When the summer sun starts to beat down, it’s not just about finding clothes to keep you cool. It’s also about choosing the right outfits that flatter your body shape while keeping you comfortable during the hottest months. For those with an apple shape, this can be a challenge. But fear not! This blog post is dedicated to helping you find the perfect summer clothes for apple shape bodies.
We’ll explore various styles and options, focusing on cuts and fabrics that accentuate your best features, balancing proportions and ensuring your comfort during summer. Whether lounging by the beach or hitting the city streets, we’ve got you covered. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the world of summer fashion for apple-shaped figures.
Summer Clothes For Apple Shape – About Body Shape Types
Defining the Apple Body Shape
The apple body shape boasts an average to large bust size, exhibiting a broader, round shoulder line and a relatively flat bottom. The ribcage and back are generally wider, contributing to a noticeable fullness around the midriff.
The waistline is often slightly to significantly undefined, complemented by narrow hips. Slim limbs and attractive legs are a hallmark, and weight gains predominantly manifest in the central torso or abdominal region.
Identifying Secondary Body Shape Tendencies
Categorising one’s body into a single basic shape may prove challenging. Therefore, consider the possibility that you also lean towards a secondary body shape: If your hips are wider than your shoulders, your secondary body shape leans more toward the pear shape.
On the other hand, slightly broader shoulders than hips indicate an inclination towards an inverted triangle shape. If weight loss occurs mainly around your abdomen, resulting in a more defined waist, you lean towards an hourglass shape.
Lastly, if your bust and hips align in width, you lean towards a rectangle shape.
Some Tips About summer clothes for apple shape
The apple body type often seems top-heavy due to a more ample chest and upper body with slim to minimal definition at the waist. Balancing this figure involves choosing clothing that introduces curves and volume to your lower body and visually drawing in the waist to downplay the midriff and create an illusion of a more defined waist.
Highlight your strengths
Draw attention away from your midriff by accentuating your attractive features, typically the bust and legs. Maintain a straight to slightly tailored clothing line with soft fabric to avoid adding excess volume around the bust, waist, and stomach.
Keep the details above the bustline and below the hipline, ensuring simplicity in between. Accentuating the hemline draws attention to the legs. Maintain a fitted silhouette beneath the bust, under your arms, and along your waistline.
Opt for structured pieces that camouflage extra weight. Introduce vibrant colours on your lower body and avoid excessive fabric around the midriff.
Accentuate the waist
Opt for clothing that creates an illusion of a narrower midsection to achieve a more proportionate figure. Invest in a quality push-up bra to elevate your chest. Consider waist splits and darker colours around your waist area, such as a dark belt.
Choose clothing that lightly skims over the midriff but tucks in just beneath the bust – this lifts the chest and makes the waist appear trimmer.
Keep your waist devoid of details that broaden and accentuate, such as light colours and horizontal detail. Avoid detailing around the bust, midriff, and hips and keep the detailing focused on the top and lower third of your body.
Apparel Advice For Choosing Summer Clothes For Apple Shape
Here are a few general suggestions that might help many apple-shaped women.
Confirm Your Apple Shape Body
Start by verifying that you indeed have an apple-shaped body.
With age and due to various reasons, including menopause, many women tend to gain some weight around their abdominal area.
However, you can have a slightly larger tummy while still having a pear or an hourglass body shape.
Distract From Your Midsection
When dressing for any body shape, the goal is to achieve balance, meaning you will likely want to distract from the broadest part of your belly.
This can be achieved in two ways. You can either glide over your tummy entirely.
Alternatively, you can redefine your waist. For instance, you must not fasten your belt at your broadest point. You could belt slightly higher where your frame is narrower.
Accentuate Your Bust
Well, accentuating your bust is not mandatory. But the main point here is to divert attention from your tummy.
You might want to draw the eye upwards if you’re comfortable with your bust or décolletage. A v-neckline will be incredibly flattering for you. If you’re not comfortable with an open neckline, a vibrant, statement necklace could be an alternative.
Focus On Your Legs
You could redirect the attention downwards if you prefer your legs – and many apple-shaped women possess lovely legs.
This doesn’t necessarily imply wearing a mini-skirt, but you may consider going above the knee with your skirt length.
Alternatively, you can wear a longer plain top with patterned trousers or jeans.
The knee-length dress featuring flattering ruching could be ideal for an occasion like a wedding.
