Body shape has not always been part of the fashion discourse for Caribbean women. Intuitively, we would assess bodily features that we felt stood out and either sought to enhance or camouflage them.

While this reasoning shows some latent knowledge of body shape, our clothes selection did not support our intuition. For many of us, our choices were governed by what was functional or popular. We sought to fit ourselves into them, giving little thought to whether they suited our frame.  

However, the last decade has changed how we approach our fashion choices. With access to the global narrative on fashion and its trends, we’ve grown to appreciate dressing for our body shape. We’ve learned that we can be more selective about what we wear.

Still, a significant element of dressing well is choosing attire suitable for one’s figure. Admittedly, there are limited statistics on the Caribbean woman’s body type. However, observations may reveal that the great majority are curvy with an ample derriere, suggesting they are predominantly apple or hourglass figures. Notwithstanding, some of us fall within the rectangle and inverted triangle categories.

Thus far, with the help of image consultant and Image by Anastasia Nicole founder Nicole Thomas, we’ve explored the hourglass, pear and apple-shaped figures. Now, it’s on to the next. Those with a rectangular figure get ready to learn which styles, clothing items and lengths are best suited for you. 

With Nicole, we’ll help you be your best, as it’s all about enhancing the assets you’ve already got.

The rectangle body shape

The major differentiating factor about the rectangle body shape is that the waist, hip and shoulder widths are similar. It is referred to as the banana shape or ruler shape.  For those of you with a rectangle figure, your best assets are your arms and legs.

Also, the good news is your body shape will always be in style. Finding clothes to fit will not be a problem because it will work in your favour even if the clothes are cut with curves and a trim waistline. You can wear them because such silhouettes align perfectly with what is required to fit and flatter your figure.

Here’s how to dress a rectangle silhouette

Women with rectangle bodies should wear clothing that accentuates or emphasises the waistline. As such, tops, dresses, and jackets must always look like a cinched waist. You likely have great legs and arms if you are a rectangle figure. So, break out those shorts, mini dresses, and sleeveless tops; you’ll find them flattering.

Image By Anastasia Nicole Style Option #1 For The Rectangle Figure

Links for option one

Dress: https://amzn.to/3r37Nni

Shoes: https://amzn.to/457kWKA

Purse: https://amzn.to/44Pt1DK

Watch: https://amzn.to/43S6W65

Necklace: https://amzn.to/3Ks9f9h

Sunglasses: https://amzn.to/3Y6zIyW

Image By Anastasia Nicole Style Option #2 For The Rectangle Figure

Links for option two

Dress: https://amzn.to/44R9WB9

Shoes: https://amzn.to/46Sghhf

Purse: https://amzn.to/3rT2I0P

Earrings: https://amzn.to/3QvPnWx

Necklace: https://amzn.to/3DJZdN4

Image By Anastasia Nicole Style Option #3 For The Rectangle Figure

Links for option three

Jacket: https://amzn.to/3OmOBJY

Trousers: https://amzn.to/3OmZjjE

Shoes: https://amzn.to/3O7isoq

Earrings: https://amzn.to/3K95ANy

Necklace: https://amzn.to/3O6QedB

Purse: https://amzn.to/3DrfUga

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Knowing your body type is a game-changer and will empower you to make fashionable decisions. It’s what makes the difference between looking nice and looking fabulous.

Stay tuned for our next edition of The Caribbean Woman, discussing the inverted triangle body shape.

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