Last Updated on October 11, 2023 by Candi Randolph
Wouldn’t it be lovely to go shopping and have a clear vision of which styles look best on you? Head straight for the accessories that will compliment your body shape? Be spot on with the colors, patterns and textures that will look great on you and increase your confidence?
When you learn how to dress for your shape as a woman over 50 it can make shopping for clothes less stressful. And, it’s much easier to put outfits together that you love and will actually wear time and again…and feel great in. It’s as simple as knowing if you’re an apple, or a pear, perhaps a rectangle or spoon. Say what???
The analogy of comparing our body shape to a fruit or a shape has been around for quite awhile, and you may be familiar with the terms used in this context: Apple, Pear, Hourglass, Rectangle, Triangle, Spoon, Banana, or Bell. These are the terms used most often, and it really does make sense if you think about it.
We can relate to the shape of fruit and remember it easily. Same goes for an hourglass, or a rectangle. The terms give us a visual picture to keep in our pretty little heads and use as we select clothes and accessories. It certainly does not define us as women, and how we ultimately choose to dress is up to us.
But, I think that having an image in our mind and some guidelines to help us choose the most flattering clothes is not a bad thing! As we get older our shape changes, too. It’s a natural part of the aging process.
So, let me ask you this question: Do you know what your body shape is? If you do, that’s cool, keep reading. If you’d like to know how to figure out what your body shape is, hop over to this site and take the quick quiz, then come back: https://www.calculator.net/body-type-calculator.html
I researched a number of sites and found this one to be simple, quick and easy to navigate, with the results being classed into one of four shapes:
- Apple, or Inverted Triangle
- Banana, Straight or Rectangle
- Pear, Spoon, Bell or Triangle
- Hourglass or ‘X’ Shape
In each of the quizzes I completed (I mean, why take just one when you can take 6, right?) my results were a bit fuzzy. I’m not one definite body shape. I’m somewhere between a Pear and an Hourglass. My bust is on the small side and I have curvy hips, but the actual measurement of both is not that different, and I have a definite waistline.
How about you? What is your body shape?? You may find that it’s not 100% clear cut, like me. But I think you’ll see how understanding your overall body shape will help you define your personal style and make wiser fashion decisions.
Let’s delve further into what each body shape means, how to dress for your shape, and we’ll see how to put it together in outfits for women over 50.
There’s a lot of information here, ladies, and not to worry. I’ve got a free printable for you to use as a helpful reference when shopping or putting outfits together. You can get access to it at the bottom of the post.
If you click on a link and then make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!
Three main body shapes, or types, were first developed by American psychologist William Herbert in the 1940’s; endomorph, mesomorph & ectomorph.
britannica.com
How to Dress for Your Shape
Apple Body Shape:
The Apple shape describes a person who has broader shoulders and bust than they do hips. Some of us are genetically created with an apple shaped body, and for others it can occur to an extent with menopause and beyond. It can also be referred to as an Inverted Triangle body type.
You know, our little friend belly fat? That maturing process can actually give us more of an Apple body type as we age.
Characteristics of an Apple Body Shape:
- No defined waist
- Weight tends to form on the stomach
- Average bust size
- “Top Heavy” with a wide torso, broad shoulders, full bust, waist and upper back
- Tend to have thinner arms and legs and narrow hips
Quick Outfit Tips for an Apple Body Shape
- Create the illusion of a waist without drawing attention to it – stay away from bulky belts
- Emphasize your bust line with a V-neck, an A-line dress, etc
- Flattering tops include scoop necks, tops with a narrow bodice or strapless
- Tunic and tops longer than your hip bones work well
- Keep it simple at the neckline with no elaborate necklaces or fancy fabric patterns near the neck
- Stay away from halters, high necklines, boat necks and off-shoulder looks
- Tailored blazers, open cardigans and dusters work well with this body type
- Show off your legs with a skirt or dress length that is comfortable for you
- Stay away from big, heavy boots – this will make your legs look smaller
- Skinny jeans and leggings can work well, especially when paired with a longer tunic style top
- Pants with back pockets will provide definition to your bottom and help balance out your waist
- Denim, trouser cut, wide leg and boot cut pants or jeans work well
- High waisted cuts for pants and shorts create a more flattering look
- A higher heel on your shoes – whatever you feel comfortable in – will balance out your shape and highlight your legs
- Material – stay away from clingy fabrics, look for textured or woven fabrics
- 👜 FASHIONABLE DESIGN: Our womens handbags designed with smooth top zipper closure, the cute purses for women comes with a long removable shoulder strap and unique flower pendant, show elegant lady charm
- 🙆 HIGH QUALITY: This womens purses is made of good quality PU leather fabric and polyester lining, equipped with gold tone shiny hardware and smooth stitching, which makes the hand bags, purses for women more durable
- 😍 ENOUGH SPACE: This leather womens purse has 2 interior zipper pocket, 2 interior open pockets and one small back zipper bag, which can hold an iPad mini, phone, wallet and some small stuffs
- Fits all kinds of figures and you will feel close but free under this shirt, show your perfect figure.
