Body Type CalculatorBodyTypeCalculator
Back to Blog
Dressing Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Dressing the Inverted Triangle Body Shape

May 26, 2025

The Inverted Triangle Body Shape is characterized by broader shoulders and/or bust that narrow down to the hips, creating an athletic and strong upper body appearance. Understanding how to dress this body shape can help in creating a balanced and proportionate silhouette.

Understanding the Inverted Triangle Body Shape

Key Characteristics

Individuals with an Inverted Triangle Body Shape typically exhibit the following features:

  • Shoulders are noticeably wider than the hips
  • Bust can range from small to large
  • Little to no waist definition
  • Hips appear straight and flat compared to broad shoulders
  • Slender legs

Recognizing these traits allows for strategic styling to create a balanced and proportionate appearance.

Styling Goals for the Inverted Triangle Body Shape

The primary objective when dressing an Inverted Triangle Body Shape is to balance the proportions by drawing attention to the lower body and minimizing the upper body's prominence. This can be achieved through:

  • Adding volume and interest to the lower body
  • Emphasizing the waistline
  • Choosing clothing that softens the shoulder line

By focusing on these goals, individuals can create a harmonious and flattering silhouette.

Top Fashion Tips for the Inverted Triangle Body Shape

1. Soften the Shoulder Line

Reducing the wide appearance of your shoulders helps in balancing the silhouette:

  • Necklines: Opt for V-necks, scoop necks, and narrow necklines to draw attention downward.
  • Sleeves: Choose raglan, dolman, or kimono sleeves that soften the shoulder line.
  • Avoid: Steer clear of shoulder pads, puff sleeves, and wide necklines like boat necks that emphasize shoulder width.

2. Add Volume to the Lower Body

Enhancing the lower body creates a balanced silhouette:

  • Skirts: A-line, pleated, or tulip skirts add volume to the hips.
  • Pants: Opt for wide-leg, palazzo, or bootcut pants in lighter colors or with patterns.
  • Details: Look for bottoms with pockets, embellishments, or patterns to draw attention.

3. Emphasize the Waist

Creating a defined waistline enhances the overall shape:

  • Belts: Use belts at the natural waist to highlight curves.
  • Wrap Dresses: These cinch the waist and add volume to the lower body.
  • Peplum Tops: They flare at the waist, adding dimension to the hips.

Best Clothing Choices for the Inverted Triangle Body Shape

Tops

Selecting tops that de-emphasize the upper body is essential:

  • Fabrics: Choose soft, draping fabrics like chiffon or silk.
  • Colors: Opt for darker shades on top to minimize the upper body.
  • Designs: Simple, unembellished tops without shoulder details.

Bottoms

Choosing the right bottoms helps balance the silhouette:

  • Styles: A-line skirts, wide-leg pants, and flared jeans.
  • Colors: Lighter or brighter colors to draw attention to the lower body.
  • Patterns: Bold prints or horizontal stripes on skirts or pants.

Dresses

Dresses that add volume to the lower body and define the waist are ideal:

  • A-line Dresses: Flare from the waist, balancing the upper body.
  • Wrap Dresses: Emphasize the waist and add curves to the hips.
  • Avoid: Dresses with embellishments or details on the shoulders.

Accessories and Footwear

Accessories can further enhance the desired silhouette:

  • Statement Belts: Draw attention to the waist.
  • Bold Shoes: Bright or embellished shoes attract the eye downward.
  • Avoid: Necklaces or scarves that add bulk to the upper body.

What to Avoid

To maintain balance, individuals with an Inverted Triangle Body Shape should avoid:

  • Shoulder Pads: They add unnecessary width to the shoulders.
  • Wide Necklines: Styles like boat necks or off-the-shoulder tops.
  • Skinny Jeans: They can make the lower body appear narrower.

Celebrity Inspiration

Looking to celebrities with an Inverted Triangle Body Shape can provide style inspiration:

  • Naomi Campbell: Known for her strong shoulders and balanced outfits.
  • Angelina Jolie: Often seen in attire that adds volume to the lower body.
  • Renee Zellweger: Utilizes styles that define the waist and soften the shoulders.

Conclusion

Embracing the Inverted Triangle Body Shape involves understanding your body's natural proportions and using fashion to enhance and define your silhouette. By focusing on creating balance, emphasizing the waist, and drawing attention to the lower body, you can achieve a harmonious and stylish look that celebrates your unique shape.