Don’t let things go pear-shaped: dress to complement your body shape

Big bottoms weren’t always the look to love, but thanks to the likes of celebrities such as J-Lo and Beyoncé, the classic pear shape is definitely the figure du jour, and shops are well aware of the fact, adding lines such as pants with built-in curves so women with less curvy posteriors can get that desirable pear silhouette too.

So, if you’re lucky enough to be a natural pear, here’s how to make the most of your much sought-after figure.

Dresses

Shift dresses, full-skirt dresses, smock and empire line dresses are all great options for pear shapes. The classic shift dress is flattering for most body shapes, but it works well for pear shapes as its A-line cut glides over the hips and thighs. Dresses with a fitted top half and a full skirt are also handy for covering any areas you don’t want to draw too much attention to.

However, if you’re up for showcasing your curves, a bodycon dress isn’t out of the question – just opt for block colours, and darker shades on the bottom half.

You could also try out an illusion dress. This style of dress uses colours and ‘magic eye’-style trickery to create a silhouette that’s only part of the truth! We’re clearly a little bit in love with illusion dresses as they also featured in our guide to dressing apple body shapes which you can check out here.

Trousers

Pear shapes should keep it simple when it comes to choosing trousers. Darker tones will always help create a slender look, and cuts such as skinny, tapered, and straight are the most flattering. High-rise jeans are a must, especially if you’d rather avoid the muffin top look.

Tops

These are the items where pear-shaped ladies can really go to town. Funky prints, crazy patterns, bold colours, whatever style you’re into, this is where to show it off. Going all out on the top half means your bottom half will ‘pale into insignificance’, if that’s how you want to work it of course. Think of it all as a cunning way of balancing things out; by playing up your best part, people will notice the bits you’re most comfortable with first. However, try to avoid tops that end at your hips. As this is the widest point on your silhouette, it’s the least flattering place for your tops to end.

Accessories

Again, keep your accessories focused on your top half, or at your waist. Big necklaces and earrings will draw attention upwards, while a gorgeous belt will show off your little waist.

Shoes

As every woman knows, if you want to elongate your silhouette, a pair of must-have heels will sort you out. But, in our opinion, if you can’t walk in them there really is no point. Nobody can pull off a great look, not even a perfect pair, when they’re wearing clothes that make them feel uncomfortable!

Pictured dresses (left to right): Cowl back floral dress, China print shift dress and bi-stretch shift dress, all from M&Co. Availability checked 8 May 2014.