Bodies change naturally with age – it’s perfectly normal for your shape to shift over time. Many women notice their waist softens or becomes less defined. But looking stylish isn’t tied to any age or body type. The key is choosing clothes that fit your current shape well. When you wear pieces that suit your body, you’ll feel more confident and comfortable. Take your measurements to find your body type, then build a wardrobe around what works best for you. Whether you prefer timeless basics or current trends, focus on fit first. A thoughtfully chosen wardrobe makes getting dressed both easier and more enjoyable.

I’ll be referring to two of my prior posts: Dressing For Your Body Type and The Five Most Flattering Dresses for YOUR Body Shapes.

The four body types we will predominantly be addressing are:

• Hourglass
• Pear (or triangle)
• Rectangular (or Athletic)
• Apple (or Round)

Understanding Body Types & Shapes

Your body shape guides your clothing choices – it’s that simple. Think of it like a map that shows you what works best for your figure. Women over 70 want clothes that fit well and feel good, not trendy items that look awkward or stiff. Once you know if you’re pear-shaped, apple-shaped, hourglass, or rectangular, shopping gets easier. The right cuts smooth out areas you’re not crazy about and play up your favorite features. Forget about squeezing into what’s “in style” – focus on what makes you look polished and confident. Ready to find your shape and learn what clothes will work hardest for you?

Apple or Round body type

You may be this body type if…

• You are generally well-proportioned
• Your shoulders are broader than your hips
• You are not necessarily as curvy through your hips
• You don’t have a well-defined waistline, carry weight in the midsection.
• Average bust size

Your Body: Women with apple body shapes carry most of their weight around their middle. Their waists tend to be shorter and less defined, while their legs stay relatively slim. The shoulders are often broader than the hips, creating a rounder silhouette. Unlike other body types, apple shapes typically have less fullness in their bottom area. The widest part of their body is usually at the waist, which measures larger than both their shoulders and hips. This natural distribution of weight creates a distinct profile that’s important to understand when choosing clothes and planning exercise routines. Want to know if you have an apple shape? Measure your waist – if it’s wider than your bust and hips, you likely fall into this category.

Top Dress Picks for You: Dresses that highlight your upper body work wonders. Look for belted styles, drop-waist cuts, swing dresses, or ones with a decorated top or empire waist. A-line, wrap, and full-skirt dresses are also smart choices, offering a flattering way to hide the midsection. If you have an apple-shaped body, your legs are one of your best features, so show them off with shorter styles!

What NOT to Wear: Anything that turns the eye to your midsection, such as:

• Horizontal lines
• Natural waistlines
• Fitted tops

Floral-Embroidered Crepe Wrapdress $225 $375 Sizes : 46 It , 50 It , 38 It , 40 It , 42 It , 44 It

Quick Outfit Tips for an Apple or Round Body Shape

• Create the illusion of a waist without drawing attention to it, stay away from bulky belts.
• V-necklines are your go-to. They elongate the torso and draw focus to the face. Wrap tops and tunics with a relaxed fit around the waist work wonders by skimming over the midsection. Avoid clingy fabrics—soft, breathable cotton or lightweight knits are perfect.
• Emphasize your bust line with a V-neck, and A-line dress, etc.
• Draw Attention Upward. Opt for V-neck tops and structured jackets to elongate your torso. A lightweight scarf or statement necklace pulls the focus upward beautifully.
• Dark on Bottom, Bright on Top. Wearing darker colors on the lower half with a pop of color or pattern on top balances your figure.
• Flattering tops include scoop necks, tops with a narrow bodice or strapless.
• Tunic and tops longer than your hip bones work well
• Keep it simple at the neckline with no elaborate necklace or fancy fabric patterns near the neck.
• Stay away from big, heavy boots, they will make your legs look smaller.
• High-waisted, straight-leg pants are a fantastic choice—they offer a smooth fit over the midsection. A-line skirts that flow away from the body can add balance without drawing attention to the waist area.
• Skinny jeans and leggings can work well, especially when paired with a longer tunic style top.
• Pants with back pockets will provide definition to your bottom and help balance out your waist.
• Denim, trouser cut, wide leg or boot cut pants or jeans work well.
• A higher heel on your shoes, whatever you feel comfortable in will balance out your shape and highlight your legs.
• Don’t bury your body in fabric, but allow your clothing to have some space
• Opt for pieces that gently flare out from the body 
• Keep your silhouettes more open and straight 
• Invest in Good Outerwear. A tailored blazer or open-front cardigan offers structure while skimming over the midsection. Look for styles with subtle tailoring around the shoulders to add structure and balance.
• Dresses: Empire-waist dresses create a flattering silhouette by drawing attention above the waist. Wrap dresses are another great option—they offer structure and emphasize the bust while skimming over the midsection.
• Use layering to your advantage 
• Balance out your lower half by adding visually to it
• Don’t be afraid to show off your legs 
• Bags: Size Matters. medium-sized bags with clean lines work best. Oversized totes can overwhelm your frame, while bags that are too small may feel disproportionate. Instead, go for structured crossbodies or shoulder bags that hit above the hip to add balance.
• Draw Attention Where You Want It. A scarf with vertical stripes or a long, draped shawl can elongate your figure, making you look taller and slimmer. This effect pulls focus away from the midsection.
• Avoid overly chunky shoes—they can feel heavy and out of proportion.
• Footwear Colors That Work. Neutral tones like beige or taupe create a seamless extension of the leg and pair well with everything.