- Good for daily wear, Works great with under sweaters, jackets, coats or wear on its own.
- A basic tops and chic tees for women, goes well with your jeans, shorts, leggings or skirts.
- Full grain leather upper
- Molded, padded cork latex and suede wrapped footbed with arch support
- Rubber outsole
- Sterling silver hoop earring with flared silhouette featuring elaborate filigree cutouts
- Click-top closure
- Imported
- 1×1 long sleeve
- Relaxed fit- runs true to size
- High quality, soft hand and is lightweight
- High Rise: Sits above waist
- High rise: 10 1/4″, Leg opening: 17 3/4″,Measurements based on size 27 waist
- Slim through hip and thigh
- Elegant Aviator Sunglasses for Women: The Jessica Simpson aviator sunglasses for women feature an elegant style with a metal top bar and leaf design logo temple, adding a touch of glamour for any occasion – grab an extra pair as a backup; the perfect gift for women
- UV400 Lens Protection: With UV400 protection, these sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays, keeping them safe in style year-round, even on cloudy days when UV rays are just as strong; color shown: brown to pink
- Lightweight and Comfortable Frame: Made with a lightweight metal frame and clear adjustable nose pads, these sunglasses are comfortable to wear all day long without weighing you down; color shown: rose gold with rose temple tips
Rectangle or Banana Body Shape
The Rectangle, sometimes referred to as the Banana shape, references the body type that does not have a lot of curves. It is also referred to as an athletic shape, and is the body type often found on models.
Characteristics of a Rectangle Body Type
- No defined waist
- Hips are about the same width as the shoulders
- Not a lot of curves
- Small or average size bust with a rectangle shape
- Weight is pretty evenly distributed
Quick Outfit Tips for a Rectangle Body Shape
- Tops like halter styles, scoop and round neckline and anything strapless works well
- Statement collars and embellished necklines are flattering
- Tops tucked in can create the illusion of more waistline
- Accessorize with belts, heavier belts work well if you are long waisted
- 3/4 sleeves are a good choice for this body type
- Short jackets that end at or just below the waist are a good choice
- Peacoats, dusters, bomber jackets all work well
- Almost any style of pants work well with a rectangle body shape
- Skinny jeans or leggings work well with an oversized top
- Statement earrings, layered necklaces and chunky bangle bracelets are good choices
- Dresses in many styles work well, including shift style dresses. Add a belt to create a waistline with a rectangle body
- Shoes in many styles will work, including ankle straps if your legs and ankles are slim
- SNUG FIT COMFORT: These high-waisted skinny jeans for women are designed to hug your hips, thighs, and legs, providing all-day comfort with a sleek silhouette that complements your natural waist
- ALL-DAY STRETCH: Crafted from a cotton blend, these jeans offer great stretch and flexibility, providing a better fit and ease of movement with every wear
- WARDROBE VERSATILITY: These high rise skinny jeans for women are great for pairing with cropped tops or any outfit, offering a flattering look to match your unique style
- GENUINE LEATHER: Leather upper is easy to clean and maintain, and perforated details on the leather add visual interest
- ALL-DAY COMFORT FOOTBED: Anatomically molded EVA footbed provides foot-conforming, flexible, and lightweight impact absorption
- SOFT, MICROFIBER INTERIOR: Microfiber lining creates a breathable feel so you feel cool and confident
- ★Classic and Elegant Appearance: Cute and fashionable looking will bring elegantly and especially when you are in many people. The leather band and big face will add simple elegance to your accessories. It is an ideal companion for you
- ★Easy to Read: Round glass dial window with a large numeral and clear visible hour and minute scale make the watch easy to read. This watch is medium and lightweight, the soft leather band can provide strong using and comfortable wearing experience
- ★Keeps Time Accurately: This watch is simple, practical and fashionable. Analog display and Japanese quartz movement make it with good quality and work great to keep time accurately
- Material: The handbag made from high quality cowhide leather with gold hardware, bottom with light gold hardware protection. Dark brown interior polyester lining. Zippered opening closure.
