How to dress an apple body shape
Understanding your proportions and choosing clothes you love
When you hear the term apple body shape, it usually refers to someone who carries more weight around the middle. Think of that as a starting point, not a rulebook. Whether you like a structured, minimalist look or something more relaxed, the goal is just to find clothes that feel right and look like you.
Why the apple label is only the beginning
It's easy to get lost in fruit-based labels, but they don't tell the whole story. At Very YOU, we use a body type system based on bone structure, vertical line and balance rather than where you carry weight. Someone described as an apple might actually be a Soft Natural, a Classic or a Romantic. These categories help you understand how fabric sits on your shoulders, where your waist hits and how your frame handles different cuts. It's much more helpful to think about the harmony of your frame than to worry about fitting into a category that doesn't actually describe your build.
Creating balance
If you're looking for outfits that work for you, start by thinking about balance. Many people find that drawing attention to the legs or the neckline helps them feel more comfortable. If you like skirts, try one that ends just above the knee to show off your legs. A slightly flared or A-line skirt creates a nice contrast to a fitted top, which stops the outfit from feeling too straight up and down. Necklines are another tool. If you want to draw the eye up, try V-necks or scoop necks. They add vertical length and highlight the collarbone, which is often a feature people like to show off. A well-placed necklace can also pull focus where you want it.
Fabrics and fit
How a fabric behaves is often more important than the specific item you're wearing. If you choose something very stiff or boxy, it might end up just adding volume instead of following your natural lines. Look for fabrics with a bit of drape, like jersey, silk or softer cotton blends, which move with you. Don't be afraid to experiment with layering. A long-line cardigan or an open blazer creates vertical lines down your torso, adding depth and keeping the silhouette fluid. It's usually the small details in tailoring that make an outfit work, so look for pieces that don't pull or bunch in ways that make you feel self-conscious.
Trousers and jeans
Finding jeans that fit is a universal struggle, but it's common if you prefer to keep the focus away from the midsection. High-waisted styles with a bit of stretch are usually the most comfortable. They hold everything securely without digging in. If you prefer tailored trousers, look for flat-front styles without bulky pockets or embellishments at the waist, which can add unnecessary weight. Straight-leg or slightly tapered trousers are often an easy win because they maintain a clean line from your hips down to your shoes. If you like a more relaxed style, you might even enjoy a wide-leg trouser that feels airy. Just find that middle ground between a fit that's too tight and one that swamps your frame.
Putting it all together with your season
Your clothes should reflect both your body and your colour season. Just because a silhouette is suggested for your shape doesn't mean you have to wear it if the colour makes you look washed out. If your season is Deep Autumn, an emerald green dress might be your go-to regardless of whether it's the 'right' shape for your frame. Focus on the colours that make your skin look radiant first, then look for silhouettes that feel balanced. When you combine your personalised shop results with a clear understanding of your frame, getting dressed becomes less of a chore and more about expressing your style.
Frequently asked questions
Should I hide my midsection?
Not at all. There is no rule that says you must hide any part of your body. Dressing is about creating a look that makes you feel confident, not about masking your features.
Can I wear belts if I have an apple shape?
Yes. If you like belts, try placing one slightly higher, just below the bust, to define the narrowest part of your torso. It's a great way to break up a shift dress or a long tunic.
Do I have to wear heels?
No. You can wear trainers, loafers or boots with whatever outfit you choose. It's just about ensuring your hemline and footwear work together to give you a silhouette you like.
When you hear the term apple body shape, it usually refers to someone who carries more weight around the middle. Think of that as a starting point, not a rulebook. Whether you like a structured, minimalist look or something more relaxed, the goal is just to find clothes that feel right and look like you.
