The “Caribbean Woman” is as diverse as every other facet of Caribbean society. She’s an assortment of accents, hair textures, skin tones, body types, and shapes. The general belief is that she is full-figured or buxom. However, as she ages, the needle seems to inch towards being overweight. But, of course, this is a gross misconception.

Look around you, and you’ll see the “Caribbean woman” is an hourglass, pear, apple, or some other shape. Much like other women around the globe, she comes in various shapes because shape has less to do with geography. MedicalNewsToday states it’s based on one’s diet, sex, genetics, age, and level of activity.

So, do you know your body shape? Some women repeatedly make style errors because they don’t know how to dress for their figure. Yet, with such knowledge, you can choose the right clothing that complements your physique. It’s the beginning of a new year and an excellent time to put an end to fashion faux pas.

In this series, image consultant Nicole Thomas of Image by Anastasia Nicole (IBAN) will give the style ‘intel’ to help you look and feel your best, no matter your body type. With Nicole’s tips, you can select clothing that enhances your form and boosts your confidence.

Nicole Thomas of IBAN’s observations:

Here’s a list of 5 body shapes when using the fruit and geometric body shape names:

1. Hourglass
2. Pear
3. Apple
4. Rectangle
5. Inverted Triangle

How is body shape determined?

In determining your body shape, we look at the relationship between the shoulder, waist, hip, and bust.

Note the measurements of your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips paying attention to which area(s) are smaller, larger, balanced or well-proportioned. You can also take these measurements and input them into a body shape calculator to determine your figure.

The hourglass body shape

We start with the body shape that is considered the most balanced of all the figures because the upper and lower body parts are in perfect symmetry with each other. Your shoulders and hips are about the same measurement, and your waist is clearly defined. The hourglass body shape is today’s star attraction and will be the first of our five instalments on dressing for your body type.

The Hourglass Figure—everybody raves about your awesomely defined waist and bust, along with your well-proportioned butt and hips. You are like a goddess in the body-shape universe! Like an actual hourglass, your upper and lower parts are symmetrical, and your legs are shapely.

Generally, women of all other shapes look for ways to accentuate, balance, and camouflage different parts of their body or silhouette to have the hourglass effect. If you are an hourglass, celebrate and liberate your curves!

How to dress an hourglass silhouette

Wear wrap dresses and tops with a cinched waist to compliment your body type. Belts are a great way to accentuate your tiny waist, and because your legs are shapely, you can wear skirts of different lengths.  Also, trousers with a slim fit or straight cut nicely fit an hourglass body shape. Additionally, pencil skirts and high-waisted pants and skirts are excellent for your form. 

Avoid baggy clothes that do not fit or flatter your curves.

Image by Anastasia Nicole Style Option #1 For The Hourglass Figure

Links for option one

Suit: https://amzn.to/45EuUUc

Pumps: https://amzn.to/3q9kxs5

High-heeled Sandals: https://amzn.to/3QPR2Xn

Handbag: https://amzn.to/3sed9fD

Sunglasses: https://amzn.to/3r8LcWc

Earrings: https://amzn.to/3Kj1Kl8

Necklace: https://amzn.to/3NHD3PV

Image by Anastasia Nicole Style Option #2 For The Hourglass Figure

Links for option two

Dress: https://amzn.to/3ZE9l4b

Shoes: https://amzn.to/3RH1Szk   

Purse: https://amzn.to/3KZcftY

Watch: https://amzn.to/454H6gn

Earrings: https://amzn.to/45m0tC9

Necklace: https://amzn.to/44K6yYD

Image by Anastasia Nicole Style Option #3 For The Hourglass Figure

Links for option three

Dress: https://amzn.to/3sDjGRb

Shoes: https://amzn.to/3YETwtz

Bag: https://amzn.to/43LaRBN

Watch: https://amzn.to/43MPikj

Earrings: https://amzn.to/3K95ANy

Sunglasses: https://amzn.to/3QB98w2

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Meet us back here as Nicole examines our next body shape.

Sources: Stylecraze, Inside Out Style, Who What Wear, Wantable, and FIT.