- Dimensions: (L)11.40″ x (W)5.11″ x (H)8.86″, with approximately 5.9 inch handles, with a removable and adjustable long shoulder strap (the longest is about 51.97″ inch). Convenient & Comfortable to wear in 3 ways: Tote, Shoulder and Cross Body.
- Structure: Exterior 1 back pocket with zipper closure, easy taking things (cell phone, keys, money, card and so on) with or out. Interior 2 big compartments, 1 zipper pocket, 1 inner zipper pocket, 2 slip pockets for wallet and cell phone.
- RIAH FASHION – We offer high quality, stylish fashion jewelry & accessories at a very affordable price point. Designed by our talented designers in NYC & LA, our lovely jewelry is a fashion must-have. Discover unique, well-made jewelry & accessories at RIAH Fashion.
- STYLE MADE SIMPLE – Find both classic staples & trendy items from RIAH collection. Wear our fashion statement pieces to a holiday party, prom, date night, or any special occasion and shine! Pair with your favorite cocktail dress for a fabulous look or with your everyday casual for effortless chic style.
- GREAT VALUE – Enjoy high-end quality and gorgeous jewelry. All our beautiful jewelry is Lead & Nickel compliant with all U.S. requirements, lovingly packaged and delivered state-wide.
- Our pieces of jewelry are all plated twice. We initially plate with 18K gold. Afterwhich, they are given a lifetime protective finish Immediately after the process of plating,each piece is checked throughly to make sure the jewellery is evenly plated well and polished.
- All of our vastly experienced craftsman take their time to ensure each link is completely closed to make sure the quality is second to none.
- The chains we used are made from the toughest polished copper available and are comparable with silver chain after plating and protective finish.
Pear Body Shape
A Pear shaped body can be visualized pretty easily. Think of a body type where the shoulders are narrow, the waist is wider, and the hips are wider than the waist. Learn how to dress and be confident with a pear shaped body!
Characteristics of a Pear Shaped Body
- curvy hips and generous rear
- smaller torso
- narrow shoulders compared to the hips
- small in the bust is typical of this pear shaped body type
- waist is wider than the bust
Quick Outfit Tips for a Pear Body Shape
- Bright colors and prints work well in tops, will broaden shoulders
- Draw attention away from the hips and thighs, and to the torso area
- Plunging V-neck, scoop neck, boat neck and cowl neck tops work well
- Fitted or structured tops give definition to narrow shoulders and draw attention to the narrow waist – think hourglass
- Wide sleeves like bell and kimono work well
- Use layers in the tops – tanks, blouses, cardigans
- Longer tops should skim over the hips, but not reach down to the thighs
- A-line and princess cuts and waist length jackets work well with the pear shape
- Dresses with embellished necklines, open backs, dramatic sleeves and belted styles will flatter a pear shape
- Keep hemlines right below the knee
- Bottoms should be darker colors with no details at the hip or in the rear
- Pants that have straight legs or are flared at the bottom work well
- Shoes with a pointed toe can elongate your legs and make the hips look more proportional
- Jewelry choices include statement, chunky and layered necklaces that hit above the bust, and large earrings work well
Note: The pieces below are similar to those shown in the image. The original pieces are no longer available.
- Material: Wide-cut blouse made from lightweight and non-stretchy chiffon material, 95% polyester 5% spandex. Women’s chiffon blouse is lightweight, soft, comfortable, and breathable to wear
- Features: Casual chiffon blouse, v-neck, half ruffle split sleeve, two layers design, 3/4 sleeve tops, chiffon shirts loose fit
- Occasion: Perfect wear with legging, skinny jeans, pants, skirts. Appropriate for casual, party, shopping, work, vacation, wedding, home, sleepwear, beach, and other occasions
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Women Shawl Collar Casual Work Office Blazer Cardigan Jacket
- 3/4 length Ruched sleeves Open Front Blazer
- 【No Heel Drop and Friction】The upper is made of high-quality high-stretch knitted fabric, which is breathable and comfortable, not stuffy. The narrowed heel design grabs your heel and adds soft padding without rubbing your heel!
- 【Memory Foam Insole】Memory foam latex insole relieves foot pressure, suitable for long standing and long walking. Can be work flats /office shoes/business casual shoes/teacher shoes for women.
- 【Casual Dress Shoes】Pointed toe flat shoes, cute and fashionable, with smooth lines, slim your feet. The colors are casual and easy to match with any outfit: pants, jeans, dresses, etc.