Remember, flowy isn’t your enemy—but it’s all about finding that fine line between skim and overwhelm.

Pear (or Triangle)

Your body shape helps determine which clothes will look best on you. If you’re pear-shaped or triangular, you’ll notice wider hips and thighs with a smaller upper body. Your defined waist adds curves, while narrow shoulders create a gentle slope. The key is drawing eyes up with bright tops and statement necklaces. Rectangle shapes have shoulders and hips that measure nearly the same width, with minimal waist definition. Think of your shape like a starting point – it’s not about rules, but about highlighting what you love most. When your hips measure wider than your shoulders, choose pieces that create balance and show off your favorite features.

Characteristics of a Pear Shape:

• Fuller/curvy hips, thighs, and generous rear.
• Well-defined waist.
• Your waist is wider than your bust
• Small in the bust
• Extra weight on thighs
• You consider yourself to have fuller hips
• You have narrower shoulders in comparison to your hips

To create a more balanced appearance, try to choose dresses that enhance your upper body with added volume.

Best Dresses for You: Any dress with a:

• Strapless top
• A fitted open neck
• A V-neckline
• A-line or full skirt (these will help hide a wider hip)

Dresses with embellishments around the bust can create a more balanced look. If you choose a dress that hugs your hips, you might need to opt for a larger size and have the waist altered by a professional. Ultimately, you’ll shine in fit-and-flare dresses. These styles offer more room below the waist, adding volume to your smaller upper body and slim waist.

What NOT to Wear:

• Oversized/shapeless styles
• Full poofy skirts
• Super-short hemlines
• Curve-hugging fabrics.

Veronica Beard Goldie Dress $349 $498 Sizes : 00 , 0 , 2 , 4 , 6 , 8 , 10 , 12 , 14 , 16