Select Suitable Fabrics
Avoid selecting fabrics that cling and will only highlight any bumps and bulges.
Instead, go for textured fabrics or designs featuring draping and ruching. The Karen Kane faux wrap dress (below) is a timeless staple that tends to be available in black, navy and red.
Summer Clothes For Apple Shape – Guidelines For Blouses And Shirts
Choosing the Right Neckline
For those with an apple-shaped physique, the ideal necklines vertically divide the chest, drawing attention away from a rounder midsection. Low and wide necklines, such as a deep V-neck, accomplish this task beautifully.
Embellishments or unique details near the neckline can further divert attention upwards. On the contrary, it’s best to avoid high and narrow necklines, as they do not flatter this body shape.
Sleeves to Suit Your Shape
Sleeves can be pivotal in diverting attention away from a fuller midriff. Opt for sleeves with intricate details like slits, gathers, or draping that emphasise your arms and upper body.
Loose, flared sleeves, shoulder-enhancing cap sleeves or shoulder pads can also provide a flattering silhouette. Steer clear of tight, fitted sleeves, which do little to enhance your features.
Optimising Shirts, T-Shirts, And Other Tops
For apple-shaped individuals, the aim is to guide the observer’s eye towards the shoulders and bust while gently skimming past the tummy area. Tops with decorative elements around the neck or shoulder, or those that wrap at the waist and flare at the hips, can cleverly conceal a larger tummy.
Diagonal prints, textures, or bold patterns — rather than solid colours — can also help camouflage excess weight. Ensure your top extends below the hipline and is not tucked in.
Avoid crop tops, tight shirts, and any midriff-focused details that might undesirably highlight the tummy area.
Knitted Attire
Thick fabrics present in knitwear can undesirably accentuate an apple-shaped figure’s curves. Open cardigans in draped fits are the ideal choice for individuals with this body type rather than the traditional jumpers.
Such cardigans should extend beyond the hipline to provide a lengthened appearance and skilfully cover the torso and hips. The key is to steer clear from fittings that cling onto your wider midriff or have specific details and embellishments, particularly horizontal stripes that may add to your perceived weight.
Outerwear – Jackets
Jackets provide an effective solution to conceal a broader midsection. The preferred style includes those with structured lines and fabrics, wrap style, and tailored fits.
A proper jacket should fit on the shoulders and extend to the hipbone to move past the midsection and provide a balanced look to your frame. Jackets need to be single-breasted, with buttons positioned under the bust line.
A structured jacket layered over your top diverts attention from the midsection while creating curves at the right places like shoulders, bust, and hips.
While wearing your jacket open can obscure the silhouette, resulting in a slimming effect. However, avoid embellished, belted, and double-breasted jackets unless the belt is positioned just under your bust (empire style).
Overcoats
Similar to jackets, coats can be an excellent choice to cover a broader midsection stylishly. Opt for structured coats longer than hip-length for an elongating effect and to balance your frame.
The positioning of buttons should be below the bust to create a waist-trimming illusion. Single-breasted styles are more suited to avoid any accentuation of the midsection.
Layering a structured coat over your top can draw attention away from the wider midriff, and when worn open, it can provide a slimming effect and lengthen your figure.
Avoid waist-belted coats, double-breasted styles, and excessive detailing that could add visual clutter to your figure.
Summer Clothes For Apple Shape – Guidelines For Lower Garments
Trousers
As an apple-shaped figure, your choice of trousers should aim to downplay your lower body while drawing attention to your slimmer legs. Choosing trousers with a wider leg cut, such as palazzo or cargo trousers with notable back or side pockets, can help add curves to your lower half.
Look for trousers with flat fronts and avoid ones that cling. Low-to-mid-rise trousers with a generous waistband are recommended, and trousers that fasten on the side can prevent additional tummy bulk.
Steer away from tapered trousers and high-waisted styles, as they may highlight your midsection or make your upper body seem larger than it is. Avoid trousers with pleats or front ruching.
[amazon bestseller=”trousers” items=”5″ ]Jeans
Choosing the right jeans can help you subtly mask your midsection without adding extra bulk. Opt for simple, bootcut, wide-leg, or flared denim styles to balance your slim legs with your wider torso.
Clean lines and darker colours are beneficial. Your jeans should have a flat front, with a low or mid-rise and a wide waistband that lays flat on your stomach, holding your midriff in place without creating unnecessary bulk.
