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How to dress for your body type in family photos

By: Lauren Widener Portraits

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How to Dress for Your Photo Session According to Your Body Type

 

When it comes to family photos, what you wear matters just as much as the location and the light. Outfits can highlight your best features, create balance, and make you feel confident in front of the camera. Since no two bodies are alike, here’s a guide to help you dress for your body type so your portraits feel both flattering and timeless.

Check out these inspiration boards I found from Pacific Globetrotters. Such a cool blog!

https://pacificglobetrotters.com/

the-best-dress-for-a-hourglass-body-shape

1. Hourglass Shape

What it means: Shoulders and hips are about the same width with a defined waist.

What to wear:

Fitted tops and wrap dresses that highlight your waist.

 Belts to accentuate curves.

 V-neck or scoop necklines to elongate.

Avoid: Boxy, shapeless clothing that hides your waist.

the-best-dress-for-a-pear-body-shape

2. Pear Shape 

What it means: Hips are wider than shoulders.

What to wear:

Structured tops, boatnecks, or statement sleeves to balance proportions.

A-line skirts or dresses that flow away from the hips. 

Long necklaces or scarves to draw the eye upward.

Avoid: Bottoms that cling too tightly to the hips without balance on top.

the-best-dress-for-an-apple-shape

3. Apple Shape

What it means: Carries weight around the midsection, slimmer legs/arms.

What to wear: 

Empire waist dresses and tops that flow under the bust. 

Layers like cardigans or structured jackets. 

Monochromatic outfits to streamline the silhouette.

Avoid: Tight belts or fabrics that cling to the stomach.

the-best-dress-for-a-rectangle-body-shape

4. Rectangle Shape 

What it means: Shoulders, waist, and hips are fairly aligned.

What to wear: 

Ruffled, pleated, or layered tops to add dimension.

Dresses with cinched waists or belts to create curves. 

Peplum tops and fit-and-flare dresses.

Avoid: Straight-cut dresses with no definition.

the-best-dress-for-an-inverted-triangle-body-shape

5. Inverted Triangle Shape

What it means: Broader shoulders compared to hips.

What to wear: 

V-necks or wrap tops to soften the shoulders. 

Wide-leg pants or A-line skirts to balance proportions. 

Solid tops with patterned bottoms.

Avoid: Shoulder pads or boatnecks that add width on top. 

Extra Tips for Photo Sessions

 

Textures & Layers: Knits, linen, and lace add interest without overwhelming.

 

Colors: Stick to your family’s palette but choose tones that flatter your skin.

 

Fit Matters: Tailored but comfortable is always best.

 

Movement: Choose clothes you can move, hug, and sit in comfortably—sessions are active! 

The most important thing is that you feel confident and like yourself. Clothes should highlight, not distract. When you feel comfortable, it always shines through in your portraits.

 

Not sure what looks best on you? I design wardrobe boards for every family experience session, tailored to your body type, skin tone, and the look we’re going for. When you book, you don’t just get photos—you get styling that makes you feel amazing + example outfits clickable links.

Inquire about a Family Experience Session

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