Quick Outfit Tips for a Pear Body Type

• Bright colors and prints work well in tops, will broaden shoulders.
• Draw attention away from the hips and thighs, and to the torso area.
• Plunging V-neck, scoop neck, boat neck and cowl neck tops work well.
• Look for tops that add volume to the upper body. Boat necks, scoop necks, and off-shoulder styles can widen the shoulders visually and even out proportions. Details like ruffles, embellishments, or bold prints also help balance a fuller lower half.
• Fitted or structured tops give definition to narrow shoulders and draw attention to the narrow waist, think hourglass.
• Choose tops with volume or sleeves for more balance.
• Create Balance on Top. Go for tops with ruffles, statement sleeves, or embellishments to add volume. Scoop and boat necklines also work wonders.
• Tops with fuller sleeves can help balance out your proportions. Wide sleeves, like bell and kimono work well.
• Use layers in the tops, tanks, blouses and cardigans.
• Longer tops should skim over the hips, but not reach down to the thighs.
• A-line and princess cuts and waist length jackets work well with the pear shape.
• Dresses with embellished necklines, open backs, dramatic sleeves and belted styles will flatter a pear shape.
• Wear dresses and skirts at knee length
• Shorter hemlines (not mini-skirts) can help elongate the line of our legs. However, if you have an athletic pear shape then it might be best to stay away from shorter hemlines.
• Bottoms should be a darker color with no details at the hip or in the rear for a slimming and elongating effect.
• Bootcut and straight-leg pants give your silhouette balance by elongating your legs. For skirts, A-line and flared designs soften the hips and create a flattering flow. Stick to darker tones below to keep the focus upward.
• Pants that have straight legs or are flared at the bottom work well.
• Choose the Right Trousers. Straight-leg or bootcut pants in darker hues streamline the legs without emphasizing the hips.
• Shoes that elongate the leg also help balance your vertical line and are all around flattering. Shoes with a pointed toe can elongate our legs and make the hips look more proportional.
• Jewelry choices include statement, chunky and layered necklaces that hit above the bust, and large earrings work well.
• Structured shoulders can help broaden your top half and balance out your proportions
• A great fitting bra that helps further define your waist and bustline.
• Fit-and-flare dresses are made for you. They highlight the waist and glide gracefully over the hips. Off-shoulder or embellished necklines also help draw the eye upward, balancing your overall silhouette.
• Highlight Your Waist. Belts, wrap dresses, and fit-and-flare styles are excellent for accentuating your natural waistline.
• A-Line Skirts Are Your Best Friend. They flow gently over wider hips, creating a nice proportion overall.
• Avoid boxy silhouettes that hide your waist or hug only your hip area.
• A bright scarf draws the eye upward, balancing the lower half.
• Balance your proportions by adding a belt that is closer to your natural waistline
• Jackets are a great way to add some visual weight to your upper half.
• Choose jackets that end at or above the hip to avoid adding volume to the lower half. Structured shoulders, waterfall cardigans, or tailored blazers create a defined upper body.
• Opt for bags with shorter straps that sit higher on the torso, drawing attention away from the hips.
• Shoes: Heel Height and Silhouette. Ballet flats, loafers, or low-heeled pumps can elongate the legs without compromising comfort.

Hourglass Shape

The hourglass shape stands out for its balanced proportions – shoulders and hips match in width, with a smaller, defined waist between them. Your bust and hip measurements are nearly equal, creating natural curves that flow smoothly. The waist measurement is noticeably smaller, typically 8-12 inches less than your bust or hips. This creates that classic “pinched in” middle that’s easy to spot. When you measure yourself, you’ll notice your upper body length matches well with your leg length, adding to the overall harmony. Many fashion experts consider this shape ideal since clothes tend to fit well without major alterations. The key to dressing an hourglass figure is showing off that defined waistline – it’s your best feature.

Characteristics of an Hourglass Shape:

• Balanced shoulders and hips.
• Defined, narrower waist.
• Full bust and hips.

Best Dresses for You: Look for dresses that have:

• V-necklines
• Open necklines
• Cinched-in waistlines
• Form-fitting tops

Wrap dresses with belted waists are also a great option for hourglass figures!

What NOT to Wear:

• Baby doll dresses
• Shapeless styles
• Empire waist styles
• Oversized dresses

LK Bennett Susannah Long Sleeve Sweater Dress $375 Sizes : X-small , Medium , X-large , Xx-large

