How to style a Pear/Triangle body shape

The pear body shape is characterised by large hips which are wider than the bust and shoulders.

Key features:

• 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

Dressing a pear-shaped body (also known as a triangle body shape) involves balancing the proportions by minimizing the width of the hips and drawing attention to the upper body.

A pear-shaped body typically has narrow shoulders, a smaller bust, and wider hips or thighs.

Here's a detailed breakdown of what works and what doesn't:

Key Goals:

1. Highlight the upper body to draw attention upward.

2. Create the illusion of a balanced silhouette.

3. Accentuate the waist without emphasizing the hips.

Styles That Work:

Tops:

Necklines: Wide necklines like boat necks, off-shoulders, and scoop necks broaden the shoulders and balance the lower body.

Square necklines, bateau, Sabrina, cowl necklines work great and create an illusion of a wider upper torso 

Sleeves: Puff sleeves, cap sleeves, and ruffled sleeves add volume to the shoulders. 

For long sleeves, keep the hem of the sleeve tapered avoiding any kind of volume, any details can be added on the upper part of the sleeve at the shoulder 

Patterns & Details: Choose tops with embellishments, ruffles, or bold patterns around the shoulders and chest to draw attention upwards.

Length: Tops that end just above or at the hips work best. Avoid tops that stop at the widest part of your hips.

Bottoms:

Fabrics: Opt for structured and heavier fabrics like cotton, denim, or tailored materials to smooth the hip area. Avoid clingy fabrics like jersey.

Styles: A-line skirts, straight-cut pants, and wide-leg trousers balance the lower body. High-waisted options can define your waist without exaggerating the hips.

Colours: Dark, solid colours on the bottom create a slimming effect. Subtle patterns, like pinstripes, also work.

• Avoid overly tight or tapered fits that emphasize the hips.
• Avoid any form of embellishments near the hip like huge pockets, buttons etc 
• Avoid low waist jeans and broad belts as it draws attention to your hips 

Dresses:

Silhouettes: Fit-and-flare, wrap dresses, and empire waist dresses are ideal for highlighting the waist and creating a balanced shape.

Details: Dresses with embellishments or patterns on the bodice help shift focus upwards. Off-shoulder and halter necklines work beautifully.

Length: Knee-length or midi dresses are flattering and draw attention to the slimmer parts of the legs.

Skirts:

Skirts are an excellent way to cover your hips and create a balanced proportion. Choose skirts that add fullness around the hemline avoid shaped skirts like a pencil skirt that emphasize the hips

Jumpsuits: 

Jumpsuits for a pear shaped body should balance out the hips , so choosing light or brighter colours on the top half of the jumpsuits along with embellishments/ details on the upper torso balances out a pear shape

Avoid tapered jumpsuits, choose straight or wide leg options

Blazers & Jackets: Look for structured, tailored jackets with shoulder padding or detailing. Ensure the jacket nips in at the waist and ends above the hips.

Layering: Add long cardigans or dusters that skim over the hips without clinging.

Accessories:

Jewelry: Statement necklaces or earrings draw attention to the upper body.

Belts: Cinch the waist with medium-width belts placed slightly above your natural waistline to elongate the legs.

Scarves: Bright or patterned scarves can shift focus to the upper body.

Styles to Avoid:

Skinny jeans, leggings, or pencil skirts in light or shiny fabrics exaggerate the hips.

Loose, shapeless tops that lack structure can hide your waist and make you look broader.

 These draw attention to the widest part of the hips and shorten the appearance of your legs.

Bodycon dresses that cling to the hips may accentuate the lower half.

 Pro Styling Tips:

          Balance Patterns and Solids:  Use bright or patterned tops with solid, dark bottoms for a harmonious look.

          Layering Wisely: A tailored blazer over an embellished top is a great way to create definition at the waist and balance proportions.

         Tailoring is Key: Invest in tailoring to ensure your clothes fit perfectly, especially at the waist and hips.

Pair flowy tops with structured bottoms, or vice versa, to keep the silhouette balanced.

 Here are a few styles from Just B by Bhavna Chhabria that work great for a pear shaped body 

https://justb.co.in/p/midnight-blue-viscose-tie-dye-circular-maxi-xs

https://justb.co.in/p/printed-viscose-boat-neck-dress-xs

https://justb.co.in/p/cotton-printed-purple-circular-cut-maxi-dress-xs

https://justb.co.in/p/red-ogee-printed-chinnon-dress-xs

The Idea of understanding your body type is to empower yourself to make the right style choices and feel confident & doing this is a personal choice, ultimately wear what keeps you comfortable and confident.