Styling the Rectangle Body Shape | Everyday Fashion

Over the years, one of the most frequently asked questions I receive is, “How should I dress for my body shape?” While dressing for your body shape can simplify style choices, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. To make it easier, I’ve put together some helpful guidelines for each body type. Before we dive in, here are some things to keep in mind.

• I focus on the four main body shapes. In my experience, all body types are either variations of these four or combinations of them. The more body shapes to consider, the harder it becomes to identify your unique shape.
• Start by identifying your primary body shape, then consider a secondary shape. Borrow elements from those guidelines to customize your style. If you’re unsure, go with the body type you relate to most and build from there.
• Each body, even those sharing the same shape, is different. You might be slightly Apple-shaped or have a more extreme hourglass figure. The more pronounced your shape within the category, the more helpful these guidelines will be.
• Take the advice that suits you best and leave what doesn’t. The goal is to simplify style and make it enjoyable, not to trap yourself in a rigid set of rules. As Picasso famously said, “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Understanding why certain styles work will empower you to adjust the guidelines to suit your preferences.
• Learn about body types—both what they are and what they’re not. Check out our podcast episode [Body Type Basics](https://youreverydaystyle.com/ep-02-body-type-basics/) to dive deeper.

Not sure what body type you are? [Take our Quiz](https://youreverydaystyle.com/body-shape-quiz).

Understanding the Rectangle Body Shape

The Rectangle body shape is characterized by shoulders and hips that are about the same width and a waist that’s not well-defined.

In my experience, the Rectangle body is the easiest to dress but also the trickiest when it comes to advice. It’s easy because most clothes today are designed with this body shape in mind. The Rectangle body is naturally balanced, making fit challenges less common.

However, giving advice for the Rectangle can be tricky, as there’s a lot of variation in this body shape. Rectangles often experience shape shifts with weight changes, unlike other body types that maintain a relatively consistent form.

A common misconception about Rectangles is that they’re always tall and lean or have a boyish, athletic build. This is not true, which often leads to confusion, as the Rectangle is the most common body shape, and many women don’t fit these stereotypes. Rectangles can have narrow or broad shoulders, a small or large bust, and wide or narrow hips—there are no one-size-fits-all secondary traits.

The only consistent feature across all Rectangles is a balanced top and bottom and a waist that lacks definition.

How to Dress a Rectangle Body Shape

It’s easier to dress the Rectangle shape once you identify any secondary body traits. For example, if you have a fuller bust or a thicker midsection, borrow tips from the Apple shape. If your weight tends to collect in your lower body, look to the Pear shape guidelines.

The most varied form of the Rectangle is a shape one of my clients coined the “Hourtange.” It’s a blend of the Rectangle and Hourglass shapes—not as curvy as an hourglass but not as straight either. If you’re unsure whether you lean more towards an hourglass or Rectangle, let your pants decide. Hourtangles usually don’t face the waistband gaping issues that Hourglasses do. Hourtangles can benefit from mixing Rectangle and Hourglass styling tips, with the aim of accentuating the curves they naturally have.

Another variant is the “I” shape (sometimes called the banana shape)—a long, lean Rectangle, often described as lanky. This body type is very straight, and the focus is usually on creating curves or movement.

In contrast, the “H” shape, also known as the brick body type, is another straight shape, but without the lean factor. This body can be muscular, larger-framed, or simply carry more weight. The goal for the H shape is to add curves or create length, often giving the body a leaner, longer appearance.

The final variation is the “O” shape, or the oval. For some Rectangles, weight gain is distributed evenly, keeping the straight shape intact. However, for others, the weight may gather in the midsection, creating a rounded appearance. Women with this shape may mistakenly identify as Apples, but Apples tend to have wider shoulders and a fuller bust. Ovals can benefit from the Apple guidelines, as they share some of the same challenges.

Since clothing is generally designed with Rectangles in mind, they face fewer fit issues than other shapes. However, it can still be tricky to figure out how to dress, especially for those who don’t fit the stereotypical “boyish” or “I-shaped” figure. By considering your style goals and borrowing advice from secondary body types, you can make the most of your Rectangle shape, no matter which variation you are!

How to Dress Tops and Jackets

Start by choosing the right neckline:High necklines like turtlenecks, mocks, and crews are ideal for smaller busts and longer necks, while open necklines, such as V-necks or scoop necks, flatter larger busts and shorter necks. Since Rectangle bodies come in various forms, choose the neckline that complements your upper body.

If your goal is to create curves or movement on top, look for styles with ruffles, color blocking, or diagonal lines to add dimension. These styles will help break up the straightness and give the illusion of curves.

Styles with belts, drawstrings, or waist ties can also define your midsection and create the appearance of a waist. Peplum tops are excellent for adding volume to the hips and giving the illusion of a waistline.

For tops, consider rounded details like scoop necks and curved hems to soften your figure. Straight, structured shapes like boat necks and angular hems add definition, especially for rounder figures.

If you’re aiming to enhance your bust, look for embellishments such as breast pockets or stripes across the chest. However, if you’re not focused on creating a fuller bust, steer clear of these details.

Rectangles can pull off oversized styles, but balance is key. If you opt for oversized tops, create structure elsewhere, such as through fitted sleeves or by tucking your top in slightly.

Dresses for Rectangle Body Shapes

When selecting dresses, it’s crucial that the waist of the dress aligns with your natural waistline. Some Rectangles look fantastic in fit-and-flare styles, while others without a defined waist should consider shift or swing dresses.

Shirt dresses are especially flattering for Rectangle shapes, whether you choose to add a belt or wear it loose.

If you’re aiming to create curves, consider a fitted sheath dress or a wrap dress.

Jumpsuits and rompers also offer a modern, flattering alternative to traditional dresses. Apply the same dress guidelines to find the best fit.

Bottoms for Rectangle Body Shapes

Rectangles have a wide variety of options when it comes to bottoms. To create curves, opt for fitted skirts, jeans, and pants.

If you’re happy to embrace your straight shape, you can wear virtually any style of bottom. The key is maintaining balance between your upper and lower body. For example, pairing a top with puff sleeves that adds volume to your upper body with a bottom style that adds volume to your lower body, like bootcut jeans or trousers, helps maintain this balance.

When it comes to skirts, consider styles with ruffles, pleats, or cargo pockets to add volume to your lower half, giving the illusion of curves. Straight, pencil, and bias-cut skirts work best if you’re looking to maintain a more straight silhouette.

Skirts that flare out from the waist, particularly those made from structured fabrics, will create volume in the hips and make your waist appear smaller.

Styling Tips for Rectangles

Start with a great bra. The right bra is the foundation of any good outfit, as it can make a significant difference in how clothes fit and flatter your body. Learn more about finding the perfect bra in our [podcast episode](https://youreverydaystyle.com/episode32/).

Use accessories to draw attention to the parts you love, add volume to areas you want to enhance, or to create long vertical lines. Short necklaces and stud earrings are great for drawing attention to your bust and neck, while longer necklaces will help elongate your figure.

To create the illusion of a waist, consider pairing a matching top and bottom with a layering piece in a different color, then add a wider, stretchy belt at the waist.

When styling your Rectangle shape, focus on how the entire outfit works together. Try on full outfits rather than individual pieces to see how they balance out your figure.

Finally, as Audrey Hepburn said, “Happy girls are the prettiest,” so wear what}