Characteristics
- Shoulders are narrower than hips and may be sloped
- Small top half as well as small bust
- A defined waist thanks to larger hips
- Full hips and / or thighs
- Legs are likely full or muscular
- Weight gains tend to first be visible around the hips, thighs and lower midriff
Styling the Pear Shape
The pear body shape is heavier on the bottom which creates an imbalance with the upper half of the body. The key to dressing this body shape is to take attention away from the wider hips and to draw it towards the upper body and defined waist instead.
You want to create the illusion of volume on the upper body while emphasising the waist and de-emphasising the lower body to create a balanced silhouette.
Highlight the upper body
Visually adding more weight to the shoulder and bust area de-emphasises the hips and thighs, and balances the silhouette.
- Focus on structured shoulders to visually widen the shoulder line
- Invest in a good push-up bra to lift your chest
- Wear bright colours on your upper body
- Use eye-catching prints, textures and details strategically to create interest on top
- Wear fitted clothes to accentuate the waist
- Layering on your top half creates visual interest and draws the eye upwards
- Keep away from boxy tops that hide the waist
Play down the lower body
De-emphasise the hips and thighs to balance them out with the upper body.
- Wear darker colours on your lower body
- Avoid skinny and tight bottoms that emphasise the wide hips
- Steer clear of embellished bottoms that draw attention the lower body
- Keep your lower body uncluttered and clean
- Avoid details, patterns, pockets on your thigh and hip area and belts on your hips