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How to Dress a Pear Figure: Essential Style Tips for Women with Curvier Hips

May 22

4 min read

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Understanding your body shape is essential for picking the right clothes that showcase your natural beauty. If you have a pear figure, which features wider hips and a defined waist, you're in good company. This body type is common across many cultures and is often admired for its feminine curves. In this guide, you will learn how to dress a pear figure in ways that highlight your best features while creating balance in your silhouette.


Illustration of a female torso  with an overlay of a black triangle emphasizing the figure.
The Pear Body Shape: Your hip is more than 5 percent larger than your shoulder or bust.

Choosing the Right Dresses


When selecting dresses for a pear shape, focus on styles that enhance your figure. Look for dresses that fit snugly at the top and flare out at the bottom. This design draws attention to your waist while giving your hips room to breathe.


Empire waist dresses are ideal because they cinch just below the bust, flowing down to create a lovely silhouette. For instance, consider a simple, solid-color empire waist dress with a flowing skirt. Also, wrap dresses are a fantastic choice. They provide waist definition and are flexible in sizing—great for varying body changes due to seasonal shifts or daily fluctuation.


Eye-level view of an elegant empire waist dress on a mannequin
Elegant empire waist dress that flatters a pear shape

Selecting Tops and Necklines


The right tops can dramatically change how your overall look appears. Choose tops that feature bold colors, adventurous patterns, or eye-catching details—like ruffles or puff sleeves. These elements draw attention to your upper body, effectively shifting the focus away from your hips.


Wide necklines are beneficial as well. Styles such as boat necks, off-shoulder, square, and cowl necklines can visually broaden your shoulders. This balance is important for pear-shaped women, as it enhances proportions beautifully. For example, a bright cowl neck top paired with dark pants can create an appealing contrast.


White off-shoulder top with lace detail on a wooden hanger, surrounded by clothes on hangers in a warmly lit boutique setting.
A white off-shoulder top to highlight the upper body and create balanced proportions.

Structuring the Upper Body


Adding some structure to your upper body can create a more balanced appearance. Lightly padded shoulders and tailored jackets can enhance your shoulder line, providing visual equilibrium against wider hips. A well-fitted blazer, preferably in a solid color, can work wonders. However, avoid blazers that hit at your widest point; they can create unflattering lines. Instead, go for shorter jackets to elongate your figure.

Woman in a black blazer and floral wide-leg pants holds a small purse. The background is plain white, emphasizing the fashion statement.
Made in Italy from wool, this double-breasted cropped tuxedo jacket from Saint Laurent has a satin peaked lapel and padded shoulders and finishes just below the waistline. Available at mytheresa.com.

Longer blazers can sometimes resemble an unstructured blanket, making you appear wider. Short, tailored blazers help define your waist and maintain a more streamlined look.


Pants and Skirts for Pear Shapes


For bottoms, dark colors can help minimize the hip area. Styles like straight-leg or wide-leg pants in flowing fabrics can enhance the length of your legs while providing comfort. High-waisted options also elongate your look when they fit snugly but not tightly around the waist.


Woman in patterned cardigan and black pants holds a small green purse. The background is plain white, highlighting her outfit.
Elegant black silk wide-leg pants by Valentino, designed to gently contour the natural shape while offering exceptional comfort. The black hue adds a slimming effect, subtly minimizing the hip area. Featured on mytheresa.com.

Fabrics such as chiffon and soft cotton are fantastic choices as they drape elegantly over curves. Aim to create a cohesive look that balances your proportions. For example, pairing dark high-waisted trousers with a light, breezy top can create contrast and draw the eye upward.


Accessories and Footwear


Accessories can elevate your outfit significantly. Consider bold earrings and statement necklaces that pull attention toward your upper body. Handbags that rest at your waist work well, while shoulder bags are often preferable over clutches or crossbody bags, which may add bulk.


Woman holding a black leather handbag with "THE JITRO" text. Wears a sleeveless studded black top and hoop earrings. Modern, chic setting.
The chic shoulder bag rests effortlessly at hip level, adding a touch of elegance, while bold statement earrings draw attention and perfectly elevate the entire ensemble. From THE ATTICO, featured at mytheresa.com.

When it comes to shoes, opt for styles with a manageable heel or block sole. This combination not only adds height but also creates a sturdy base that balances out your figure. For instance, a pair of block-heel ankle boots can provide comfort without compromising style.


Hairstyles to Complement Your Figure


A well-chosen hairstyle can enhance your entire look. Soft waves, layered cuts, and elegant updos draw attention upward and soften your overall appearance. For those with long hair, styles that frame your face can highlight your features while balancing your curves.


Woman with curly hair in gray turtleneck looks at the camera. Background features a textured, light-colored wall, creating a calm mood.
Soft, voluminous curls frame the face in this effortlessly chic bob—an elegant hairstyle that combines modern edge with timeless sophistication.

Consider a simple, textured lob that hits at the shoulders. This style offers softness and complements your figure beautifully.


Final Thoughts


Dressing a pear figure doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By embracing fitted styles and selecting the right colors, you can create a harmonious look that highlights your curves. Always opt for details that draw the eye upward, and remember to balance your wider hips with structured tops and flowing bottoms.


Integrating thoughtful accessories and footwear will complete your outfit and enhance your confidence. Keep these practical tips in mind as you curate your wardrobe. The journey to finding outfits that flatter your pear shape can be fun and rewarding. Happy styling!



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