Rectangular, Hourglass and Oval Body

Waist architecture of the Rectangular body

The woman with a Rectangular body has aligned shoulders and hips, but lacks definition at the waist. The challenge is to create the optical illusion of curves.

This is not achieved by simply cinching the waist with a belt (which would only highlight the lack of shape, creating the "sausage" effect), but by generating volume both above and below to make the waist appear smaller by comparison.

We recommend garments that structure the shoulders and at the same time have a flare at the hips, such as peplum blazers or double-breasted dresses that tie at the side. Mid-high rise pants with darts help round out the hips.

The "color block" technique also works: dark side panels on a light dress can visually "trim" the waist.

Avoid straight tubular garments or shapeless empire cuts, as they replicate the rectangular box of the body.

Hourglass management: Enhance without cluttering.

Although considered the aesthetic ideal because of its natural balance, the Hourglass runs the risk of looking vulgar if it fits too tightly or "boxy" if hidden under baggy clothing.

The golden rule is: follow the line of the body without strangling it. Garments should be fitted, respecting the natural curve of the waist. Wrap dresses are the best allies.

Oversize or straight garments (tunics, square blouses) should be avoided because the fabric will fall from the most prominent point of the bust to the most prominent point of the hip, hiding the waist and making the person look like a solid block and heavier than it is.

Excessive ruffles or frills both above and below simultaneously are also not recommended, as the figure already possesses enough "visual information" on its own. Simplicity in cuts favors this silhouette.

Vertical styling for the Oval body (Apple)

This morphology concentrates volume in the abdominal and thoracic area, but usually enjoys slim and slender legs. The goal is to elongate the torso and draw attention away from the abdomen.

The most effective strategy is the "color column": wear a monochromatic shade underneath (top and pants) and add a third open garment (cardigan, long blazer, vest) that creates two long vertical lines, "cutting" the sides of the abdomen.

The empire cut (fitted under the bust and loose over the belly) is excellent in dresses and blouses, as it defines the narrowest part of the torso and conceals the lower volume.

Belts at the natural waist, stiff fabrics that bulge and large prints on the torso should be avoided.

Instead, emphasize the strong points: show off the legs with knee-length skirts or straight pants, and clear the neckline and décolleté to bring air and elegance to the face.

Summary

The Rectangular body has aligned shoulders and hips without a defined waist. The challenge is to create optical curves by structuring shoulders and hips simultaneously, or by using peplum cuts, avoiding straight tubular garments.

Hourglass is the balanced ideal, but should not be hidden under loose-fitting clothing. It should follow the line of the body with fitted garments and wrap-around dresses that respect the natural curve.

The Oval morphology concentrates volume in the abdomen with slender legs. It seeks to elongate the torso using the internal monochromatic "color column" and third open garments that cut vertically on the sides.