How to dress an inverted triangle body shape

Ever tried an outfit that looks fantastic on a friend but doesn't quite suit you? The difference often comes down to body shape – the natural silhouette created by your proportions. Understanding your body shape can transform your wardrobe choices, making shopping easier and helping you feel more confident in your clothes.

At Chums, we believe that style is for everyone, which is why our versatile collection is designed to flatter all body shapes. In this guide, we'll explore the inverted triangle body shape and share practical styling tips to help you look and feel your best.

What is an inverted triangle body shape?

In the world of fashion, body shapes are categorised based on the proportions between three key measurements: shoulders, waist and hips. The main body shape categories include:

• Hourglass
• Rectangle
• Apple
• Pear
• Inverted Triangle

An inverted triangle body shape is characterised by shoulders that are broader than the hips, with the body tapering inward from top to bottom. Typically, those with an inverted triangle shape have:

• Broader shoulders or a wide chest
• A balanced or athletic upper body
• A well-defined waist
• Narrower hips compared to shoulders
• Often slender legs.

Many people with an inverted triangle shape have an athletic appearance, but this doesn't necessarily mean you're sporty. Remember, body shape simply refers to your natural proportions – it's about the relationship between your shoulders, waist and hips rather than your size or fitness level.

How common is inverted triangle body shape?

The inverted triangle is quite common, particularly among athletes and swimmers whose upper body muscles are more developed. However, this shape occurs naturally in many people regardless of their activity level.

According to fashion experts, approximately 15 to 20% of women have an inverted triangle body shape. Many celebrities and fashion icons, including Angelina Jolie, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones, exemplify this body type and showcase how versatile and striking it can be when dressed appropriately.

Men can also have an inverted triangle shape, which is often considered the classic masculine silhouette with broad shoulders narrowing to a slimmer waist and hips. Chums' menswear collection includes plenty of options that complement this natural shape beautifully.

How to style an inverted triangle body shape

The key to dressing an inverted triangle body shape is creating balance between your broader upper body and narrower lower half. Chums' thoughtfully designed clothing range offers many flattering options that work perfectly for this body type. By following these styling principles, you can create visually harmonious outfits that complement your natural proportions.

Balance your proportions

When styling an inverted triangle figure, focus on:

1. De-emphasising the shoulders and upper body

Choose tops with simple, clean lines and avoid details that add volume or draw attention to your shoulder area. V-necks are particularly flattering as they create a vertical line that helps balance width.

2. Adding visual interest and volume to your lower half

Opt for trousers, skirts and details that create the illusion of fuller hips and legs, bringing balance to your silhouette.

Best tops for inverted triangle shapes

For the upper body, simplicity is key:

• V-necks and scoop necks draw the eye down and create a lengthening effect
• Fitted styles follow your natural shape without adding bulk
• Three-quarter length sleeves help balance proportions
• Simple, dark-coloured tops minimise the appearance of the upper body
• Avoid boat necks, off-shoulder styles, and heavily embellished necklines that emphasise shoulder width.

Consider layering tops with open cardigans or jackets with a streamlined fit to help frame your torso without adding bulk to your shoulders.

Flattering bottoms for inverted triangle shapes

For the lower body, look for styles that add curves and volume:

• A-line skirts that flare out from the waist
• Wide-leg trousers or those with decorative details around the hips
• Bright colours and patterns on the lower half to draw attention downward
• Pleated or gathered details that add visual interest and volume.

Boot-cut or slightly flared trousers can be particularly flattering, creating a balanced line from shoulders to feet.

"When dressing an inverted triangle shape, the goal is to soften the shoulder line and bring balance by building volume below – think wide-leg trousers, playful prints, and flared skirts that invite the eye downward and celebrate curves." Phillippa Brooks – Chums Ladieswear buyer.

Philippa's Top Picks:

1. Viscose Print Pleat Front Skirt: Featuring front pleats and available in various patterns, this skirt adds volume to the lower body, creating a balanced silhouette.​
2. Plisse Skirt – 27 Inches: With its fluted hemline and floral patterns, this skirt introduces movement and visual interest, drawing the eye downward.​
3. Floral Plisse Trouser: These trousers combine a relaxed fit with vibrant floral prints, adding both comfort and style to your ensemble.
4. Cord Skirt: The A-line shape and inverted front pleat of this skirt enhance the lower body's volume, offering a flattering look.​
5. ​Lined Soft Jersey Skirt: Designed with godet inserts, this skirt provides extra flare and movement, ideal for balancing broader shoulders.​

"These selections focus on adding volume and interest to the lower half, helping to achieve a harmonious and flattering silhouette for inverted triangle body shapes."

Dresses and one-piece options

When choosing dresses:

• Wrap dresses are universally flattering and help define the waist
• Fit-and-flare styles balance broader shoulders with a fuller skirt
• Empire waistlines draw attention away from shoulders and toward the waist
• Avoid straight shift dresses that don't create definition at the waist.

Accessories to complement your shape

Accessories can play a crucial role in styling an inverted triangle body:

• Statement belts to define and draw attention to your waist
• Eye-catching footwear to draw the eye downward
• Handbags carried at hip level to add visual width to the lower body.

By following these guidelines and exploring Chums' versatile collection, you can create outfits that complement your inverted triangle shape beautifully. Remember, these are just suggestions – the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Understanding your body shape isn't about following strict rules but rather finding styles that help you look and feel your best. With these tips in mind and Chums' quality fashion pieces at hand, you can shop more effectively and build a wardrobe that truly flatters your inverted triangle figure.