frame, creating the illusion of curves and adding a feminine flair to your look.
Sleeve Styles that Compliment the Rectangle Body Shape
Sleeve styles can also enhance your rectangle body shape by adding volume to the upper body and balancing out your straighter frame. Consider incorporating puff sleeves, flutter sleeves, and cuffed sleeves into your wardrobe.
Puff sleeves, characterized by their voluminous and gathered fabric, draw attention to the shoulders and create the illusion of a broader upper body. They add a touch of femininity and softness to your overall look.
Flutter sleeves, on the other hand, are delicate and flowy. They create movement and visual interest, making your upper body appear more shapely and curvier.
Cuffed sleeves are another excellent choice for rectangle body shapes. They add structure to your tops and draw attention to your arms, giving the illusion of more defined curves.
Styles to Avoid: Square Necklines, Drop Waist Hems, and Straight Dresses
While many styles can complement a rectangle body type, there are also a few styles that are less than flattering. Square necklines, drop waist hems, and straight dresses are examples of styles that may not be flattering to the straight body frame.
Square necklines tend to emphasize the angularity of the shoulders and can make the upper body appear boxier. Opt for softer necklines, such as V-necks or scoop necks, which create a more rounded and balanced look.
Drop waist hems can visually elongate the torso and make the waistline appear lower, which may further emphasize the straight shape. This is especially unflattering on women who have naturally long torsos. Instead, choose dresses and skirts with defined waistlines that help create the illusion of curves.
Straight dresses, without any cinching or contouring, may not provide the desired shape for a rectangle body. Look for dress styles that offer more structure and definition, such as those with darts or waist details, to create a more flattering silhouette.
Of course, as discussed above, you can fake a waist with strategic belt placement too.
To Sum it All Up
Dressing a rectangle body shape is all about enhancing your natural features and embracing your model-like physique. By choosing the right styles and incorporating design elements like belts, ruffles, and wrap tops, you can create a flattering and confident look. Remember to experiment with sleeve styles, avoid square necklines and drop waist hems, and focus on creating curves and balance. Embrace your rectangle body shape, celebrate your individuality, and let your style shine!
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