[amazon bestseller=”wide leg jean” items=”5″ ]Avoid skinny jeans, high-rise styles, and attention-grabbing colours or details, as these style choices can accentuate your slim legs, highlight your wider tummy, or draw unwanted focus to your midsection.
Skirts
When choosing skirts for an apple-shaped body, the goal is to downplay the wider mid-section. Skirts that sit just above the knee, at the knee, or the calf are ideal. Look for full, tiered, flared, or bubble skirts. Straight skirts with a playful flared bottom are also a good choice.
Opt for fuller, flowing skirts that gently skim away from your body to balance your hips. Flip, A-line, panelled or box pleated skirts that start below the tummy, side-fastening, and flat-fronted styles look great.
[amazon bestseller=”dress” items=”5″ ]Bias cut, A-line, and knee-length pencil skirts are also well-suited for you. Avoid tiered or ruffled skirt styles that add bulk to the tummy and short skirts that highlight your midsection, making you appear boxy.
Dress Styles
Choosing the perfect dress for an apple body shape centres on skilfully navigating the midriff area. A-line, empire-line, and bias-cut designs are ideal as they shift focus away from the midriff effortlessly.
Wrap dresses play a vital role in contouring the midsection by visually enhancing the bust. Employing shoulder, neckline, and sleeve details helps draw attention upwards, away from the torso.
Large prints, especially diagonal patterns and different textures, can effectively mask a larger tummy. Belts, particularly medium to wide ones, can cinch the waist nicely without adding unnecessary bulk, especially when worn above the natural waistline for apple-shaped bodies.
The hemline flaring outwards aids in reducing the appearance of broad shoulders. It’s recommended to avoid delicate fabrics like fine jerseys that may inadvertently add volume around the legs.
Shorts
For apple body shapes, shorts need to harmonise the wider middle with the leaner legs. Mid-rise or high-rise shorts with a relaxed fit in the tummy area make for an ideal choice.
The hemline should extend to the knee or beyond with a loose or wide leg, which elongates the body visually and lessens the focus on the midriff.
Flat-fronted shorts that are neither too tight nor too baggy are the most flattering. Steer clear of hot pants and tight shorts, as they can accentuate the roundness of your tummy. Similarly, avoid low-rise shorts, which can cause the tummy to spill over, and overly detailed or ruched styles.
Jumpsuits and Playsuits
Due to their fitted nature, jumpsuits can be tricky for apple body shapes, as they can accentuate the wider midriff. However, a jumpsuit that skims over the midriff and is short in length can effectively draw attention to your legs.
A wrap playsuit is an excellent choice for flattering your curves while highlighting the bust.
Opting for high-waisted styles, especially those in the empire style, can also be beneficial. Flowy fabrics such as linen and chambray that drape away from the body are recommended. Avoid tight-fitted jumpsuits and playsuits or those with skinny, tapered legs.
[amazon bestseller=”jumsuit” items=”5″ ]Guidelines For Some Items To Combine With Your Outfits
Footwear Selection For The Apple Body Shape
Selecting the right footwear can effectively divert attention from your midriff. Many individuals with an apple body shape possess stunning legs, making them the perfect feature to accentuate.
Consider vibrant shoes that draw the eye towards your legs and slender ankles. Don’t hesitate to flaunt your likely attractive legs with strappy sandals.
Choosing Accessories To Complement Your Apple Body Shape Outfit
Irrespective of whether an accessory fits your waist, you can select any you fancy. However, a strategic approach in choosing your accessories can draw attention away from areas you may feel less confident about, such as your stomach or waistline, and towards other regions.
Opting for a bold accessory like a scarf, necklace, or earrings can shift the focus upwards to your face. Alternatively, choosing shoes with bright colours or patterns can guide the gaze towards your legs.
Selecting The Right Bra For An Apple Body Shape
For those with an apple body shape, possessing either moderate or full chests, finding a bra that guarantees support and comfort is crucial.
The ideal bra should provide ample lift without causing discomfort or leaving unsightly indents on your torso. Visiting a bra fitting expert is worthwhile, as many women are wearing the wrong bra size.
A bra with sturdy underwiring is recommended for optimal support and lift, and additional side boning may also be beneficial.
If your chest is of moderate size or your breasts are wide-set, consider a balconette bra – it can be very flattering. However, it’s worth noting that this style may not offer sufficient support for those with a C cup or larger.
