Different Body Shapes for Women: Complete Visual Guide
Not sure which body shape you have? This comprehensive guide compares all 5 female body types with characteristics, percentages, and styling tips for each.
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The 5 Different Body Shapes Explained
Women's bodies are beautifully diverse, but most figures can be classified into 5 main body shape categories. Understanding these different types helps you dress in ways that flatter your unique proportions.
1. Apple
Also known as: Round, Oval, Diamond
Widest Point
Midsection
Narrowest Point
Hips & legs
Key Characteristics:
- Fuller bust and midsection
- Less defined waist
- Slender legs and arms
- Weight settles in stomach first
- Narrower hips than shoulders
Styling Goal:
Elongate torso, draw attention to legs
2. Pear
Also known as: Triangle, Spoon, Bell
Widest Point
Hips
Narrowest Point
Shoulders
Key Characteristics:
- Hips wider than shoulders
- Well-defined waist
- Slender upper body
- Weight settles in hips and thighs
- Often have a smaller bust
Styling Goal:
Balance hips by adding volume to upper body
3. Rectangle
Also known as: Straight, Banana, Athletic, Ruler
Widest Point
Similar throughout
Narrowest Point
Minimal waist definition
Key Characteristics:
- Bust, waist, hips similar width
- Straight up-and-down appearance
- Athletic or boyish figure
- Weight distributes evenly
- Often lean and long-limbed
Styling Goal:
Create curves and waist definition
4. Hourglass
Also known as: X-Shape, Figure 8, Curvy
Widest Point
Bust and hips equally
Narrowest Point
Waist
Key Characteristics:
- Bust and hips approximately equal
- Significantly smaller waist
- Curvy silhouette
- Weight distributes proportionally
- Naturally balanced proportions
Styling Goal:
Maintain balance and highlight waist
5. Inverted Triangle
Also known as: V-Shape, Strawberry, Athletic
Widest Point
Shoulders/bust
Narrowest Point
Hips
Key Characteristics:
- Broad shoulders
- Bust wider than hips
- Narrow hips and flat bottom
- Athletic upper body
- Lean, toned legs
Styling Goal:
Balance shoulders by adding volume to lower body
Body Shape Comparison Chart
Here is a quick comparison of all 5 body shapes at a glance:
| Shape | Bust vs Hips | Waist Definition | % Women |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🍎 Apple | Bust ≥ Hips | Minimal | 14% |
| 🍐 Pear | Hips > Bust | Well-defined | 20% |
| 📏 Rectangle | Bust ≈ Hips | Minimal | 46% |
| ⏳ Hourglass | Bust ≈ Hips | Very defined | 8% |
| 🔻 Inverted Triangle | Bust > Hips | Moderate | 12% |
How to Determine Your Body Shape
There are two main ways to identify which of these different body shapes you have:
Method 1: Visual Assessment
- 1. Stand in front of a mirror in fitted clothes
- 2. Compare your shoulder width to your hip width
- 3. Note how defined your waist appears
- 4. Identify where you carry weight
- 5. Match your observations to the shapes above
Method 2: Measurements
- 1. Measure your bust at the fullest point
- 2. Measure your waist at the narrowest point
- 3. Measure your hips at the widest point
- 4. Compare the three measurements
- 5. Use our calculator for instant results
Get Instant Results
Our body shape calculator analyzes your measurements and instantly tells you which of these different body shapes matches yours.
Body Shape Distribution by Region
The distribution of different body shapes varies around the world based on genetics, diet, and lifestyle factors. The percentages mentioned (Rectangle 46%, Pear 20%, etc.) are general averages and may differ in specific regions or ethnic groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many different body shapes are there for women?
The most widely used classification system identifies 5 main body shapes: Apple, Pear (Triangle), Rectangle (Straight), Hourglass, and Inverted Triangle. Some systems include additional variations like Diamond, Oval, or Athletic, but these typically fall within the main 5 categories.
Which body shape is most common in women?
The Rectangle body shape is the most common, representing approximately 46% of women. This is followed by Pear (20%), Apple (14%), Inverted Triangle (12%), and Hourglass (8%). These percentages can vary based on geographic region and ethnicity.
Can you have a combination of body shapes?
Yes, many women do not fit perfectly into one category and may have characteristics of two body shapes. For example, you might be a "pear-rectangle" if you have slightly wider hips but not a dramatically defined waist. Body shape calculators use your measurements to find your closest match.
Does body shape change with age?
Yes, body shape can change throughout life due to hormonal shifts, metabolism changes, weight fluctuations, and loss of muscle tone. Many women notice their body shape shifting after puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. While bone structure stays constant, fat distribution often changes.
Which body shape is best for each type of clothing?
Each body shape has clothing styles that are most flattering: Apple shapes look great in V-necks and A-lines; Pear shapes suit structured shoulders and A-line skirts; Rectangles benefit from waist-defining pieces; Hourglasses shine in fitted styles; Inverted Triangles look balanced in V-necks with full skirts.
How do I know which body shape I have?
To determine your body shape, measure your bust, waist, and hips, then compare the proportions. Alternatively, use our free body shape calculator which analyzes your measurements and provides your exact body type with personalized styling recommendations.