How to dress a rectangle shape
Your shoulders, waist and hips are fairly even. That gives you a sleek line and lots of freedom to play.
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If you're a rectangle shape, also called straight or athletic, your shoulders, bust, waist and hips are all fairly similar in width. Your waist isn't strongly defined. You might have a sporty build, or a long, even line.
A rectangle shape is wonderfully versatile. You can wear clean, straight cuts that look effortless, or add shape with belts, peplums and flared skirts when you want curves. You get to choose.
Not sure this is your shape? Our body shape guide walks you through it.
Ways to play
- Create a waist when you want one. Belts, wrap styles and peplums all do this nicely.
- Add volume at the top or bottom. Ruffles, puff sleeves, pleats and flared hems add movement and curve.
- Lean into clean lines. Straight pants, shift dresses and boxy jackets look sharp and modern on you.
- Play with texture and layers. Mixing knits, crisp cotton and soft satin adds interest.
Tops
Peplum tops flare out from the waist and create the look of curves.
Wrap tops and tie-front blouses pull in at the middle.
Tops with detail like ruffles, puff sleeves or a bold collar add shape up top.
Boxy and relaxed tops look great on you too. Tuck them into high-waisted bottoms for a little definition, or leave them out for a relaxed, modern feel.
Scoop necks and sweetheart necklines add a softer curve to your neckline.
Bottoms
High-waisted, wide-leg pants define your waist and add flow below.
Pleated pants add a little volume at the hips.
Skinny and straight jeans show off your legs. Pair them with a top that has some volume.
Flared and pleated skirts, from A-line to full midi, add movement and shape. Pencil skirts look sleek on you too.
Cargo pants and pocket details at the hip add a bit of width and interest.
Dresses
Fit-and-flare and wrap dresses create a waist. Belted shirt dresses do the same with a more relaxed feel.
Shift dresses and slip dresses follow your natural line, and they're some of the most effortless pieces for you to wear.
Tiered or ruffled dresses add movement and softness.
Layers
Belted coats and trench coats add instant shape.
Cropped jackets, like a denim jacket or a short tweed-style jacket, break up a straight line and show off your legs.
Boxy blazers and straight coats look polished and modern. You can carry an oversized fit very well.
Peplum or nipped-waist jackets are a pretty dressy option.
Shoes and accessories
You can wear almost any shoe. Chunky boots and loafers suit sleek, straight outfits. Strappy sandals and heels soften a look.
Belts are the most useful accessory you can own. Try a wide belt over a dress or coat, and a slim belt with high-waisted pants.
Layered necklaces and textured bags add interest without fuss.
A sample rectangle capsule
- Peplum top or tie-front blouse
- Ruffle or puff-sleeve top
- Relaxed knit sweater
- High-waisted wide-leg pants
- Straight-leg jeans
- Pleated midi skirt
- Wrap dress
- Shift dress
- Belted trench coat
- Cropped denim jacket
- Loafers and strappy sandals
- A wide belt and a slim belt
Three outfits to try
- Weekend: a relaxed knit sweater half-tucked into straight-leg jeans, a cropped denim jacket and loafers.
- Work: a tie-front blouse, high-waisted wide-leg pants and a slim belt, with a boxy blazer over the top.
- Evening: a slip dress with strappy sandals, or a wrap dress with a belted trench if the night is cool.
Curves are optional
You don't have to create curves if you don't want to. A sleek, straight outfit is just as flattering. The tips above are tools you can pick up when you'd like a different look.
Skip the searching
When our quiz launches, a rectangle result will bring together wrap dresses, peplum tops and sharp straight pants, so you can try curves or clean lines without hunting for them.