Body shape · Shoulders wider than hips

The inverted triangle body shape

You carry width up top — broad shoulders or chest, narrower hips. The goal is to soften the upper half and add a little presence below so the silhouette evens out.

The goal

Soften the shoulder line; add volume and interest below the waist.

How to tell

  • Shoulders or chest are wider than your hips.
  • You gain weight in the upper body first.
  • Tops fit tight across the shoulders; bottoms run loose.

Skip

  • Shoulder pads and heavy top detail
  • Skinny bottoms that exaggerate the contrast
  • High, wide necklines

What to wear for a inverted triangle shape

  • Softer shoulders, V and scoop necklines
  • Volume and detail below the waist
  • Wider or straight-leg bottoms
  • Darker tops, lighter or patterned bottoms

Not sure of your shape?

Take the 5-question body type quiz, then see the pieces on your own photo.

Frequently asked questions

What is a inverted triangle body shape?

You carry width up top — broad shoulders or chest, narrower hips. The goal is to soften the upper half and add a little presence below so the silhouette evens out.

How do I know if I have a inverted triangle body shape?

Shoulders or chest are wider than your hips. You gain weight in the upper body first. Tops fit tight across the shoulders; bottoms run loose.

How should a inverted triangle body shape dress?

Soften the shoulder line; add volume and interest below the waist. In practice: softer shoulders, v and scoop necklines; volume and detail below the waist; wider or straight-leg bottoms; darker tops, lighter or patterned bottoms.

What should a inverted triangle shape avoid?

Shoulder pads and heavy top detail; Skinny bottoms that exaggerate the contrast; High, wide necklines.

Other body shapes