Dressing for Your Body Shape After 40 Tips to Look Fabulous

If you’re like me, you’ve probably come to terms with the fact that you may never get your body back to the ideal shape it once was. (Oh, the dreams we once had!) After the birth of each child, my body changed – stretching and reshaping in ways I never imagined. After giving birth, my hips widened, my belly skin loosened, and even my feet got bigger! But let’s take a moment to celebrate these changes as beautiful symbols of motherhood. After all, if someone had told us that this is what it takes to have a baby, we would have said yes without hesitation. (Yes, we would!) That said, for many of you, it’s time to re-learn how to dress for your post-40 body type.

Hopefully, you’ve followed the steps I shared in my last blog post to discover your new body. Now, let’s dive into how to make the most of it. Here’s a refresher on the major body types and how to style your outfits:

How to dress for your body type after 40:

Pear-shaped body

A pear-shaped figure is characterized by a lower body that is wider than the upper body and a waistline that is worth showing off.

Tops for pear shaped figures
Your goal is to balance your figure. Choose tops with eye-catching details such as large collars, lapels, scarves or structured shoulders. Bright colors and patterns on tops can draw attention. Avoid loose tops – they can hide your waist and make you look curve-less. Instead, opt for well-structured jackets with defined shoulders and consider details, such as fur collars, for added style.

Pants for pear-shaped figures
Choose slim-fit pants over skinny pants. Wide-legged pants and pleated skirts are good choices. Choose dark colored pieces and avoid bold prints that will accentuate your hips. Mid-waisted pants are the best choice, while high-waisted and low-waisted pants can ruin body proportions. For skirts, A-line skirts are preferred as they accentuate the waist and balance the body proportions. Avoid pencil skirts as they can overemphasize the hips.

Inverted Triangle Body

Inverted triangles are wider in the upper body (shoulders or chest) than in the lower body. The key is to balance the figure by drawing attention to the lower half of the body.

Tops for the inverted triangle figure
Reject shoulder pads, puff sleeves, big lapels, and any over-the-top shoulder designs. Instead, opt for clean lines and necklines such as V-necks or low crew necks that draw the eye to the collarbone. Cardigans and fitted tops work extremely well, but avoid chunky knits or overly loose designs that add bulk where it’s not needed.

Single-breasted coats and drawstring jackets are perfect for you. Zip-up jackets and hoodies are also great – just partially unzip the zipper to create an attractive V-shape.

Inverted Triangle Pantsuits
This is where you can get creative! Mini skirts, wide-legged pants and bootcut pants are all right for you. These styles help balance out your proportions. Leggings and tight leggings may magnify the difference between your upper and lower body, so choose carefully.

Hourglass figure

The hourglass figure is often considered the “ideal” figure, but believe it or not, it’s not easy to pull off. While formal and tailored clothing tends to emphasize the hourglass figure, casual clothing can be trickier. The key is to work with the curves, not against them.

Tops for the Hourglass Figure
Well-fitting tops show off your curves best. If you prefer loose styles, make sure you wear a belt to emphasize your waistline. Square and sweetheart necklines are especially flattering. Layering is also a good option – try a fitted cardigan and unbutton the top button to emphasize your waistline.

When it comes to jackets, fitted jackets and coats are a must-have. Single-button blazers, aviator jackets and corseted trench coats are perfect for slimming the figure.

Pants for hourglass figures
The pants you choose depend on how curvy you are. If you have very curvy hips, opt for wide-legged, boot-cut or flared pants. These styles help balance your proportions while accentuating your curves. If you’re looking for more fashion inspiration, check out Friday’s dress code tip: Leather pants can enhanceyour closet.

If you are slim, then straight legged pants or leggings work best for you. Avoid baggy joggers or harem pants unless you are hanging out on the couch at home!

Rectangular Shape

The rectangular figure is the most common body type for women. The key is to shape your curves while avoiding loose or baggy clothing. Proportions are also key – finding the right waistline is crucial. Be careful with short tops or low-rise jeans as they can make your torso appear too long or too short.

Tops for rectangular figures

Layering is your best partner when it comes to shaping your figure. Rectangular figures can manage crew necks, polo necks, halter necks and even boat necks, which don’t always suit other figures. Avoid jumpsuits and straight robes with no silhouette. Opt for tailored or belted coats to create a cinched waist. Also, jackets with hemlines that come to the hips can slim the figure.

Pants for rectangular figures

Skinny jeans and slim-fit jeans are perfect for your figure and create a smooth, balanced look. Wide-legged pants also work well, especially when paired with fitted or corseted tops. a-line skirts, mini skirts, pencil skirts and maxi skirts are all good choices. The only skirt styles to avoid are those that are too loose or puffy, as they can hide your figure.


Apple Shape

Apple shaped figures are usually heavier in the midsection. However, you may have long, slender legs and a full bust, so focus on showing these off.

Tops for apple-shaped figures

Choose a top with a low or embellished neckline to direct the eye upwards. Tops with embellishments at the waist or with sleeves help to balance the figure. Waterfall tops and robes are also good choices as they gently cover the waist. Avoid round necks, polo necks and heavy pullovers. Square-necked tops, ruffles, long skirts, quilted jackets and undershirts should also be avoided.

Pants for an apple-shaped figure

Bootcut and flared pants are ideal as they help balance the figure. Skinny jeans accentuate the waist and should be avoided. If you prefer a slimmer cut, you can opt for leggings paired with a corset top for a glamorous look.

Dressing for an apple-shaped figure

Shapeless dresses are not your best choice. Instead, you should opt for high-waisted or wrap dresses which flatter your figure well.


Final point

Once you’ve determined your body type, take a moment to review your closet. It may be time to throw out some of the clothes that don’t flatter your figure. Embrace your new self with confidence and style!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *