The 5 Body Types: The Rectangle

The Rectangle

There are two things that can drastically change the quality of your wardrobe. One is knowing what your best colors are, and the other is knowing your body type and how to dress it. One of the biggest problems with buying online or buying an item you saw your favorite influencer wear is that they most likely don’t have the same body type as you; therefore, it won’t fit you the same. Today, we’ll be discussing one of the five different body types and the best ways to dress for it. And remember, everybody type has different ways of manifesting. You can wear a size two or a size 16 and still be the same body type. You also have to be honest with yourself when determining your body type. We’re not figuring out what you body looked like in your 20s nor what you body type would be if you lost 20lbs. We are determining the body type you have right now. 

Today’s body type is all about the rectangle, commonly known as banana or boyish shape. The rectangle body type is characterized by having an equal width of shoulders-bust area and hips. The waist can appear ever so slightly smaller but not enough to be described as snatched or super defined. Some celebrity examples inlcude Cameron Diaz, Zendaya, Taylor Swift, and Kendall Jenner.

How To dress this body type

The main goal when dressing the rectangle body type is to define and create a waist. Once that occurs, the shape of the body is now balanced. That means virtually any neckline can work for the rectangle. We just want to make sure we’re choosing tops that snatch the midsection and create a shape. Outfit combos that have a lot going on both the top and the bottom draw attention, making the waist seem smaller. High-waisted pieces or even an A-line dress work great for this body type. Something that doesn’t suit the rectangle or those shapes stretchy bodycon dresses and bodysuits. They literally do nothing for you, especially when it’s a harsh square neckline. Anything with a tie, gathering, or rouching around the waist is a better option. 

These dresses are exactly what we want for a rectangle body type. The deep on the cream satin dress leads into the waist line forces our eye down to the midsection to create a nice snatched effect. The A-line style is also a favorite for the this body type. Th green dress is made of a stiffer fabric, which is some cases could be tricky, but the gathering and pulling at the center really brings in the waist, making it more defined.

Again, the creating a waist is super important for this body type. Peplum, like in the white example, is a controversial style. However, it’s literally made for the rectangle body because it adds dimension in a fun and unique style. Or you can go for a more classic route by wearing tops that have a tie around the center. If you do this, remember to always either tie your bow in slightly to the side or to the back, never directly in front . Tops with boning or corset style also help bring in that snatched waist effect which we love.

For bottoms, the best style is usually going to be high waisted. When the skirt or pant hits at the smallest part of your midsection, the eye automatically makes thinks you now have a smaller waist than you do. For some added help, a tie belt, also tied to the side or back, can enhance cinching affect.

Pieces to Avoid

There are unfortunately, a few pieces you should steer clear from. A tube top is not your friend. Unless you plan to use it as a layering piece under a see through through shirt or jacket, it’s usually not going to work for you. Those shapeless bodycon stretchy dresses that everyone loves to wear are also not your friend. They do nothing for your body. There needs to be some structure and shape to the dress before you put it on with ruching, pulling, or gathering. Another thing you may like but does not like you back are slip dresses. Again, it’s shapeless and doesn’t accentuate the part of your body that needs the most help.

Summary

Each body type has its own unique quirks you have to work around when dressing it to look its best. Your body isn’t difficult. You simply need to learn what works for it and what doesn’t work for it. The rectangle frame is waistless, meaning you want to focus on choosing items that give you a waist. Boxy dresses and bodycon numbers are not going to give you the look you want. The high waist is your friend, regardless of it’s in style or not. Feel free to play around with necklines and pant styles. Just make sure the items you buy are snatching you in the way you deserve.