How To Dress Better for an Inverted Triangle-Shaped Body

A how-to guide on dressing better for an Inverted Triangle-Shaped Body

Look Amazing Dressing for an Inverted Triangle-Shaped Body

The inverted triangle shape is when you have broad shoulders and narrow hips. With this body type the trick is to draw the eye to your waist and below to create some symmetry. The solution is to balance your proportions by adding volume to your lower half—think wide-leg slacks, flared skirts, and flowy materials. Scoop and V-necklines serve to soften the upper body while making you look balanced and stylish. I personally fall into this category along with the likes of Zendaya, Victoria Beckham, Charlize Theron and Angelina Jolie.

Mastering the Art of Proportion

With an inverted triangle body shape, your shoulders naturally take center stage. The key to dressing well? Creating visual balance by softening the upper body and adding volume to your lower half. Think flowy skirts, wide-leg pants, and outfits that draw attention downward without overwhelming your frame.

Tops: Soften & Streamline

Your upper body already has presence, so the goal here is to soften, elongate, and avoid adding unnecessary bulk. Opt for deep necklines, delicate fabrics, and minimal embellishments around the shoulders. Wrap tops, V-necks, and streamlined blouses work wonders to create a balanced look.

Best Top Styles:

  • V-neck and scoop neck tops to elongate the neckline
  • Wrap tops to create subtle curves
  • Sleeveless or halter tops to show off your arms without exaggerating width
  • Soft fabrics that drape elegantly
  • Peplum tops to define the waist and add dimension to the hips
  • Avoid shoulder pads, epaulets, or overly structured shoulders

Bottoms: Volume, Flow & Shape

Here’s where the fun begins! To balance out your strong shoulders, bottoms should create a sense of volume and movement. A-line skirts, wide-leg trousers, and anything with a bit of flair will create proportion while adding a touch of elegance to your look.

Best Bottom Styles:

  • Wide-leg pants for a fluid, balanced silhouette
  • A-line skirts that add volume to the lower body
  • High-waisted trousers to emphasize curves
  • Flowy midi and maxi skirts for effortless movement
  • Bootcut and flared jeans to balance the upper half
  • Avoid super-skinny jeans or anything that over-emphasizes a tapered lower body

Dresses: Creating Harmony

Dresses should work to create curves and movement, enhancing the lower half while maintaining elegance up top. Styles that highlight the waist, add volume at the hips, and keep the upper portion sleek will be your best friends.

Best Dress Styles:

  • Fit-and-flare dresses for an instant balanced look
  • Wrap dresses to enhance the waistline
  • Empire waist dresses to create a soft, feminine shape
  • A-line dresses that flow effortlessly over the hips
  • Off-the-shoulder or asymmetrical dresses to soften the upper body

Accessories & Styling Tricks

  • Statement Belts: Cinch your waist to add shape and definition.
  • Flowy Scarves & Long Necklaces: Draw the eye downward for a lengthening effect.
  • Chunky or Patterned Bottoms: Play with prints and textures on skirts and pants to add volume where needed.
  • Soft, Feminine Hairstyles: Waves, side parts, and soft curls can balance sharp shoulder lines.
  • Pointed-Toe or Ankle-Strap Shoes: Direct attention to your lower half for an elongated, polished look