How To Dress for Your Body Type - The Athletic Figure

OK so maybe you are not athletic. But you do have a straight up and down shape. Your shoulders and hip measurements are the same and your waist is only slightly less. The new characterization of your type is the H.

Urban lore suggests that high powered jobs
have caused your body to react with androgens making you physically stronger, but less curvy. It's hard to believe that about Kate Moss...

But whatever the reason, yours is a model shape and great to dress. Of course you will want to wear fitted clothes, but what you need to do is to add the illusion of curve where you need it.

YOUR CHEST AND TORSO: The addition of curves may start with a padded bra. Choose tops that emphasize the bust you have created, and draw attention to your shape. V necks and cowl necks are good to broaden your upper body and create waist definition. Short fitted jackets, or jackets with peplums will work for you. Blouses with ruffles, bows, gathers, and pockets at the bustline will add chest dimension. If age appropriate, you may want to use empire styles and halter tops. Patterned tops will add feminity and softness.

YOUR WAIST: Add wide belts to create your waistline. To delineate it more, wear tops and bottoms in contrasting colors. Use full skirts and pants that flare to add proportion. Look for garments that have well placed horizontal lines.

LEGS AND TROUSER CHOICES: Show off your great legs in skirts and dresses. Balance your top and trouser choices by wearing fitted tops with flared leg bottoms. Pants that hit below the waist may look best on you, but experiment with higher waisted pants with belts and skinny pants that highlight your curves.

COLOR, FABRICS, DETAILS: You can wear color and prints so use them to your advantage. Complement your skin and hair. Avoid black as it will make you look too slender and undefined. Fabric with texture and shine will add dimension to your shape. If you can find them, look for skirts and dresses with banded hems in darker colors. These will make your waist look smaller. Choose princess lines that add curves.