How to Choose Trousers for Your Body Type: 5 Silhouettes
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How to Choose Trousers for Your Body Type: 5 Silhouettes

Inverted triangle, hourglass, triangle, rectangle, oval — the right trouser cut for every body shape.

How to Choose the Right Trousers

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Inverted Triangle

This body type is defined by shoulders broader than the hips and a less defined waist. Skinny trousers are best avoided here. To balance the upper and lower body, try relaxed-fit trousers. Wide-leg trousers with patch pockets, mom-fit styles, or snap-button details are an ideal choice. Pair them with simple, understated tops.

Inverted triangle outfit: narrow pants – unsuccessful, wide checkered suit – successful choice by Natali Bolgar

Hourglass

With this body type, the upper and lower body are symmetrical. Opt for high-waisted or mid-rise trousers — straight, flared, or cropped. Choose a fitted or loose top to complete the look, whichever you prefer. Tucking it in is a good way to highlight a well-defined waist.

Hourglass outfit: emerald suit and black wide-leg pants with high waist – example by Natali Bolgar

Triangle

Women with a clearly defined waist, narrow shoulders, and fuller hips. Avoid trousers with large pockets, snap details, or decorative elements. Skinny trousers and low-rise styles will only draw more attention to wider hips. High-waisted flares or straight-leg trousers with a crease are a better choice.

Triangle outfit: narrow jeans – unsuccessful, wide black pants with high rise – successful per Natali Bolgar advice

Rectangle

This body type is recognizable by bust and hips of similar width and a less defined waist. Straight-cut trousers are best avoided. Low- or mid-rise trousers are an excellent choice. Try adding a bit of volume and drawing attention to the hips with patch-pocket trousers, culottes, palazzo pants, or mom-fit (banana) trousers.

Rectangle outfit: narrow straight pants – unsuccessful, black palazzo pants with volume – successful choice by Natali Bolgar

Oval

This body type has narrow hips with volume around the midsection and back. Very tapered, high-waisted trousers aren't the most flattering option. Mid-rise trousers with wide legs work better. Trousers with side fastenings or a printed pattern help visually smooth out extra volume.

Oval outfit: narrow jeans – unsuccessful, orange suit with wide legs – successful choice by Natali Bolgar