Quick Outfit Tips for an Hourglass or Curvy Body Shape or Type

• Snug, fitted tops that nip in slightly at the waist will prevent the bust from looking out of balance.
• V-neck, V-neck halters, sweetheart and scoop necklines work well.
• Tops that extend below the hipbone will be slimming.
• Short, shaped jackets work well as do those that stop just above the hips. Belted coats like trench coats are flattering.
• Pants that have a slight flare or have a boot cut are slimming. Skinny jeans should be regular length, not cropped.
• Avoid low rise pants, stick with mid or high rise.
• Wrap tops and dresses flatter the waist.
• Fitted tops that highlight your natural curves are key. Wrap tops or belted blouses accentuate your waist without overcomplicating the silhouette. Choose structured fabrics for a polished, tailored look.
• Wear Fitted Knits. A fitted cardigan or sweater flatters your shape without adding bulk.
• Try a pencil skirt with a blazer that is just fitted enough in the bust and hips. You may want to wear the blazer wear it open for even more waist definition.
• Wear a pencil skirt with a fitted blouse or top tucked in.
• Choose Skirts with Structure. Pencil and slightly flared skirts enhance your proportions perfectly.
• High-waisted trousers, pencil skirts, and slim-fit pants define your waist while complementing the natural curve of your hips. Avoid overly baggy styles as they can overwhelm your figure.
• Soft fabrics that drape well.
• Think “vintage” with dresses.
• Avoid stiff fabrics
• Solid colors are the most flattering, or color block with the waist being the point of the color change.
• Dark colors and vertical stripes will downplay curves.
• Heels can elongate the legs; flats may make your legs look short and thick.
• Long necklaces that hang to a ‘V’ as well as large, interesting bracelets will draw attention to the waist.
• Wear dresses that are fitted at the waist but flow gently out through the chest and hip area for a proportionate look. Choose fitted or slightly tapered dresses for easy wins.
• Wrap dresses and sheath dresses highlight your waist while subtly accentuating the bust and hips. Anything that follows your natural curves without clinging too tightly works beautifully.
• A fitted or cinched wrap dress is always flattering on this body shape.
• Accentuate the Waist. Look for wrap dresses, belted jackets, and high-waisted pants that emphasize your middle.
• Don’t wear boxy crop tops which can make you appear wider.
• Don’t wear pleats and gathering which tend to over emphasize your hips and creates a bottom-heavy look.
• Don’t wear shapeless clothing: Tent dresses, boxy shift dresses, or anything that has no shape to it. Wearing shapeless clothes will hide your curves and give you a stocky look.
• Avoid Boxy Shapes. Oversized or shapeless styles can hide your beautiful curves—opt for tailored pieces instead.
• For outerwear: Belted trench coats, shaped blazers, and jackets that cinch in at the waist are ideal for you. They show off your curves while keeping the overall look sophisticated and polished.
• Wearing a scarf loosely tied around the neck can define your collarbone and add elegance.
• Handbags: boxy or angular shapes play up your natural structure & figure.

Rectangle or Athletic Body Type

The rectangle shape is more straight-lined, with hips, waist, and shoulders almost equal in width. The goal here is to create curves and define the silhouette with strategic styling. If you have an athletic build, your hips are typically narrower than your shoulders. People with this body type often have broad shoulders and less defined waists. The main goal is to create a more balanced look between your upper and lower body, aiming for an hourglass shape.

You may be this body type if…

• You’re not particularly curvy
• Your shoulders and hip measurements
  are nearly the same
• Your waist is straight up and down
• Your weight is fairly evenly distributed throughout your body
• Straighter figure without a pronounced waist.
• Uniform bust, waist, and hip measurements.
• Slim or athletic build.

Best Dresses for You: Any dress that will balance the upper body and fill your slight hips, such as dresses with:

• Embellishment
• Ruffles
• Any other volume-increasing details.

A-lines and lower waistlines are very flattering. In general, dresses that slightly flare out are ideal for you as they help balance out broad shoulders!

For those with an athletic build and a larger bust, styles like thick straps, halter tops, and dresses with ruching and draping work well to accentuate your curves. U-necklines and V-necklines are also great choices to enhance your bust line. To create a more feminine silhouette, choose a dress with a cinched waist.

What NOT to Wear:

• Avoid wearing excessively short hemlines as they can create an unbalanced look, making your top half appear heavier.
• Athletic individuals with a larger bust should steer clear of strapless dresses or those lacking proper support, like spaghetti straps.
• Be cautious with stretchy fabrics around the torso and dresses that have embellishments or ruffles on the bust.

Self-Portrait Tinsel Boucle Tailored Midi Dress $349–513 $559–594 Sizes : Uk6 , Uk10 , Uk12

