Rectangle

Rectangle body types are relatively rare and are characterized by well-shaped but childlike bodies and small breasts. Rectangle body types are not necessarily petite or short. Their hands and feet are delicate and their heads are larger than average by proportion. Rectangle types tend to have a little "pot belly" even when they're not over weight. Rectangle body types gain weight in their abdomen, thighs and love handles. Nancy Reagan and Vanna White are good examples of a rectangle bodytype.

Shoulder pads and clothing that is poufed at the hips are good choices for a rectangle body type, helping to add the illusion of more curves. Other great choices are Peplum jackets and knitwear that can be belted.

Triangle

Triangle types (or pear shapes) have a lower torso that is usually pronounced, a flat stomach and a prominent rear that is one to two sizes larger than the top. Triangle types tend to gain weight in their rears and thighs, and are prone to saddlebags while their stomachs remain relatively flat and their waists small. Goldie Hawn is a good example of a slender triangle body type.

Triangle types should ALWAYS wear shoulder pads to broaden their shoulders and balance their hips. Choose styles that focus on their small waists. Other good fashion choices include pleated pants, blouses with a lot of detailing and jackets that cover the hips. Dark colors on bottom and bright colors on top draw the eye upward, focusing attention away from the hips.

Hourglass

Hourglass bodytypes have the most balanced body with fairly wide shoulders, defined waist and rounded hips. Hourglass types are usually fine-boned. If an hourglass gains weight, it's usually in the love handles, stomach and thighs but a small waist remains apparent. Elizabeth Taylor is a good example of an hourglass bodytype.

Hourglass types that are not overweight can wear just about any style they choose because their shoulders and hips are proportionately balanced. Hourglass types should accentuate the positive with smart tailoring. For a sleek, more sophisticated look, wear shorter tapered skirts and jackets nipped at the waist. Other good fashion choices include long, fitted jackets, unfussy blouses which prevent a top-heavy look. Tapered slacks and straight skirts. Overweight hourglass types should stay away from the belted look, unless covered by a jacket. Without a jacket, opt for styles that nip in at the waist.

Wedge

Wedge body types have broad shoulders, flat rears, straight legs and a tapered rather than defined waist. Wedge types may also have large, rounded breasts. If a wedge type gains weight, it shows on her stomach, midriff, breasts and arms, with her rear remaining flat and her thighs proportionately slender. Linda Evans is a good example of a wedge body type.

Wedge body types should focus on styles that show off their narrow hips and possible camouflage a large bust, heavy upper arms and midriff. Tapered dresses look great on wedge body types. Big shirts or sweaters over slim skirts and unbelted chemises are also good choices.

Tailoring

I can't stress this enough...tailoring can make a huge difference in the overall look of an outfit. Women and men should expect to tailor their clothing. Two women can both be size 8's, but be different in height, body type and weight. Even 1/4" can make your clothes look more expensive and more flattering. And tailoring will also make you look pounds thinner.

Hosiery

Pay particular attention to your hosiery. Colored hosiery pulls together a look and adds a little extra sophistication. Matching your hosiery to the hem of your garment or shoe makes you look slimmer and taller!

If you are wearing bright colors like orange or neon pink, natural skin-toned hosiery would be the best choice. Be sure to match skin-toned hosiery to your actual skin color or go a little paler -- avoid outdated cinnamon or orangey colored suntan hosiery.

Many people have problems coordinating spectator (two toned) pumps with hosiery. The best choice is to match your hosiery to the lightest color of the shoe. Never wear hosiery that's darker than the lightest color of the shoe or garment.