- Faux Leather Crossbody Purse：The women crossbody bag made of high quality vegan leather and durable golden hardware.
- Dimensions ： 9.6″(L) x 4.5″ (W)x 7.1″(H), adjustable and removable strap is 48-53.9 inch.
- Roomy Structure：The inside has 1 main compartment, 1 zipper pocket and 4 card slot pockets.
- 5 1/2″ (145 mm) W x 1 7/8″ (50 mm) H
- 100% UVA & UVB Protection
- Dangle earrings featuring Celtic triquetra trinity knot drops in oxidized sterling silver
- Celtic knot jewelry inspired by the interlacing and continuous designs prevalent in Celtic artwork, illuminating the interconnectedness and continuity of life
- Oxidized sterling silver is created through a controlled oxidation process to cause a natural tarnish. The slight tarnish is then polished to leave darkened areas in the detailing, most notably to enhance design elements.
- 『Classic Fashion』-Classic Fashion silver cuban chain, a durable and shiny accessory that will elevate your style. This chain comes with a 925 sterling silver clasp that is easy to use and a sturdy lobster claw that ensures the chain stays securely fastened to your neck. The cuban design of the chain gives it a timeless, classic look that will never go out of style.
- 『Suitable chain』-This silver cuban chain necklace is suitable for various collar styles of clothing or can be stacked with other pendants or chains, making it suitable for any place to wear. It is comfortable to wear, making it ideal for all-day wear.
- 『Made in Italian』-It is made with Italian craftsmanship, ensuring perfect silver chain structure technology and high-quality polishing process that make the silver chain necklace show perfect lines and luster, and smooth to the touch.
Hourglass Body Shape
The Hourglass body shape (no fruit comparison for this one!) is pretty much what you see when you look at an actual hourglass. The bust and hips, both usually generous, are about equal with this body type. The waist is narrower compared to the other measurements. Thus, the ‘hourglass’.
Characteristics of an Hourglass body shape
- Curvy hips
- Generous bust
- Waist narrower compared to hips and bust
- Considered the ‘perfect’ body shape
Quick Outfit Tips for an Hourglass Body Type
- Snug, fitted tops that nip in slightly at the waist will prevent the bust from looking out of balance
- V-neck, V-neck halters, sweetheart and scoop necklines work well
- Tops that extend below hipbone will be slimming
- Short, shaped jackets work well as do those that stop just above the hips; belted coats like trench coats are flattering
- Belted waistlines and peplums accentuate the narrower waist
- Shapewear can go a long way toward controlling the belly fat that we naturally acquire in midlife
- Pants that have a slight flare or are boot cut are slimming; skinny jeans should be regular length, not cropped
- Avoid low rise pants, stick with mid or high rise
- Wrap tops and dresses flatter the waist (may not be so for petite women or those with a short waist)
- Classic cut skirts like A-line and pencil style are flattering
- Soft fabrics that drape work well
- Think ‘vintage’ with dresses
- Avoid stiff fabrics, may end up looking boxy
- Solid colors are the most flattering, or color block with the waist being the point of color change
- Dark colors and vertical stripes (subtle) will downplay curves
- Heels can elongate the leg; flats may make your legs look short and thick with this
- Long necklaces that hang to a ‘V’ as well as large, interesting bracelets will draw attention to the waist
- Soft Polyester Shell: This trench coat for women adopts tightly woven 100% polyester fabric with water repellent finish that beads off light moisture and blocks cool wind, delivers smooth all-day comfort as women’s daily overcoat.
- Double-Breasted Windproof Design: Classic lapel trench coat comes with full button placket to reduce wind penetration; adjustable snap cuffs lock in warmth, a structured double-breasted outerwear for spring fall days.
- Multi-Scene Tailored Fit: The Women’s overcoat comes with a removable waist belt for slim or relaxed silhouettes; it pairs perfectly with sweaters, t-shirts, jeans, casual pants, dresses and suits for office, commute and weekend trips..
- FLATTERING PEPLUM DESIGN: Features a classic flare peplum hem that accentuates the waistline while providing a stylish, feminine silhouette that complements all body types.
- DURABLE STRETCH FABRIC: Made with a high-quality blend of 96% Polyester and 4% Spandex, offering a comfortable fit with excellent shape retention and minimal wrinkling.
- VERSATILE WARDROBE STAPLE: This elegant fit-and-flare top transitions effortlessly from a professional office look with slacks to a casual weekend outfit with jeans.