Quick Outfit Tips for a Rectangle or Athletic Body Type

• Tops like halter styles, scoop and round neckline and anything strapless works well.
• Add Dimension Up Top. Tops with ruching, puffed sleeves, or bold patterns add interest and volume.
• Statement collars and embellished necklines are flattering.
• Tops tucked in can create the illusion of a waistline.
• Accessorize with belts, heavier belts work well if you are long waisted.
• 3/4 sleeves are a good choice for this body type.
• Short jackets that end at or just below the waist are a good choice.
• Opt for tops that create the illusion of curves. Peplum styles (where peplum is flat), ruching at the sides, or anything with a cinched waist adds dimension. Experiment with patterns and layers to bring depth to a straighter silhouette.
• Create Curves with Layers. Peplum tops, belt details, and tailored jackets help define and create the illusion of curves.
• Opt for A-Line or Flared Skirts. These add gentle shape and balance to your figure.
• Peacoats, dusters, bomber jackets all work well.
• Almost any style of pants work well with this body type.
• Play with Patterns and Textures. Don’t shy away from mixing textures like knits and tweeds to add depth to your look.
• Create visual breaks and curves—think belts, layering, and strategic tailoring.
• Wide-leg or flared pants are brilliant for adding volume and shape. When it comes to skirts, opt for pleated or wrap styles—they create movement and a sense of shape around the hips.
• Skinny jeans or leggings work well with an oversized top.
• Statement earrings, layered necklaces and chunky bangle bracelets are good choices.
• Dresses with a defined waistline, like belted styles or those with an A-line skirt, create curves where needed. Add extra details like bold patterns, ruching, or structured seams for visual interest.
• Dresses in many styles work well, including shift style dresses. Add a belt to create a waistline.
• Shoes in many styles will work, including ankle straps if your legs and ankles are slim.
• Shoes: Heel Height and Silhouette. Ballet flats, loafers, or low-heeled pumps can elongate the legs without compromising comfort.
• Look for outerwear with details at the waist, like a tie belt or peplum design. Cropped jackets or those with shoulder embellishments can add dimension to your frame.
• Wearing a scarf loosely tied around the neck can define your collarbone and add elegance.
• Lighter fabrics like silk are perfect for delicate layering, while chunkier knits in bold tones provide contrast and structure. This works particularly well for adding some depth and softness.
• Handbag Shape and Style. Rounded bags soften angles and work beautifully for adding curves where needed.

Reiss Naya Short Sleeve Tailoring Midi Dress $330 Sizes : 4 Uk/0 Us , 6 Uk/2 Us , 8 Uk/4 Us , 10 Uk/6 Us , 12 Uk/8 Us , 14 Uk/10 Us , 16 Uk/12 Us , 18 Uk/14 Us

Understanding how to style your body shape doesn’t mean limiting yourself to specific types of clothing. It’s about embracing the shapes, patterns, and colors that complement your natural beauty.

Xander Metallic Long Sleeve Sheath Cocktail Dress $399 Sizes : 0 , 2 , 4 , 6 , 8 , 10 , 12 , 14

Your style after 70 is about what works for you, not what others expect. When you understand your body shape, you’ll find clothes that fit well and make you feel confident. The right fabrics and cuts keep you comfortable while looking polished.

Mac Duggal Beaded Cap Sleeve Crew Neck Satin Midi Dress $398 Sizes : 14 , 2 , 4 , 6 , 12

Women’s Pleated Satin V-Neck Midi-Dress – Plum $398 Sizes : 4 , 16 , 18 , 22 , 24

Build your closet with pieces that match your lifestyle. Choose items that are easy to wear but still express your personal flair. Start small – try one new piece that makes you feel great. Your confidence will grow with each successful outfit.

Floral Embellished Long Sleeve Midi Cocktail Dress $398 Colors : Gold Multi , Midnight Sizes : 16 , 4 , 10 , 18 , 20 , 22 , 24

Embellished Neck Long Sleeve Satin Cocktail Dress $398 Sizes : 2 , 4 , 6 , 8 , 10 , 12 , 14

Jackie 3/4-Sleeve Sheath Dress $390 Colors : Black , Cobalt , Red , Eclipse Sizes : 6 , 10 , 14 , 8 , 12 , 0 , 2 , 4

Think of your wardrobe as a collection of reliable friends. Each piece should earn its place by making you feel comfortable and stylish. Good fit matters more than following trends. Quality basics in colors you love create endless outfit options.

Lace Long Sleeve Fit & Flare Cocktail Dress $398 Sizes : 2 , 4 , 6 , 8 , 10 , 12 , 14

Fashion Tip:  Your closet might look full, but is it functional? A quick scan can reveal the missing essentials—maybe it’s the perfect pair of tailored jeans or a sleek neutral blazer that works anytime, anywhere. These classic staples pull your wardrobe together without a second thought. By identifying gaps, you’ll avoid impulse buys that never quite fit your vibe. Think of it as smart shopping with style. So, what’s missing? A crisp white shirt, leather ankle boots, or that timeless trench coat? Lock down the pieces that elevate everything else. That’s how you build a closet that feels fresh and forever chic as you are!

Hey there! I’m Danille from Beautiful Over Sixty, and I’m so glad you’re here! Got a moment? Let’s jump into some styling magic. Forget the skim and stay for the sparkle. If you’re all about classy and timeless looks, you’re in for a treat. Love what you see? We’ve got loads more where that came from. Visit our site to refresh your look with tips that keep you polished and chic. It’s a treasure trove you’ll want to explore! https://beautifuloversixty.com/