Body Shapes Explained: A Visual Guide
Body shape describes the silhouette created by your bust, waist, and hip proportions. Unlike body type (which relates to metabolism), body shape is about styling and proportion.
Hourglass
Bust and hips are close in width with a noticeably narrower waist, creating a naturally balanced, curved silhouette.
Pear
Hips are noticeably wider than the bust, with a defined waist; weight tends to sit lower on the body.
Apple
The midsection (waist) is the widest part of the torso, with a less defined waistline relative to bust and hips.
Rectangle
Bust, waist, and hips are all roughly the same width, giving a straight, athletic silhouette with minimal curve definition.
Inverted Triangle
Shoulders and bust are noticeably broader than the hips, often with an athletic upper body and narrower lower half.
Body shape vs. body type
Body type (ectomorph, mesomorph, endomorph) describes your metabolism and how easily you gain or lose weight and muscle. Body shape (hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, inverted triangle) describes the silhouette created by your bust, waist, and hip measurements, useful for styling and fashion regardless of your body type.
How the calculator works
Enter your bust/chest, waist, and hip measurements. We compare the ratios between them (how close your bust and hips are in width, and how much smaller your waist is) to classify your shape into one of five categories. Everything runs in your browser; no data is sent to a server.
Frequently asked questions
Can my shape change?
Body shape is largely determined by skeletal structure and fat distribution patterns, which can shift somewhat with significant weight change, but the underlying proportions tend to stay fairly consistent.
How do I dress for my shape?
The goal is balance: add visual volume where your frame is narrower and streamline where it is wider. Each shape profile includes specific wear and avoid recommendations tailored to your proportions.
Is one shape better?
No, every body shape can look great with the right styling. This tool is about understanding your proportions so you can dress to highlight what you love, not about ranking shapes.