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BROOKE SHIRT - THE TAILORED - Black, Cotton Twill - 16
The Shirt Company
-£95.00TAILORED V-LINE SILHOUETTE — BROADENS THE SHOULDERS, NARROWS THE WAIST Flattering fit designed for real women No gaping at the bust Premium, breathable fabric Designed in London, made in limited pieces Featuring structured waist-to-shoulder panels, the Brooke blouse offers a sophisticated nod to the 80's while sculpting a flattering trapezoid silhouette that slims the waist and defines the shoulders. Crafted from medium-weight cotton twill, this crisp black blouse boasts precision shirt-making with front and back waist darts and a perfectly structured classic collar. Tuck it into high-waisted tailored trousers or denim for an effortlessly cool 80’s power dressing vibe and uber flattering silhouette. Model is wearing a size 10, height is 5'9" === Available in back only Limited quantity - small batch production Tailored fit 100% cotton twill, medium weight and structured Side panels creating a trapeze shape to slim waist and define shoulders Button front placket Standard two button cuffs Roomy across the bust Mind the gap button hidden inside the placket at bust point to prevent gaping Gathers at top of sleeve head Gentle gathers at cuffs Body length front: sizes 6-8: 66 – 66.5cm, sizes 10-12: 67 – 67.5cm, sizes 14-16: 68 –68.5cm, size 18: 69cm Body length back: sizes 6-8: 64 – 64.5cm, sizes 10-12: 65 – 65.5cm, sizes 14-16: 66 –66.5.cm, size 18: 67cm Machine wash, warm iron Model is wearing a size 10, height is 5’9"
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No sleeves needed for this awesome All Over Print Tank Top! This tank is made with 100% Premium Polyester and hand-finished to ensure your graphic is aligned, complete, and totally brilliant. Machine wash as much as you like - our tanks undergo sublimation printing that utilizes a special heat-dye application that resists fading and bleeds. Comfort & Style 100% Premium Polyester. This fabric is incredibly strong and durable as well as resistant to wrinkles, shrinking, abrasion, and mildew. Machine washable and easy to care for. Vivid & Original 360 Design High-definition sublimation printing technique covers the entire front, back... everything! Each fabric panel of the tank top is printed with the graphics before sewing to ensure the design is flawless and the construction is perfect. Quality - Hand Made in the USA Each tank is created and hand-finished in the USA. High construction quality with great attention to detail ensures it won't ever fade, crack, or peel! - On Cue Apparel Squirtle Men's Tank Top in Black - 3XL by iEDM
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No sleeves needed for this awesome All Over Print Tank Top! This tank is made with 100% Premium Polyester and hand-finished to ensure your graphic is aligned, complete, and totally brilliant. Machine wash as much as you like - our tanks undergo sublimation printing that utilizes a special heat-dye application that resists fading and bleeds. Comfort & Style 100% Premium Polyester. This fabric is incredibly strong and durable as well as resistant to wrinkles, shrinking, abrasion, and mildew. Machine washable and easy to care for. Vivid & Original 360 Design High-definition sublimation printing technique covers the entire front, back... everything! Each fabric panel of the tank top is printed with the graphics before sewing to ensure the design is flawless and the construction is perfect. Quality - Hand Made in the USA Each tank is created and hand-finished in the USA. High construction quality with great attention to detail ensures it won't ever fade, crack, or peel! - Set 4 Lyfe Metatronic Men's Tank Top in Black - 2XL by iEDM
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This hoodie is made with 100% Premium Quality Poly-Fleece Fabric and hand-finished to ensure your pullover hoodie graphic is aligned, complete, and totally brilliant. Machine wash as much as you like - our hoodies undergo sublimation printing that utilizes a special heat-dye application that resists fading and bleeds. Comfort & Style 100% Premium Quality Poly-Fleece Fabric. This fabric is incredibly strong and durable as well as resistant to wrinkles, shrinking, abrasion, and mildew. Machine washable and easy to care for. Vivid & Original 360 Design High-definition sublimation printing technique covers the entire front, back, hood, sleeves - everything! Each fabric panel of the hoodie is printed with the graphics before sewing to ensure the design is flawless and the construction is perfect. Quality - Hand Made in the USA Each hoodie is created and hand-finished in the USA. High construction quality with great attention to detail ensures it won't ever fade, crack, or peel! - BrizBazaar Dreamy Ohm Unisex Hoodie in Black - 2XL - Pullover by iEDM
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