Body shape and fabric go hand in hand when trying to achieve a smoother and more pleasing silhouette. Of course, it can take some trial and error, but you can save your tears for another day when you know what materials work best with specific body features. From supportive silks and knits to textured fabrics and thick cottons, here are the most flattering materials for every body type.

Elegant and Flowing Materials

If you carry some weight around the midsection yet have slender arms and legs, elegant and flowing materials such as chiffon and viscose are a better option over stiff and/or clingy clothing. Fabrics that drape can help highlight the slimmer parts of your body because they draw the eye downwards. Of course, body shapes change, and something like breast augmentation might change how you want to show off your body by highlighting bulk with clinging materials.

Supportive Silks and Knits

The classic pin-up style body type of a well-defined waist with a balanced bust and hip is considered the most desirable, but it is also the hardest to achieve. Unless you have the correct proportions, this is pretty tricky. If you do have this shape, then you can craft the perfect silhouette with supportive silks and knits. For example, stretchy fabrics like silk wrap dresses complement this shape perfectly, while knits lightly hug your curves to emphasize the waistline.

Body Shape and Fabric with Weight

Often defined as the pear shape, around 20% of women have narrow shoulders, a wide waist, and wider hips. This unusual body type can be a source of anxiety for some women, but using the right fabrics can accentuate the best parts you have, and help you dress for body shape. The key is balancing the upper body with structure and drawing the eye upwards. Fabrics such as linen tops with puff sleeves and heavier denims at the bottom will help smooth the silhouette.

Textured Fabrics and Thick Cottons

Some women have a uniform body type with similar measurements across all major areas, including the shoulder, waist, and bust, with minimal definition around the hips. For this type of shape, you need fabrics that can hold their own shape, and that means textures and thick cottons. By using these types of fabrics, you can build your own curves into the silhouette. For example, a belted blazer can be pulled in to accentuate the midsection for a fake hourglass.

If you have broad shoulders with a larger bust, you may also have narrower hips and waistline. This is a tricky shape to accommodate but one of the most pleasing when dressing for your mind. Soft and fluid fabrics such as breathable cottons can prevent your shoulders from looking boxy and stiff, loosening them up a little. At the same time, you might want to try lightweight and draped knits for the bust area while adding volume to the lower half with an A-line maxi skirt.

Summary

Elegant and flowing materials for a typical apple body type are an example of how body shape and fabric can be used together for a better silhouette and improved confidence. You can also use weighted fabrics for a pear shape and lightweight materials for an inverted triangle shape.