When it comes to women, there are six «standard body types» that correspond to the proportions of their figures. The «A» body type is the most common (hips wider than the shoulders). The 8 and X body types are generally considered the most balanced. What about you? What is your typical body shape? Among the various outlet shopping centers in Paris, find all kinds of clothing and brands at the best prices, all year round—including items that suit your body type.
This is the most common female body type, characterized by hips that are wider than the shoulders. How should you dress? Draw attention upward to take the focus off the lower body. The shoulders are narrower than the hips. Curves are most prominent on the hips and thighs. The overall size is usually standard, and the hips are wide.
All of this will help rebalance the silhouette by drawing attention to the upper body, which will appear more prominent due to optical effects. Bold prints: opt for form-fitting tops that hug the body; choose printed and/or bright colors. Structured shoulders: Structure the shoulders with a boxy jacket that balances them against the width of the hips. Wide hips: At the bottom, conceal the hips under trapeze, puff, or skater dresses or skirts. The fabric, though form-fitting, remains extremely fluid. On this—delicate—part of the body, stretch fabrics are to be avoided. Flared calves: essential are bootcut pants (or “elephant foot” pants, with slightly less flared legs), which, through a play of contrasts, refine the hips by adding volume to the lower leg. Magical!
It’s a bit of a «feminine ideal,» with its defined proportions and slender figure. Main characteristics: Shoulders the same width as the hips (or slightly narrower), small bust, and a slim, defined waist.
How to dress? There are no limits—anything goes. Even the slimmest people will make certain parts of their bodies look fuller with bold prints.
In short, «X» can afford anything: miniskirts, bold prints, pencil skirts, etc.
Flashy fabrics: Body type X should definitely embrace bold originality to draw attention to their enviable proportions, even if they may lack a bit of curve in some areas… The key? Flashy details and fabrics to make up for any lack of volume. And alluring: Woman X usually has a small bust, so she avoids collars or turtlenecks in favor of alluring necklines—but nothing too plunging!
Loose fit: thin, even skinny; wear clothes that are too skinny. Top: mom jeans, which are trending, chinos, and straight-leg cuts.
It is the voluptuous counterpart of Woman X. Its curves are concentrated on the thighs, buttocks, and hips. Main characteristics: Hips, thighs, and voluptuous breasts; well-defined curves. The width of the shoulders is equal to that of the hips. And a particularly defined waist.
How to dress? Find slim-waisted, form-fitting clothes at outlet malls in Paris. Your most desirable curves are accentuated. All of this highlights your enviable figure. We tailor, we hang, and we don’t turn a blind eye.
Molded: Like the X Woman, the Woman 8—with its more voluptuous silhouette—flatters every look, especially when paired with the right hangers and molds. The goal is to enhance curves.
Belted: Women with an «8» figure especially like to highlight their slim waist, which accentuates their curves even more. Belts are a must (around the waist, not on the hips!); wear them with a dress, a wool sweater, etc. Avoid, on the other hand, straight cuts and loose-fitting clothes that weigh down the silhouette.
Also sporty, the "V" body type has square shoulders that are wider than her hips. Main characteristics: Square shoulders, wider than the hips (or shoulders and hips that are nearly the same width), and no defined waistline.
How should I dress?
Unlike the female pyramid, we shift our focus from the upper body downward.
We feminize the silhouette, draw attention to the legs, and accentuate the curved waist.
Girly: a big yes to anything that adds a feminine touch, because the challenge here is to soften the masculine look of square shoulders. We go all out with girly accessories. Eye-catching details: draw attention away from the top of the bust to the lower half of the body. Pants are eye-catching, with bold colors. Feel free to treat yourself to some frills, such as large pockets that, once again, will draw the eye where you need it to…
Slim fit: yes to clothes that drape and have the ability to create the illusion of a slimmer silhouette. Long live flowing fabrics and trapezoidal shapes.
If your shoulders look broad: avoid anything that draws attention to them. Skip jackets with shoulder pads, epaulets, and other details that highlight this part of the body. Why not try finding all the outfits you need at outlet malls in Paris?
Woman H has a sporty silhouette and a petite frame, with her hips and shoulders aligned on the same line. Her hips, waist, and shoulders are nearly the same width. She has a slim, slender silhouette.
How should I dress?
Illusions that play with colors and materials to create a larger-than-life effect. You'll find plenty of ideas at many outlet malls in Paris.
Those who, through the use of colors or materials, will create the illusion of a larger size.
Low waist: bottoms: skirts and low-waisted pants. High waists should be avoided, as they draw attention to subtle hips. Dresses and loose-fitting suits are also fine, provided the hem falls below the waistline.
Loose belt: This belt, worn loosely, is positioned very low on the hips, over a knit sweater or a dress. Avoid: a belt that’s tight around the waist. Contrary to what one might think, it will emphasize the lack of curves.
The body type of curvy women is characterized by voluptuous curves. Main characteristics: Curvy women with curves concentrated—in particular—on the belly. A full bust and rounded shoulders.
How should I dress?
Don't hide behind ill-fitting clothes that accentuate your curves. On the contrary, flattering pencil skirts and a hint of cleavage are her best looks.
Those that can soften the silhouette and accentuate your curves. Round doesn’t mean masculine! Strong women often hide behind loose-fitting clothes—sometimes ones that are too big. Big mistake! Nothing is more beautiful than curves that are accentuated—as long as you avoid a few pitfalls. We’ll show you how…
Solid colors: With body type O, avoid wrinkled, shiny fabrics, and extravagant patterns that weigh down the look; instead, opt for solid, matte, and rather dark colors. We haven’t found anything better than black for slimming the silhouette. The color is subtly incorporated into the accessories.
Necklace and neckline: one draws attention to the upper body, while the other highlights a full bust with a pretty neckline (not too plunging if you have a full bust). A statement necklace is unbeatable—it’s sure to catch the eye.
Fluid materials: fluid fabrics are its main allies. Especially when it comes to the «little can»—something you’ll never get in a stretchy fabric!
Straight cuts: for casual wear, mini skirts, and other flared styles. Women love straight cuts—skirts, dresses, and pants.
Heels and opaque tights: the tights are opaque and flatter the legs, while heels accentuate the curves. All items are available at a special sale at many outlet malls in Paris.
Brands we recommend: Zadig & Voltaire, American Vintage
