Identifing your body shape: Men

Yesterday, we covered the women, now for the men. I know guys get left out of the mix quite often when it comes to fashion talk, and dressing for your body etc. But, it is just as important for men to have a firm understanding of this, as it is for women. Unlike their counterparts, they don’t have as many fluctuations on what is the “in” body type of the moment, so instead of mastering ways to manipulate their body shape, men can focus on dressing the body shape they have.

So, how do I determine my body shape?

The easiest way is to stand in front of a full length mirror, and observe the relationship between your shoulders, hips and waist. Tip: Be sure the mirror is standing straight, or attached to the wall. A leaning mirror may distort your true shape. This relationship will help you determine which of the five body types you fall into. Keep in mind that the five shapes outlined below are a guide, and not everyone fits definitively into one category or another. You may be a mix of two shapes, or your shape might even change based on where you gain or lose weight.

Trapezoid (aka the V body shape)

Identifiers:

• Broad chest and shoulders
• Upper torso is larger than lower torso
• Waist and hips are medium-narrow (forming the flat bottom of the trapezoid)

Inverted Triangle (aka Super V body shape)

Identifiers:

• Proportionately broad shoulders and chest
• Arms and shoulders are bulky and/or muscular
• Narrow hips and waist
• Body builders typically take on this physique – as an extreme example.

Triangle (inverted V shape or pear)

Identifiers:

• Narrow chest and shoulders in relation to lower body
• Bottom heavy – wider hips and waist
• You may or may not have love handles.

Rectangle (or Brick – Doesn’t that sound more masculine?)

Identifiers:

• Equally proportionate chest, hips and waist.
• Straight or boxy torso

Oval (I wouldn’t dare call a male an apple! softball maybe?)

Identifiers:

• An overall round appearance
• A large stomach
• Your waist may or may not be wider than chest and hips

 

Be sure to come back for tips and tricks on how to dress your body type.

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