A V-shaped or plunging bra can add a welcome lift for women whose chests are sagging slightly with age. It’s suggested to opt for half or 3/4 coverage to emphasise your cleavage subtly, should you wish to do so. A push-up bra can also achieve a similar effect.
If you have a larger, fuller chest, an unlined, underwired option with boning is the way to go. This style avoids adding unnecessary bulk, allowing you to showcase your assets comfortably.
Finally, if bra shopping appears daunting, seeking advice from a professional fitter could be your best action. They can guide you towards the correct size and style, ensuring a perfect fit for your apple body shape.
Clothing No-No’s For Apple Body Shapes
There are a few key considerations regarding clothing choices for apple body shapes. Oversized or baggy clothes can inadvertently obscure your shape, potentially making you look clumsy.
If you’re inclined to experiment with such styles, take pictures for future reference, enabling you to decipher what works and what doesn’t.
Avoid attire that draws attention to your waistline, such as contrast colour or chunky belts. They can accentuate your middle section, creating a broadening effect due to the lack of natural waist definition.
Similarly, horizontal stripes may exaggerate the width of your bust and waist, causing a perceived enlargement.
Corset-style pieces can also be challenging to pull off as they may appear restrictive around the waist and excessively emphasise your bust. The aim is to choose clothing that glides over and slightly flares from your body, steering clear from anything that cuts in or constricts the body.
Crop tops can be difficult as they draw attention to your stomach and waistline. Additionally, certain items are best avoided.
These include large puffer jackets that can widen your midsection, shapeless attire that hides the waist, trousers with numerous front pockets and zippers, and high necklines, where a V-neck would be more flattering.
Tight-fitting T-shirts that highlight every contour should also be avoided. Lastly, don’t wear one solid colour from head to toe. A better choice would be to pair colours with textures or layer different colours to create vertical lines.
The goal is to find clothes that flatter your apple body shape, especially during the hot summer months.
Summer Clothes For Apple Shape – Some Outfit Ideas For Vibrant Summer
Seize the season with our collection of summer apparel tailored for apple shapes. Whether you’re going for a relaxed vibe or ramping up the glamour for the weekend, there’s an ensemble waiting to be adored.
Casual Weekend Shopping Adventure
Get The Look: Emerald Wrap Top, Denim Blue Grace Ripped Jeggings, Beige Hobo Bag, Cream Ankle Strap Sandals
The ripped jeggings pair beautifully with the flowy wrap top, drawing attention to your legs and away from your midriff. The understated footwear and accessories ensure your ensemble takes the spotlight.
Scorching Summer Days
Get The Look: Daisy Print Wrap Top | Denim Blue Cropped Jeggings | Black Wedge Sandals
Flaunt your legs and stay fresh with our daisy print wrap top and cropped distressed jeggings. The black wedge sandals seamlessly blend with the black accents on the top.
Get The Look: Monochrome Stripe Peplum Vest, Denim Blue High-Rise Shorts, Black Strappy Sandals, Black Oval Frames
Crafted for those sweltering summer days, this outfit is one you can don confidently. The peplum hem flawlessly drapes over the denim shorts for a relaxed and breezy fit.
Get The Look: Blush Floral Off-Shoulder Top, White Distressed Skinny Jeans, White Crocodile Print Shoulder Bag, Fuchsia Block Heels
Make an unforgettable impression on your upcoming date night with this classic ‘jeans and a beautiful top’ ensemble. The off-shoulder top perfectly matches our distressed skinny jeans, offering a striking fit and emanating summer vibes. We’ve chosen white and pink accessories to complete the look.
Get The Look: Ivory Lace Bodysuit, Fuchsia Tailored Shorts, White Crocodile Print Bag, Fuchsia Block Heels
Bring this outfit to your forthcoming ladies’ brunch. The bodysuit enhances your figure as it sits beneath the tailored shorts, accentuating your waist and showcasing your neckline with the lace trim v-neck.
Explore our expanded plus-size clothing range for the freshest styles available in UK sizes 14-40.
Conclusion
Selecting summer clothes for apple shape doesn’t need to be daunting. It’s all about creating balance and accentuating your best features.
Whether it’s a green wrap top paired with distressed jeggings for a casual shopping trip or a lacy bodysuit and vibrant pink tailored shorts for an afternoon brunch with the girls, there’s a vast array of trendy options.
Remember, the key is to choose pieces that highlight your legs, define your waist, and divert attention away from the midsection. So embrace the summer season in style, confidence, and comfort while flaunting your unique apple shape!