You've probably seen dozens of articles breaking down different body shapes in detail—but here’s the thing: very few of them explain how to actually figure out your own. Let’s fix that.

1. Visual Analysis: Your Mirror Is Your Best Tool

Forget the measuring tape for now—the most effective way to define your body type is to simply look at your silhouette in the mirror. Stand in fitted clothing or underwear and pay attention to three key areas:

• Shoulders

• Waist

• Hips

Compare these zones to understand your body's natural proportions.

 2. It's All About Proportions, Not Size

Body type has little to do with weight—it’s about the relationship between your shoulders, waist, and hips. Here are the five classic shapes:

• Hourglass: Shoulders ≈ Hips, and a well-defined waist

• Pear (Triangle): Hips wider than shoulders, defined waist

• Rectangle (Straight): Shoulders ≈ Hips, with minimal waist definition

• Inverted Triangle: Shoulders wider than hips, waist may or may not be defined

• Apple (Round): Volume concentrated in the upper body and midsection, usually with slim legs

3. Identify Your Visual Balance and Dominance

Where does the eye naturally go first? That’s your visual weight—and a major clue to your body type. Remember, most people don’t fit perfectly into one category. You might be a pear with rectangle tendencies, or an hourglass with a slightly straighter waist.

4. Try the Photo Method

Still not sure? Take a full-length photo of yourself in tight-fitting clothes. Step away for five minutes, then look at it again. This quick reset helps bypass mental bias—our brains love to “correct” what we see in the mirror. A photo shows your true proportions with more clarity.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your body shape isn’t about labeling—it’s about learning how to dress in a way that celebrates your unique proportions. At Renew.Style, we use this approach to build flattering, functional wardrobes that align with your real life and real body.

 Want help identifying your body type and building the perfect capsule wardrobe? Book a personal styling session with Renew.Style today.