Enhance your figure: the guide for every body type

Discover how to identify your body type (A, V, H, X, O, 8) and enhance your assets with expert advice. An Oakwood guide for a confident, inclusive, and 100% you style.

Every body is unique. Every silhouette tells a story. At Oakwood, we believe that fashion is not a norm, but a way to celebrate who you are. Understanding your body type means revealing your assets, choosing clothes that give you confidence, comfort and elegance, and finally feeling that your style truly belongs to you.

1. Why knowing your body type is essential?

Before choosing an outfit, take a moment to observe your body. Body type is not a cage, it's a map to explore your assets.

With this guide, Oakwood gives you the keys to highlight what makes you unique.

There are 6 different body types:

• A-shape (pear): your hips are wider than your shoulders. You have a narrower upper body and legs that deserve to be highlighted.
• V-shape (inverted triangle): your shoulders dominate the silhouette. The goal is to rebalance your proportions by emphasizing the bottom.
• H-shape (rectangle): your shoulders, waist, and hips are aligned. Here, the game is to create curves and accentuate the waist.
• X-shape (hourglass): your shoulders and hips are balanced with a defined waist. The key is to highlight your natural waist.
• O-shape (round): generous bust and soft waist. The aim is to lengthen the silhouette while enhancing your curves.
• 8-shape (figure eight): Shoulders and hips are in the same alignment. Generally, the bust is generous and the buttocks are rounded, making it a balanced and harmonious silhouette.

2. How to enhance your figure? clothing choices

Once your body type is identified, certain clothes become your natural allies. Here are some concrete ideas:

Ø  A-shape (pear)

Tops: Opt for blouses with detailed shoulders, ruffled sleeves, or details on the upper body to draw the eye towards the face. Bottoms: Prefer A-line skirts, straight or slightly flared pants to balance the hips. Oakwood Tips: a slightly fitted blazer or a short jacket instantly rebalances the silhouette.

Ø  V-shape (inverted triangle)

Tops: Choose simple cuts, flowing fabrics, and neutral colors. Avoid shoulder pads and volume on the upper body. Bottoms: Favor wide-leg pants, pleated skirts, and textures that add movement and softness. Oakwood Tips: Slightly colorful shoes or details on the bottom draw the eye downwards.

Ø  H-shape (rectangle)

Tops: Opt for fitted dresses, thin belts, tops with gathers or ruffles to create the illusion of curves. Bottoms : Focus on straight and fluid pants; avoid overly slim cuts. Prefer flared dresses and rather straight skirts. Oakwood Tips: Surprise yourself by playing with layering (jacket + belt) to emphasize the waist and add dimension. Structure your silhouette with patterns.

Ø  X-shape (hourglass)

Tops : Choose wrap dresses, fitted tops, V-necks, wrap tops Bottoms : Opt for wide and fluid trousers, and slim cuts will enhance your legs. All skirts – draped, pleated, fitted – have no restrictions. Oakwood tips :Your silhouette is harmonious and easy to dress. So don't hesitate, dare to try!

Ø  O-shaped silhouette (round)

Tops : Opt for fluid cuts and refined necklines. Bottoms : Favor straight or bootcut styles, and high waists that structure and lengthen the body. Oakwood tips :Avoid overly loose clothing that adds bulk to your silhouette. Choose a straight jacket, preferably not too long.

Ø  8-shaped silhouette (hourglass)

Tops : Go for cuts that hug your curves while emphasizing your defined waist, wrap tops, and V-necklines. Bottoms : High-waisted pants that accentuate your waist. A-line skirts with volume. Always opt for a high waist. Oakwood tips :Don't hesitate to enhance your outfit with a belt.

3. Style as a self-expression

Elegance is not measured in inches or sizes. It lies in the confidence you exude. Understanding your body shape transforms your wardrobe into a tool of power and self-affirmation: each chosen piece becomes a way to feel free, self-assured, and radiant.

At Oakwood, we believe in inclusive and body-positive fashion. Every silhouette deserves to be celebrated. Understanding your body is not a constraint: it's a superpower to choose, assert, and enhance your style.

Imagine opening your closet and finding pieces that instantly flatter you, make you want to smile in front of the mirror, and speak for you before you even utter a word.

That's the Oakwood effect.