The Caribbean Woman: Here’s How to Dress Your Pear-shaped Figure

by Lou-Ann Jordan Mar 4, 2024

Findyello article on the caribbean woman body shapes with image of pear and measuring tape for pear-shaped figures

The Caribbean woman cannot be confined to any single shape.

However, the two most popular might be considered the hourglass, which we looked at in the previous instalment and the pear-shaped. While many favour the former for its proportionality, several international figures, namely Kim Kardashian, made the pear-shaped figure more appealing.

Although a search for “the most popular shape” will show many still crave the hourglass or Coca-Cola bottle figure, a shift is occurring. Since 2019, the pear-shaped figure has risen in popularity. Women globally, and certainly those of us in the region have learned to appreciate our narrow waist and wide hips. Of course, it also helps when we can dress to enhance those attributes.

So, are you pear-shaped? If you’re uncertain, have no fear. We have an image consultant, Nicole Thomas of Image by Anastasia Nicole (IBAN), to assist you. If, perhaps, it isn’t, check out our previous article on the hourglass body type or look out for subsequent issues as we will explore the various body types.

Here are Nicole’s thoughts on identifying your pear-shaped figure and ideas on how to dress:

How is body shape determined?

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

Note the measurements of your shoulders, bust, waist and hips, paying attention to which area is the largest size.

The defining features of this shape are narrow shoulders (typically, they are thinner than the waist), a small bust – when compared to the hips – a small waist, and full thighs and hips.

Let’s see, are you pear-shaped?

Findyello article on the caribbean woman body shapes with diagram of pear-shaped figure — Diagram of pear-shaped figure

Here’s how to outfit a pear-shaped silhouette

When dressing the pear-shaped body, focus your attention above the waist as it brings balance to the entire body—use colour and accessories to accomplish this.

Shoulder pads, which have made their way back into fashion, are an ideal way to strengthen the shoulder line. Pushup and padded bras are highly recommended for people with a pear-shaped figure—woohoo!

In terms of tops, wear ruffles, scooped-neck, or boat-neck styles as all of these make your shoulders appear broader. As for bottom pieces, wide-legged pants are a great choice. However, if you wear skinny jeans, pair them with a loose-fitting top to give the illusion of having an hourglass figure. Alternatively, if donning a skirt, go for an A-line.

As far as dresses go, select patterned, empire-waisted, or A-lined. Wrap dresses and skirts are also excellent as they’ll help highlight a tiny waist. Also, choose dresses with embellishments on the shoulders or upper body.

We’re making it easy for you to access the perfect outfits for your shape. We’re not only sharing styles, but by clicking the links, you can engage in an exciting virtual shopping trip with Nicole.