If you have a sporty body shape, meaning neither your shoulders, waist, or hips are broader and your figure tends to be straight, you can choose the body parts to accentuate: either your tops or your bottoms can be oversized/dominating, but never both at the same time.

What kinds of basics to choose

Important tip: try and highlight your waist at all times! This body shape – as the name itself suggests – has nice shoulders and upper arms, and even if you were to gain a few kilos, these tend to spread themselves out evenly across the core. A basic rule of thumb for this shape, as it’s simple, is to select tailored, more complex, or layered outfits, and to liven up simple outfits a bit, especially around the waistline. Here the cut of the neckline will be determined by bust size: bigger breasts should have a V neckline, but smaller, round necklines go better with average size or smaller breasts, (think classic t-shirts with a round neckline, for example). This particular body shape is great for layered clothing, which can help highlight your upper body, and for tight-fitting trousers. Both oversized blazers and slim fit vests are excellent choices, while your not-too-narrow waist can be accentuated with a belt. When it comes to dresses, several kinds can be worn, including an A-line style, since its downwards widening shape makes the waist look thinner. In addition to the above, feel free to experiment with various sleeve styles that can make your shoulders look broader.

• A-line skirts
• Dresses: A-line, straight & stretched at the waist, empire tailoring line, or overlapping style
• Straight cut trousers and widelegged trousers with layers and a wide waist
• Shirts and blouses with patterns (depending on size), wider collars, frills or V-neck
• Sleeveless tops – with large necklines
• Tailored coats