How to Dress for a Rectangle Body Shape | Everyday Style

Over time, I’ve been frequently asked, “How do I dress for my body shape?” Although dressing according to your body shape can simplify your style choices, getting started might feel overwhelming. To help with this, I’ve compiled some easy-to-follow tips tailored to each body shape. Before we dive in, here are a few points to keep in mind.

• First, I focus on the 4 main body types. Based on my experience, every shape either falls into one of these categories or is a mix of them. The more body types there are to consider, the more confusing it becomes to identify your unique shape.
• Begin by identifying your dominant body shape, then look for a secondary one, borrowing guidelines from both as needed. If you’re unsure, pick the shape that feels closest to you and start there.
• Even individuals with the same body shape can differ significantly. Some may have a slightly Apple-shaped body, while others could have an extreme hourglass figure. The more pronounced your shape is, the more these guidelines will work in your favor.
• Take the advice that resonates with you and leave the rest. Body shape guidelines should make styling easier and more enjoyable, not restrict you to rigid rules. As Pablo Picasso once said, “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.” Once you understand the “why” behind styling tips, you can adjust the guidelines to suit your personal preferences.
• To better understand the various body types, check out our podcast episode Body Type Basics.

Still unsure about your body type? Take our Quiz to find out.

The Rectangle Body Shape

The Rectangle shape is defined by a balance between the shoulders, bust, and hips, with a waist that lacks clear definition.

In my experience, the Rectangle body shape is the easiest to dress but the hardest to give advice to. It’s easy to dress because many clothes are designed for this shape, and its balanced proportions make it fit most styles. However, advising Rectangles can be tricky because this shape has the most variety. Unlike other body types that remain relatively constant, Rectangles often shift their proportions when they gain or lose weight.

There’s a common misconception that Rectangles are always long, lean, or boyish. This is false, and many women find themselves confused by this, as the Rectangle shape is the most common. Not every Rectangle fits into the traditional stereotypes. For instance, Rectangles can have broad or narrow shoulders, a large or small bust, and wide or narrow hips. The one thing all Rectangles share is a balanced top and bottom half, with a relatively undefined waist.

Identifying your secondary body shape can make dressing easier. If your bust is fuller or your midsection is thicker, look to the Apple guidelines for inspiration. If weight tends to gather in your lower body, take notes from the Pear shape.

One variation of the Rectangle shape is what one of my clients dubbed the “hourtange.” Not as curvy as an hourglass but not perfectly straight either, hourtangles lie somewhere in between. If you’re unsure whether you’re an hourglass or a Rectangle, try on pants to determine which shape you align with. Hourtangles typically avoid gapping waistbands, a problem that hourglasses often face. Whether you’re an hourglass or a Rectangle, the goal is to enhance your natural curves.

Another variation is the “I” shape, or the banana body, often described as lanky. This type of Rectangle is very straight, and the goal is to create curves and movement.

The opposite of the “I” shape is the “H” Rectangle, also known as the brick body shape. This body type is straight as well, but typically not as lean. It could be a muscular or larger-framed Rectangle, or one with extra weight. The goal for this shape is to create curves, while also elongating the figure for a leaner look.

The final variation is the “O” body type, also known as the oval. Some Rectangles distribute weight evenly, maintaining their straight shape. Others gain weight in the midsection, which creates a rounded appearance around the waist. While O-shaped bodies share some characteristics with Apple shapes, the key difference is that O’s typically have narrower shoulders and busts. O-shaped Rectangles can still benefit from following Apple guidelines to address similar challenges.

Since clothing is designed with the Rectangle shape in mind, dressing this body type tends to be easier than others. However, some Rectangles may still feel unsure about how to dress, especially if they don’t align with the typical “I” shape or don’t have a “boyish” physique. By identifying your body shape goals and borrowing advice from your secondary shape, you can make the most of your Rectangle proportions—no matter the variation.

When Styling the Rectangle Body Shape

When dressing a Rectangle body, you can either focus on creating/enhancing curves, or embrace a straighter, more structured shape. The choice is entirely yours, and both approaches can look fabulous. If you have fewer natural curves, it may take more effort to create them.

Tops & Jackets for Rectangles

The right neckline can make a huge difference. Higher necklines, like turtlenecks and crewnecks, work well for a smaller bust and longer neck, while V-necks and scoop necks are better for larger busts and shorter necks. Choose the neckline that complements your upper body best.

If your goal is to create movement or curves on top, look for details like ruffles, color blocking, and diagonal lines. These elements draw the eye and break up the straight lines of your figure.

Belts, drawstrings, and wrap details around the waist help define the midsection and create curves. Peplums are particularly good for creating the illusion of a waist while adding volume to the hips.

For sleeves, try options like cuffed, flutter, bell, or layered sleeves. These add volume and interest to the upper body.

Rectangles can wear oversized styles well, but be sure to balance the volume by creating structure elsewhere. For example, pair an oversized top with fitted sleeves or a half-tuck to avoid being overwhelmed by fabric.

If you prefer a more flowing look or want to camouflage your midsection, go for draped fabrics or knits with a relaxed fit. For those aiming to create curves, structured, fitted knits are ideal.

Dresses for Rectangle Body Shapes

The waistline of a dress should always match the natural waist. A fit-and-flare style is flattering for some Rectangles, while others may prefer shift or swing dresses if their waist is less defined.

Shirt dresses are another great option for Rectangles, whether or not they feature a belt.

To enhance curves, try a fitted sheath dress or a wrap dress that accentuates your figure.

Jumpsuits and rompers are stylish alternatives to dresses and can be just as flattering on a Rectangle body. Use the same guidelines for choosing dresses when selecting these options.

Bottoms for Rectangle Body Shapes

For Rectangles, bottoms are relatively flexible. To add curves to your lower half, try wearing very fitted skirts, jeans, and pants.

If you’re comfortable embracing a straighter silhouette, any style of bottoms works. The key is to maintain balance between your top and bottom halves. For instance, pair a top with puff sleeves with bootcut jeans to create visual equilibrium.

Skirt styles are varied for Rectangles. Ruffles, pleats, and cargo pockets add volume to the hips, giving the illusion of curves. Conversely, straight, bias, and pencil skirts are ideal for those with straighter hips.

Skirts that flare from the waist will also create volume, making your waist appear smaller. The right pairing of top and skirt is what matters most, rather than the skirt style itself.

Styling Tips for Rectangles

Start by investing in a well-fitting bra. No matter your specific Rectangle shape, the right bra will help you maximize your figure and is the foundation of any flattering wardrobe. For more tips, check out our podcast episode on finding the perfect bra.

Use accessories to highlight the areas you love, add volume to places you’d like to fill out, or create long vertical lines. Short statement necklaces or stud earrings draw attention to the bust, while longer necklaces help elongate the figure.

To create the illusion of a waist, try wearing a column of color under a contrasting outer layer, and add a wider belt to define the middle.

Ultimately, styling a Rectangle body is about how the pieces of your outfit work together. Try on full outfits, experimenting with different combinations to find the right balance.

As Audrey Hepburn said, “Happy girls are the prettiest.” The key is to wear what makes you feel great, whether you strictly follow the “rules” or not. Both approaches work, as}