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How to style an inverted triangle body type
The inverted triangle body shape is characterized by broad shoulders and / or bust that narrow down to the hips.
This makes the body appear like an inverted triangle shape.
Wide shoulders
Big bust
Smaller hips
- Shoulders are noticeably wider than the hip-line
- Shoulders may be straight, squared, and strong-looking
- Bust can range from small to big
- Hips look straight and flat compared to broad shoulders
- No defined waist
- Bottom is rather flat
- Great legs often come with this body shape
- Body shape projects a sporty and athletic physique
The goal is to balance the broader shoulders, chest and back with the narrower lower body to create a balanced silhouette.
This is achieved by choosing clothes that add curves to the hips and bottom while creating a more defined waist and de-emphasizing the upper body.
Styles That Work:
Tops:
Necklines: Opt for V-necks, U-necks, and scoop necks to elongate the neck and draw the eye downward. Avoid high necklines, which add bulk to the upper body.
Sleeves: Choose subtle sleeve styles like raglan, dolman, or cap sleeves. Long sleeves with cuff details can also work. Avoid puff sleeves or shoulder pads.
Fabrics & Details: Simple, minimalistic tops in solid colors or with subtle patterns. Avoid loud prints or embellishments around the shoulders.
Length: Tops that cinch at the waist or end at the hips are ideal. Peplum tops can add volume to the lower body.
Bottoms:
Any style that will accentuate and add volume to the bottom and leg line is great for the inverted triangle.
- Baggy trousers, palazzos, harem pants work great
- Choose trousers that are light & bright to bring attention to your legs.
- Add details like prints, embellishments, pockets to add volume.
- If you want to wear more slim-fitted trousers, opt for straight and cigarette-style trousers - they balance out your silhouette better than skinny fits.
Skirts:
Skirts should add volume to the hips and balance out the shoulders.
Any type of skirt style that flares from the hips and/or adds visual width to the hips is best for an inverted triangle body shape.
Straight, full, A-line, ballerina, bias-cut or tulip skirts are great. Tiered, volume or dropped waistlines also work well.
Details such as panels, box pleats or vertical lines at the top ending in a full skirt are good to add dimension and interest to the hip area.
Avoid tight-fitted skirts that hug the hips and visually pull them in.
Dresses:
The right dress for the inverted triangle body adds volume at the hips to balance your shoulders.
To achieve this, look for dresses that flare from the waist or hips. Simple, straight lines, shift dresses and A-line styles are great.
Jumpsuits and playsuits are your best friends if you are an inverted triangle because your broad shoulders let the garments fall nicely down your silhouette.
The only thing you need to make sure is to balance out the wide shoulders with the lower body.
Avoid ruffles, embellishments and details on the upper body. And steer clear of tight-fitted trousers to avoid drawing attention to the broader shoulders.
Jackets for the inverted triangle shape should de-emphasize the shoulders and upper body whilst highlighting the waist.
Pockets or other details below the waist are great to add interest and volume to the hips.
Opt for single-breasted jackets as double-breasted jackets would add too much volume to the upper body.
Jackets should extend beyond the hip line to balance out the wide shoulders. They are best in a darker colour for a slimming effect on the upper body.
Avoid double-breasted buttoning, big collars, shoulder pads and embellishments like epaulettes as they make your broad shoulders appear even broader.
Accessories:
Jewelry: Statement belts or waist-cinching accessories emphasize the waist. Avoid large necklaces that highlight the shoulders.
Bags: Crossbody bags or those carried at the hips draw attention to the lower half.
Scarves: Avoid wrapping scarves around the neck and shoulders. Instead, wear them long to elongate the upper body.
Shoes: Choose shoes that add visual interest, such as boots, wedges, or brightly colored heels. These draw attention downward and balance the overall look.
Styles to Avoid:
1. High Necklines: Turtlenecks, crew necks, or halters emphasize broad shoulders.
2. Heavy Detailing on Tops: Avoid ruffles, embellishments, and shoulder pads that add volume to the upper body.
3. Straight-Lined Bottoms: Pencil skirts or skinny jeans emphasize the narrow hips, making the body look unbalanced.
4. Spaghetti Straps: Thin straps can make broad shoulders look even broader.
5. Cropped Jackets: Short jackets ending at the waist emphasize the upper body.
Pro Styling Tips:
1. Focus on Proportions: Pair minimalistic tops with bold, voluminous bottoms to balance the silhouette.
2. Layer Strategically: Use long cardigans, wraps, or duster coats to create a vertical line that softens the upper body.
3. Color Play: Stick to darker, muted tones on top and brighter, more vibrant colors on the bottom.
4. Tailoring is Essential: Ensure all clothing fits well, especially around the waist and shoulders.
Recommended styles from Just B by Bhavna Chhabria for an inverted triangle body type:
https://justb.co.in/p/printed-viscose-maxi-dress-with-frill-xs
https://justb.co.in/p/tunic-dress-wrap-skirt-set-xs
https://justb.co.in/p/draped-skirt-asymmetric-top-xs-2
https://justb.co.in/p/handloom-cotton-waterfall-jacket-m-2
Remember these are just style guidelines to help you feel empowered in your choices