- Let the healing properties of this exquisite stretch bracelet ground your spirit, deflecting negative energy. Featuring strands of stunningly alluring, onyx gemstone chips for a touch of glam in any ensemble with an organic feel.
- Measure: 7 Inch L x 1.25 Inch W Fits up to 8.5 Inch Wrist Adjustable Stone: 6MM L x 4MM W Weight: 56 Gram Material: Onyx Stone Due to the naturally occurring characteristics of gemstones, each is unique and may exhibit imperfections such as inclusions, blemishes, and cloudiness, as well as color variations.
- Highlighted by strands of lustrously vivid, chips radiating varying tones of colors, with a nylon stretch cord adding a dash of Boho glam to your look.
- Pointed toe pump with a walkable heel and sleek design
- Leather, metallic leather, suede or fabric upper with a pointed toe
- 3 3/8 inch heel
- Stunning design: These Amazon Essentials .925 sterling silver dangle earrings feature a lightweight oxidized Celtic knot design, offering a sophisticated look
- Comfortable and hypoallergenic: Designed with sensitive skin in mind, these nickel-free and hypoallergenic earrings ensure safe and comfortable all-day wear
- Stylish and versatile: Featuring a leverback design, these dangling earrings are easy to wear and secure, perfect for both casual and formal outfits
- Long Pendant Necklace: This beautiful necklace makes a statement with its long design; Silvertone makes this piece timeless and classic while the circle and tassel pendant add a fun twist
- Everyday Essentials: Whether you’re looking for daily outfits or accessories, we got you covered with high grade, comfortable, and trendy workwear, outerwear, shoes, jewelry, watches, and much more
- Jewelry for Modern Women: Versatility is at the core of our philosophy; Find your inspiration with our line of high fashion earrings, from gold to silver to pearl, from classic hoops to crystal studs
Are these hard and fast rules for body shapes? Of course not! And, many of us fall in between 2 or even 3 body shapes, so some common sense and personalization is in order.
Use these general guidelines as suggestions, and a way to help you choose your fashions as a woman over 50 with some perspective on how your choices affect the overall outfit and look.
That said, understanding how to dress for your shape as a woman over 50 can make the whole experience of shopping for clothes and accessories easier, with a result that gives you more confidence as well as embracing who you are today.
Get your FREE printable, How to Dress for Your Body Shape, right here! It’s part of my Resource Library
You’ll find it in the FASHION section
Like this post? Share it!
resources: Stitchfix.com, Wikihow.com
featured image credit: ID 81052516 © Imagination13 | Dreamstime.com, fruit image credit: ID 85698190 © Yurakp | Dreamstime.com
I’m like you, I don’t think any one of those shapes define mine but actually a mix of two. I’ve learned what clothes look good on me through experience. I can pretty much see something on a hanger and know if it will look good on me or not.
Hi Amy, I’m with you on that! Thanks so much for stopping by.
Great Post! You are sharing a wonderful post. I really enjoyed reading and found it very helpful to me. Thanks for sharing.
I enjoyed your post on having 2body types. I can never figure out what my body type is. Thanks to you I know now. I’m losing weight and looking forward to buying new clothes. I think you should embrace your natural curls that’s coming from A curly redhead who also struggled growing up in the 1970’s with 2 sisters and mother with bone straight hair.
Hi Deborah, I’m glad you discovered some things about your body type, and shedding some pounds, too. Good for you! I wear my hair natural more often now and am learning to see the beauty in it. Thanks for your encouragement. 🙂
This was super helpful. Thanks for an in-depth and insightful guide on how to dress for your body shape. I really enjoyed it.
Thanks Eva, I’m glad you found this post helpful. 🙂
Candi, a virtual bouquet of thanks for creating this blog for those of us who are past a half a hundred, as I like to say! I get the distinct notion all of your intentions come from the heart.
As a 71-year-old woman who’s 5’3″, I’ve reached the point where I absolutely despise shopping for clothing. I’d rather dig a ditch a mile long. Seriously. And God forbid I should need a dress for some formal affair — a fate worse than death! I shop “petite” brands as often as possible but they’re not so easy to find and many are not within my budget. I can’t wear “longer” anything since the eye is drawn further toward the floor, which makes me look even shorter. Talk about a dress-my-body dilemma! Needing my tops to land at my waistline and having postmenopausal belly pooch is NOT a picnic.
I wonder if any of your other readers can relate.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and struggle, Melanie. I’m sure that many readers (myself included) can relate!
I enjoy your newsletter and look forward to it each week.
Thank you
Thanks so much for your comments, Gloria, they mean a lot to me. 💗