Understanding your body shape is fundamental to creating a flattering wardrobe. When clothes are chosen to complement your natural proportions, you'll look and feel more confident in everything you wear.

While there are many nuanced body types, most people fall primarily into one of five classic shapes:

• Rectangle: Shoulders and hips are approximately the same width with minimal waist definition
• Hourglass: Shoulders and hips are balanced with a well-defined waist
• Pear/Triangle: Hips wider than shoulders with a defined waist
• Inverted Triangle: Shoulders wider than hips
• Apple/Oval: Fuller midsection with slimmer legs and arms

The key to dressing any body shape is to create visual balance by emphasizing your favorite features while creating the illusion of a balanced silhouette. For example:

For Rectangle shapes: Create the illusion of curves with peplum tops, wrap dresses, and belted garments that define the waist.

For Hourglass shapes: Showcase your natural proportions with fitted clothing that follows your curves without being too tight.

For Pear shapes: Balance your silhouette with attention-grabbing tops, structured shoulders, and A-line skirts.

For Inverted Triangles: Add volume to your lower half with full skirts, wide-leg pants, and minimize shoulder emphasis.

For Apple shapes: Create definition with empire waistlines, V-necks, and streamlined bottoms.

Remember that these are guidelines, not rules. Personal style, comfort, and confidence always take precedence over "fashion rules."