Body shape
Apple body shape
Also called round or oval
The middle is the widest, or nearly widest, part of the body.
How to recognise it
- Your waist is close to your hip measurement (90% or more for women, 95% or more for men).
- Your waist is also close to, or larger than, your bust or chest.
- Weight tends to go on around the stomach first, while legs and arms stay slimmer.
The rule our calculator uses: Waist at least 90% of hips and of bust (women), or at least 95% of hips and of chest (men). See all rules.
For women
Cuts that tend to flatter
- V-necks and open collarsA vertical line through the torso makes it look longer and leads the eye up and down.
- Empire-line tops and dressesThe seam sits just under the bust, and the fabric falls freely over the middle.
- Straight-leg trousers with a mid riseA clean straight line from hip to hem balances a fuller middle.
Usually less flattering
- Wide belts at the waistThey cut across the fullest part and draw attention to it.
- Clingy, thin knitsThey show every contour around the middle instead of skimming it.
- Short, boxy jackets that end at the waistThe hem makes a horizontal line exactly where you are widest.
For men
Cuts that tend to flatter
- Straight-cut shirts ending at mid-hipThe hem falls past the middle and keeps a clean line.
- Single-breasted jackets worn openThe open front makes a long vertical line through the torso.
- Straight or relaxed trousers with a mid riseRoom at the seat and thigh balances a fuller middle.
Usually less flattering
- Slim, clingy T-shirtsThey pull across the stomach and show every contour.
- Low-rise trousersThe waistband sits under the stomach and makes the middle look bigger.
- Horizontal stripes across the middleThey widen exactly the area you want to look narrower.
These are general style guidelines, not rules. Wear what you feel good in. No shop, no sizes: just the cuts.