Banana or Rectangle Body Shape

Banana / Rectangle

Generally regarded as an “athletic” or “boyish” body type because of the lack of feminine curves, a banana-shaped or rectangle body is characterised as having shoulders, waist, and hips that are almost equally the same width. The waist is not defined and the bust is small or average, and the bottom usually has a tendency to be flat.

Many models have this body shape and a lot of types of clothes fit you well. However, for some rectangle-shaped women who want to create more curves and a more feminine silhouette, the way to do this is by defining the waist and creating curves on the top and bottom part of the body.

LOOK FOR:

• A well-fitting padded bra
• Colour blocking on clothes
• Jackets, tops and dresses that emphasise the waist
• Belted tops, dresses and jackets to create the illusion of a defined waist
• Tops that play up the neck and shoulders with details like ruching, pockets, pleats, embroidery, ruffles, etc
• A-line skirts and dresses
• Pencil skirts and skinny jeans
• Halter necklines
• Peplum anything

AVOID:

• A single colour outfit from top to bottom
• Plain, straight dresses
• Boxy, baggy styles
• Body-hugging styles, clingy fabric
• Plunging necklines, V neck, strapless tops, and dresses

STYLES THAT LOOK GOOD ON YOU:

Dresses - A-line dresses, empire-style cuts, and fit and flare dresses are recommended for rectangle shapes as these create a more feminine silhouette. Feel free to experiment with different lengths although knee-length tend to flatter most as this shows off your legs. Dresses with ruching around the waist, asymmetrical hemlines, and belted or banded dresses draw in the waist to create curves. Halter necklines reveal your back and make your bust look fuller while one-shoulder and off-shoulder styles are perfect for creating the illusion of wider shoulders.

Tops - Peplum tops are the best way to create a shaped waistline for rectangular bodies. Scoop or boat-necked tops, cowl, square and high necks are all great neckline choices for banana shapes. Halter and off shoulder styles are very flattering as well. Opt for tops that end at the mid-section of the hips, and those with an asymmetrical hem to create the illusion of a defined waist. Most sleeve lengths suit rectangle -shaped women, although three-quarter length sleeves work best for rectangle shapes, especially frill, bell or kimono style sleeves. Choose tops with embellishments like ruffles, frills, beading, and gathers around the chest to add texture, volume, and femininity to your figure.  

Trousers - Banana-shaped women can pretty much wear any style of pants.  Low to mid-rise pants work best in any style -- straight, skinny, cropped, bootcut or flared.  Choose ones with details on the hips and thighs such as pockets, pleats or turn-ups.

Jeans - Slim, straight, bootleg, slightly flared, and wide leg all work for rectangle shaped bodies These will add more shape and definition to your body. But if you're going for wider leg pants, choose ones that stay tight across your thighs. When only the section below the knee has width, it gives your body curves, which make bootlegs and flares great choices.

Skirts -  Skirts are an easy way to instantly create a more feminine look.  A line skirts and pencil skirts that taper in at the side will also add some curves and look good on banana-shaped bodies.  Tight mini skirts, skater skirts, crossover, and bias-cut skirts are good options too.

Outerwear - Waterfall-style cardigans and jackets soften your angular body and add softness and curves, while coats and jackets with wide lapels, detailing on the shoulders add volume to your upper body.  Single-breasted, figure-hugging jackets are your go-to pieces for creating a defined waist and adding shape. Choose ones that fit well at the shoulder, have a nipped-in waist and slightly flared at the bottom.  Open-style cardis or simply leaving your jacket or blazer open will create a flattering vertical colour block against your top.