How to flatter a Rectangle Body

A RECTANGLE BODY SHAPE has Straight Hips and a Straight Body Line. 

Your shoulders and hips will be roughly the same measurement with little waist definition and, whether you are a size 8 or size 28 you still have a STRAIGHT BODY.

It's SHAPE not SIZE that dictates your BODY TYPE because it's your body frame or bone structure that counts.

Now that you've identified your body type it's easy to choose the logical and most complementary shapes to flatter your figure.  

It's Shape not Size that dictates your Body Type

Would you put a round tablecloth on a square table? Of course not because the shapes don't fit and a round tablecloth would look awkward! 

A square table needs a square tablecloth and your body needs to be dressed in exactly the same way to flatter your symmetry and echo the fact that you are instinctly drawn towards straight lines and structured shapes.  

A rectangular shaped body has straight hips, strong shoulders and few curves. Although curves can be added with softer fabrics, ruffles and flounces, it will rarely feel right for you.  

You will never make an hourglass out of a rectangle but with clever shaping you can certainly 'suggest' a curvier shape!  

Most of us with rectangular body shapes are likely to gain weight around the tummy / midriff area in our middle years. But, fortunately, any extra weight can usually be carried without being noticed too much.

You will have a moderate to good bust with little waist definition and a flat bottom. Slim thighs and great legs are your big bonus.

Rectangle body - follow your line!

There is no way you can change your basic bone structure but you can learn how to choose clothes that flatter your silhouette and dress to your advantage.

Your rectangle body shape does not lend itself easily to curves and frills, and you very probably don't 'do' girly! You need a key to dressing and my advice is to follow and embrace your straight lines!

Your basic bone structure of firm shoulders and straight hips and thighs are roughly in line and, quite often, boasts an athletic figure.

Your hipbone is high, almost at your waist which means you have little waist definition.

Feature your firm shoulders, create waist definition and delight in retaining slender hips and legs. 

If you gain weight it's mostly carried around your waist and midriff area and can easily be disguised! You will retain more slender hips and legs. 

Above left we have actress Cate Blanchett who is a tall rectangle with immense poise. She keeps it simple in monotone and allows the cut to do the talking. A firm shoulder line and clever shaping suggests a waistline.

Jackets are a great addition to your wardrobe in sturdy, structured fabrics like wool or tweed. I show perfect examples from Kate Hudson and the late Princess Diana. Whether it's a sharply cut blazer or a little softer around the waistline, the shoulders are firmly accentuated. Lines of buttons follow the straight lines with a pencil skirt or straight leg pants. 

Nicole Kidman has an equally straight up and down slender figure with strong shoulders. She wears a belt to highlight the waistline.  

Focus on the shoulders How Camilla does it ...

Most dresses look better on a hanger which is why models are usually tall and thin with very strong shoulders. 

It must be very stressful to have every outfit reported - particularly when something doesn't quite cut it! But Queen Camilla shows us how to dress a rectangle with a slightly fuller figure.  

The evening gown on the left was not a great success. In a soft and clingy fabric with a lack of structure, it shows that a soft jersey fabric may be perfect for a curvy body but not a straight figure. 

Once the Queen has a firmer fabric and a good shoulder, the fabric is allowed to skin over the bust and clever shaping suggests a waist. An overall slimmer and more flattering silhouette.

I love the two coats on the right which create a visual illusion of a slimmer figure - if a style works then repeat it in a different color. 

How to enhance your rectangle body shape ...

• well structured clothes

• separates to create interest; color top and bottom will break up a rectangle

• a well fitted bra so that your bust and waist are clearly defined

• create curves; emphasize the waist or shape in to suggest a high waist that skims over the midriff
  

• show off good shoulders with wide necklines or top detail, wear shoulder pads if necessary
  

• tops that finish at hip level show off slender hips/thighs
  

• a hip length jacket and jeans will show off your slim hips and thighs

• choose jeans with a lower rise to fit hips and not fight with midriff

• soften the silhouette with wide leg or boot cut pants, a softly pleated skirt

• choose good foundation wear if you want garments to cling to your midriff
  

• a narrow belt can create a waist or suggest a waist worn under a jacket 
  

• a high fastening wrap dress will introduce a waist to your rectangle body shape