Nothing Is Wrong With Your Body Shape – It’s Your Clothes That Are The Problem

How many times have you emerged from the changing rooms in one of your favourite stores feeling deflated, frustrated, or even close to tears? If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone.

For so many women, the fitting room experience can feel like a rite of passage – and a rather rubbish one at that.

And almost every time it happens, the first thought is usually:

“What is wrong with my body? Why doesn’t this fit me the way it’s supposed to?”

Let me reassure you right now: there is absolutely nothing wrong with your body.

The problem is the clothes.

Let’s look at it logically. When you try on a pair of shoes and they don’t fit, do you immediately think, “There’s something wrong with my feet”? Of course not. You simply try a different size or style, because it’s about the fit.

So why don’t we apply the same thinking to clothing?

The truth is, we’ve been conditioned not to. From a young age, society teaches women that we should be a certain size or shape. We attach far too much importance to a random number on a label. Trends change every season, convincing us we need something new constantly, and we’re influenced by people whose bodies and lifestyles look nothing like ours – yet we still hope we’ll look the same if we just buy that dress!

But the biggest reason many women struggle when shopping is much simpler:

Most women don’t know their body shape – or how to dress for it.

Understanding your body shape is a complete game changer. When you learn which cuts and silhouettes truly flatter you, shopping becomes easier, getting dressed becomes more enjoyable, and confidence naturally follows.

And it’s important to remember: your body shape can change over time. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations, perimenopause and menopause can all affect your proportions. Many women find that what worked in their twenties no longer feels right after having children – even if they’ve “lost the baby weight.”

Perhaps your hips have become slightly wider. Perhaps your proportions have shifted. Or maybe, like me, you have a lovely C-section shelf – which is why I avoid very high-waisted trousers, because I end up looking like I’m smuggling a panini!

Your body isn’t the problem. It’s simply different — and your wardrobe should evolve with you.

So let’s get back to basics and explore the five most common body shapes.

// The Slender Athletic Shape - defined by a slim frame, small bust, gently defined waist and narrow hips. Shoulders and hips are balanced, creating an evenly proportioned silhouette. It won’t surprise you that many models fall into this category, and women with this shape can wear a wide range of styles beautifully.

// The Hourglass Shape - think curves, curves, curves – with a very defined waist, fuller bust, and generous hips and thighs. Icons like Marilyn Monroe and Sofia Vergara embody this shape. The key here is to highlight the waist without overcomplicating the look. Clean lines, soft tailoring, wrap styles, and subtle waist definition (such as a belt or tucked-in top) work wonderfully.

// The Pear Shape - characterised by narrower shoulders and a smaller waist, with fuller hips and a curvier bottom half. Many pear-shaped women are at least one size smaller on top than on the bottom (hello, Kardashian clan!). The styling goal is balance. Add interest to the upper body with prints, ruffles, embellishment or puff sleeves, while keeping the lower half simple with clean, streamlined trousers and skirts.

// The Strawberry Shape - features a fuller top half, larger bust, and slimmer hips and legs. Strawberry-shaped women often have fantastic legs, which are always worth highlighting. Support is key – investing in a great bra makes a huge difference. Keep detailing minimal on the upper body to avoid adding bulk, and opt for open necklines, wrap dresses, A-line silhouettes, or empire cuts to create balance.

// The Apple Shape - defined by a fuller midsection with little waist definition, paired with slimmer hips, legs, and often a flatter bottom. Many women transition into this shape during menopause due to hormonal changes. Flattering styles include V-necks and scoop necklines, draped or ruched fabrics, wrap designs, and tops that skim over the tummy without clinging. Flat-front trousers and wider-leg styles also help balance the silhouette.

Have you recognised your body shape in the descriptions above? If you’re still unsure, you can download my FREE Body Shape Guide at styledbysarit.com, which includes more detail on each shape and exactly what cuts to choose (or avoid!).

And the next time you feel discouraged in a fitting room, remember:

There is nothing wrong with your body. It’s the clothes.

//

Sarit Shefer is a personal stylist and mum of three. Follow her on Instagram for more.