Triangle Body Shape: Pear vs Inverted Triangle Explained
The term "triangle body shape" can be confusing as it applies to two different body types. Learn the difference between pear (triangle) and inverted triangle shapes.
Understanding Triangle Body Shapes
When people search for "triangle body shape," they might be referring to one of two distinctly different body types. The confusion arises because both shapes form a triangle silhouette—but the triangle points in opposite directions.
Let's clear up the confusion once and for all and help you identify which triangle type you are.
Pear Shape (Triangle)
The pear body shape is also called the triangle shape because when viewed from the front, the body forms a triangle with the point at the top (shoulders) and the base at the bottom (hips).
Pear (Triangle) Characteristics
Physical Features
- • Hips wider than shoulders
- • Well-defined waist
- • Narrow shoulders
- • Slender upper body
- • Fuller hips, thighs, bottom
Weight Distribution
- • Lower body focused
- • Hips and thighs first
- • Bottom and outer thighs
- • Face/upper body stays lean
Approximately 20% of women have this body type
Celebrities: Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Kim Kardashian, Shakira
Best Styles for Pear Shape
The goal is to balance your proportions by drawing attention to your upper body and streamlining your lower half.
Best Choices
- • Boat necks and wide necklines
- • Statement sleeves and shoulders
- • Bright colors on top
- • A-line skirts and dresses
- • Bootcut and flare jeans
- • Structured blazers
Styles to Avoid
- • Skinny jeans without balance
- • Pleated skirts at the hip
- • Horizontal stripes on bottom
- • Low-rise pants
- • Halter necks
- • Clingy fabrics on hips
Inverted Triangle (V-Shape)
The inverted triangle body shape is the opposite of the pear. When viewed from the front, it forms a triangle with the base at the top (shoulders) and the point at the bottom (hips), hence "inverted" or upside-down triangle.
Inverted Triangle (V-Shape) Characteristics
Physical Features
- • Broad shoulders
- • Bust wider than hips
- • Narrow hips
- • Flat bottom
- • Athletic upper body
- • Lean, toned legs
Weight Distribution
- • Upper body focused
- • Back and arms first
- • Upper chest area
- • Lower body stays lean
Approximately 12% of women have this body type
Celebrities: Angelina Jolie, Naomi Campbell, Demi Moore, Renee Zellweger
Best Styles for Inverted Triangle
The goal is to balance your proportions by minimizing your shoulders and adding visual volume to your lower half.
Best Choices
- • V-necklines and scoop necks
- • Dark colors on top
- • A-line and full skirts
- • Wide-leg pants
- • Patterned bottoms
- • Peplum tops
Styles to Avoid
- • Shoulder pads
- • Boat necks
- • Puffed sleeves
- • Horizontal stripes on top
- • Double-breasted jackets
- • Skinny jeans alone
Pear vs Inverted Triangle: Side by Side
Here is a direct comparison to help you understand the key differences:
| Feature | Pear (Triangle) | Inverted Triangle |
|---|---|---|
| Widest Point | Hips | Shoulders |
| Narrowest Point | Shoulders | Hips |
| Weight Gain | Lower body first | Upper body first |
| Triangle Direction | Point up | Point down |
| Styling Goal | Add volume to top | Add volume to bottom |
| % of Women | ~20% | ~12% |
How to Determine Which Triangle You Are
The easiest way to determine your triangle type is to measure your shoulders and hips:
Quick Self-Assessment
You are likely a PEAR (Triangle) if:
- • Your hips measure larger than your shoulders/bust
- • You gain weight in your hips and thighs first
- • You have a defined waist
- • Tops fit easily but pants/skirts are a size or two larger
You are likely an INVERTED TRIANGLE if:
- • Your shoulders/bust measure larger than your hips
- • You gain weight in your upper body first
- • You have narrow hips and lean legs
- • Bottoms fit easily but tops need to be sized up
Get Your Exact Body Shape
Our body shape calculator uses your measurements to determine your exact body type and provides personalized styling recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a triangle body shape?
Triangle body shape typically refers to the pear shape, where hips are wider than shoulders. The body tapers from wider hips to narrower shoulders, creating a triangle silhouette. This is different from inverted triangle, where shoulders are wider than hips (V-shape).
What is the difference between pear and inverted triangle?
Pear (triangle) has wider hips than shoulders with weight carried in the lower body. Inverted triangle (V-shape) has wider shoulders/bust than hips with weight carried in the upper body. They are essentially opposite body shapes requiring different styling approaches.
Is triangle body shape the same as pear?
Yes, triangle body shape and pear body shape refer to the same body type. Both describe a figure where the hips are wider than the bust and shoulders, with weight typically carried in the hips, thighs, and bottom.
How do I know if I am a triangle or inverted triangle?
Measure your shoulders/bust and hips. If your hips are wider than your shoulders, you are a triangle (pear). If your shoulders are wider than your hips, you are an inverted triangle. Use our body shape calculator for accurate results.
What percentage of women have a triangle body shape?
Approximately 20% of women have a pear (triangle) body shape, making it the second most common body type after rectangle. Around 12% have an inverted triangle body shape.
Can you change from pear to inverted triangle?
While you cannot change your bone structure, factors like weight distribution, muscle development, and hormonal changes can alter your proportions over time. Targeted exercise can also help balance your silhouette visually.