BODY SHAPE GUIDE
Pear Body Shape
A pear body shape (also called triangle) is defined by hips that are noticeably wider than the shoulders, with a waist that’s usually well-defined. But remember: body shape is about your overall proportions, not your size or measurements.
The goal isn’t to “correct” your shape — it’s simply to understand which proportions and silhouettes you enjoy wearing most.
Is This Your Body Shape?
You may have a pear body shape if your hips are noticeably wider than your shoulders, with a defined waist in between.
Your hips are wider than your shoulders.
Your waist is fairly defined.
Your shoulders and upper body tend to look narrower than your lower body.
Your body shape is about proportion — not weight, size or measurements.
The Pear Styling Principle
When dressing a pear shape, an easy starting point is to bring a little visual attention upward and let your lower half move in softer, flowing fabrics. This doesn’t mean you need to hide your hips — small details like neckline, shoulder shape and proportion can make a big difference.
Think of these as styling tools, not rules. The best outfit is always the one that makes you feel comfortable and like yourself.
Styles to Wear More Intentionally
These styles aren’t “wrong” for a pear shape. They may simply draw more visual weight to your hips or create a different balance than you’re going for.
- ×Skinny bottoms with boxy tops — Pairing a very fitted bottom with a wide, unstructured top can emphasise the hip-to-shoulder difference.
- ×Heavily embellished or patterned bottoms — Bold detail on the lower half can draw extra attention to the hips.
- ×Very tight, clingy fabrics on the hips — Fabrics with no give can cling in ways that feel less comfortable.
- ×Skipping shoulder detail entirely — Leaving the upper body very plain can make the silhouette feel less balanced.
What Tends to Work Well
Add volume up top — Structured shoulders, statement sleeves or a boat neck can help balance your proportions.
Define your waist — A belt or fitted waistline highlights the narrowest part of your frame.
Choose A-line silhouettes — Skirts and dresses that skim over the hips tend to flow beautifully.
Try wrap and belt details — A wrap top or dress adds shape and interest to your upper body.
Look for boat necks and horizontal lines — Wider necklines visually broaden the shoulder line.
Pick fabrics with movement on the bottom — Soft, flowing fabrics on skirts and trousers glide rather than cling.
4 Easy Pear Outfit Ideas
Looking for a simple place to start? These four outfit ideas show different ways to bring balance between your shoulders and hips.
Boat Neck Basics
A wide boat neck top with a flowing A-line skirt broadens the shoulder line and skims over the hips.
Finding Balance
A structured blazer with wide-leg trousers creates visual balance from shoulder to hem.
Statement Sleeve
A puff-sleeve top adds volume up top, paired with straight jeans for an easy, balanced look.
Dark-Light Contrast
A darker tone on the bottom with a lighter, brighter piece on top is a simple trick to draw the eye upward.
Explore Your Pear Style
How to Dress a Pear Shape
Learn how fit, proportion and silhouette can work together to create outfits you love.
Explore the Guide →
Pear Outfit Ideas
Get inspiration for casual days, work, weekends and special occasions.
See Outfit Ideas →
Pear Wardrobe Essentials
Discover versatile pieces that can form the foundation of a pear-friendly wardrobe.
View Essentials →
Pear Style Formulas
Simple outfit combinations you can repeat, adapt and make your own.
Explore Formulas →
Not Sure You’re a Pear?
Every body is different, and you don’t need to fit perfectly into one category. If you’re unsure which body shape guide is most relevant to you, take the quiz or explore all body shapes.
