Everything You Need to Know About Dressing for a Pear Body Shape

Figuring out what looks good on you is a long and personal journey. But it always helps to be in the know about your body type—which women share your shape and what styles are undeniably flattering. For anyone who relates to a pear body type, consider this your go-to guide. We're touching all the bases, from the exact definition of a pear shape to the celebrities who share your stunning curves to exactly how to dress for a pear-shaped body.

Not sure if you'd consider yourself pear-shaped? We recommend measuring, and if your hips are more than 5% bigger than your shoulders or bust, it's safe to say your body fits the definition. Once you've done the math, we're calling out the clothes that are guaranteed to flatter your figure, along with the items you may want to skip. Armed with this handy guide, you can celebrate and show off your curves. So if you've been curious to learn a little more about the best ways to dress—and shop—for your body type, we've got your back.

Read on for all you need to know about pear body types and to shop our picks to help you show off your gorgeous style.

Celebrities With a Pear Body Type

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Kim Kardashian West
(Image credit: Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Pear body types like Kim Kardashian West have a narrow waist and hips wider than their shoulders.

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Rihanna
(Image credit: Alo Ceballos/GC Images)

Rihanna opted for a look that accentuates her waist and balances out her curvy bottom half with more volume on top.

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Beyoncé
(Image credit: Fameflynet)

Beyoncé chose a dress that draws attention to her shoulders to balance out the fact that they're narrower than her hips.

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Jennifer Lopez
(Image credit: Raymond Hall/GC Images)

An A-line dress helps accentuate your narrow waist and slim shoulders.

Designers for Pear Body Types

Consider looking to designers who tend toward sleek and sophisticated silhouettes. Dolce Gabbana, Prada, Carolina Herrera, and Diane von Furstenberg are all examples of those that embrace curves.

What to Wear

Wear: A-Line Dress

Avoid: Drop-Waist Dress

Wear: a Belt Around the Waist

Avoid: Jackets or Toppers That Hit at the Hip

Wear: Flared Pants

Avoid: Low-Waisted Pants

Wear: Printed Top

Avoid: Embellished Bottoms

Wear: Off-the-Shoulder Styles

Avoid: Tops That Are Baggy

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Aemilia Madden
Contributor