Women Body Types: A Complete Guide
Understanding your body type is the first step to dressing with confidence. This guide covers all five women body types, how to identify yours, and what works best for each.
The Short Answer
There are 5 main women body types: apple, pear, rectangle, hourglass, and inverted triangle. Each is defined by the ratio between your shoulder, bust, waist, and hip measurements. The rectangle is the most common at approximately 46% of women according to the SizeUSA study.
What Are the 5 Women Body Types?
Body type classification groups women into five categories based on skeletal proportions and how weight is distributed. These categories were developed through body proportion research, including the FFIT (Female Figure Identification Technique) system, which uses mathematical ratios of bust, waist, and hip measurements.
It is important to note that body type is about proportions, not size. Women of any weight can fall into any category. The five types describe structural differences in how the body is built.
Body Type Characteristics at a Glance
The following table summarizes the key characteristics of each women body type based on measurement proportions:
| Body Type | Shoulders | Bust | Waist | Hips | % of Women |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | Medium-Wide | Fuller | Widest area | Narrower | ~14% |
| Pear | Narrow | Smaller | Defined | Widest area | ~20% |
| Rectangle | Aligned | Medium | Similar to hips | Aligned | ~46% |
| Hourglass | Aligned w/ hips | Fuller | Well-defined | Aligned w/ bust | ~8% |
| Inverted Triangle | Widest area | Fuller | Less defined | Narrower | ~5% |
How to Identify Your Body Type
To find your body type, you need three measurements taken at the widest points:
- Bust: Measure around the fullest part of the chest, keeping the tape level
- Waist: Measure at the natural waistline, the narrowest part of the torso
- Hips: Measure around the widest part of the hips and buttocks
Once you have these numbers, compare the ratios. If your bust and hips are within 5% of each other and your waist is at least 25% smaller, you are likely an hourglass. If all three are within 5% of each other, you are a rectangle. Our calculator does this math for you automatically.
Find Your Body Type Instantly
Enter your measurements into our free calculator and get your body type result in seconds, along with personalized styling recommendations.
Each Body Type Explained
Apple Body Type
The apple body type carries weight primarily in the midsection and bust area, with slimmer legs and hips. The waist measurement is close to or larger than the hip measurement. Women with this type often have a fuller bust and well-proportioned arms and legs.
Styling focus: draw attention to the legs and neckline with V-necks, A-line silhouettes, and well-structured tops that skim the midsection.
Pear Body Type
The pear body type features hips that are wider than the shoulders and bust. The waist is typically well-defined and the lower body is fuller. This type makes up about 20% of the female population according to the SizeUSA survey data.
Styling focus: balance the silhouette with structured shoulders, boat necks, and statement tops. A-line skirts and bootcut trousers complement the lower body.
Rectangle Body Type
The rectangle body type has bust, waist, and hip measurements that are relatively similar, creating a straight silhouette. At roughly 46% of women, this is the most common body type. Women with this type often have an athletic or lean appearance.
Styling focus: create the illusion of curves with belted waists, peplum tops, and layered outfits. Wrap dresses and high-waisted bottoms add shape.
Hourglass Body Type
The hourglass body type features a bust and hips that are roughly equal in width with a significantly smaller waist. Only about 8% of women have a true hourglass figure. The defining feature is the waist-to-hip differential of 25% or more.
Styling focus: fitted clothing that follows the natural curves works best. Wrap dresses, tailored pieces, and defined waistlines highlight the proportions.
Inverted Triangle Body Type
The inverted triangle body type has broader shoulders and bust compared to the hips. This type accounts for about 5% of women. The shoulder measurement is noticeably wider than the hip measurement, often by 5% or more.
Styling focus: balance the silhouette with volume on the lower half. Wide-leg trousers, A-line skirts, and V-necklines help draw the eye downward and create proportion.
Explore Your Body Type
Want detailed styling guides for your specific body type? Start by finding out which category fits you best.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 5 women body types?
The 5 main women body types are apple (wider midsection), pear (wider hips than shoulders), rectangle (similar measurements throughout), hourglass (balanced bust and hips with defined waist), and inverted triangle (broader shoulders than hips). These classifications are based on the ratio between shoulder, waist, and hip measurements.
How do I determine my body type as a woman?
To determine your body type, measure your bust, waist, and hips at their widest points. Compare the ratios: if your hips are wider than your bust, you are likely a pear shape. If your bust and hips are similar with a smaller waist, you are an hourglass. If all three measurements are close, you are a rectangle.
Can a woman have more than one body type?
Your body type is determined by your skeletal structure and proportions, so you have one primary type. However, some women fall between two categories. Weight changes can also shift how your proportions appear, making you seem closer to a different type while your bone structure remains the same.
Does body type change with age?
Your bone structure does not change, but fat distribution shifts with age and hormonal changes. After menopause, many women notice more weight around the midsection, which can shift their apparent body type. However, the underlying skeletal proportions remain consistent throughout life.
What is the most common women body type?
According to the SizeUSA study, the rectangle body type is the most common among women, accounting for approximately 46% of the population. The pear shape is the second most common at around 20%, followed by the apple shape at about 14%. The hourglass accounts for roughly 8% and the inverted triangle about 5%.
Why is it useful to know my body type?
Knowing your body type helps you choose clothing that flatters your proportions and fits well. It can save time and money when shopping by narrowing down silhouettes that work for you. It is not about changing your body but about understanding it so you can dress with confidence.