The oval body shape, also called the ’round’ shape, is characterised by a fuller midsection, narrower shoulders, and slimmer legs.
Unlike the triangle body type or straight body shape, the oval shape requires specific styling techniques to create a more defined silhouette and elongate the torso.
Yet, the round body silhouette presents unique dressing opportunities for men who want to accentuate their best features and create visual harmony.
In this article, we’ll cover unique styling techniques for oval-shaped body types to boost your confidence, transform your wardrobe, and ensure you look impeccable for any occasion or season.
Oval Body Type Specifics
To effectively dress for your oval body shape, it’s crucial to understand its unique characteristics and how it compares to other common male body types.
The table below outlines the key features of the oval shape alongside the triangle and rectangle shapes, highlighting the distinct differences in proportions and styling approaches.
This comparison will help you identify your body type with certainty and understand why specific styling techniques are particularly effective for the oval silhouette.
| Body Part | Oval Shape | Triangle (Pear) | Rectangle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulders | Narrower than midsection | Narrower than hips | Similar width to waist and hips |
| Chest | Less defined | Less pronounced | Straight |
| Waist | Fuller, rounded midsection | Wider than shoulders | Similar to shoulders and hips |
| Hips | Narrower than midsection | Broader than shoulders | Similar to shoulders |
| Legs | Slimmer compared to upper body | Proportional to upper body | Straight, similar width to the upper body |
| Styling Tip | Elongate the torso and define the waist | Emphasise upper body | Create definition, add shape |
Oval Body Shape Styling Principles
Dressing an oval body shape requires a strategic approach to create visual balance and accentuate your best features.
Here are the fundamental styling principles for the oval body shape to keep in mind:
| Principle | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Elongate the Torso | Use vertical lines and monochromatic outfits to create a longer, leaner silhouette |
| Define the Waist | Choose garments that create structure and definition at the narrowest part of your torso |
| Balance Proportions | Select clothing that adds structure to shoulders and creates a more proportional look |
| Draw Attention Upwards | Use details and accessories to direct focus towards your face and upper body |
| Strategic Fabric Choices | Opt for lighter, drapey fabrics that skim the body rather than cling to it |
Elongate the Torso
The key to dressing an oval body shape is creating the illusion of a longer, leaner torso. Opt for vertical stripes and pinstripes in shirts and suits.
A charcoal pinstripe suit paired with a crisp white shirt can work wonders for your silhouette.
For casual wear, consider a navy vertical striped polo shirt with dark wash jeans to create a streamlined look.
Define the Waist
While you want to avoid drawing too much attention to your midsection, subtle waist definition can create a more balanced silhouette.
Wear jackets and coats with a slight taper at the waist, but avoid tight or belted styles.
A single-breasted blazer in navy or charcoal with a gentle waist suppression can be a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
Balance Proportions
Adding structure to your shoulders can help balance your overall proportions. Look for jackets and shirts with lightly padded or structured shoulders.
A tweed sports jacket with shoulder padding can add definition to your upper body while maintaining a classic look.
Draw Attention Upwards
Direct focus towards your face and upper body by incorporating interesting details above the waist.
A pocket square in a bold pattern or a statement tie can be effective tools.
For casual settings, consider v-neck sweaters or shirts to create a lengthening effect on your neck and torso.
Key Fabrics
Opt for fabrics that drape well and don’t cling to the body. Lightweight wools, cotton blends, and fabrics with a bit of stretch can be flattering.
A merino wool jumper in a deep burgundy can provide comfort and style while skimming over your midsection.
Oval Body Type Wardrobe Essentials
Building a versatile wardrobe that flatters your oval body shape is key to consistently looking your best.
Here’s a curated list of essential garments to form the foundation of your round body shape wardrobe:
| Category | Essential Clothes |
|---|---|
| Outerwear | Single-breasted blazers, long parkas, structured sport coats |
| Tops | V-neck sweaters, vertical striped shirts, empire waist tops |
| Bottoms | Dark wash straight-leg jeans, flat-front trousers, medium-rise pants |
| Accessories | Patterned ties, statement watches, long scarves |
| Footwear | Oxford shoes, Chelsea boots, loafers with substantial soles |
Outerwear
Invest in a well-structured single-breasted blazer in navy worsted wool to add definition to your shoulders and create a slimming effect.
A long parka in a dark colour like forest green can provide a streamlined look for casual wear.
Wear a textured sports coat in a subtle herringbone pattern to add visual interest without bulk.
Tops
V-neck sweaters in fine merino wool are excellent for elongating your torso. Opt for colours like deep plum or charcoal.
Vertically striped shirts in crisp cotton poplin, such as blue and white Bengal stripes, create a lengthening effect.
For a casual look, empire waist tops can help define your narrowest point.
Trousers
Dark wash straight-leg jeans in a medium rise are versatile and flattering.
Opt for flat-front trousers in wool blends for formal occasions, avoiding pleats which can add bulk.
Chinos in neutral tones like navy or khaki, chosen in a straight or slightly tapered fit, are perfect for smart-casual events.
Accessories
Patterned ties in silk twill with vertical designs can add a pop of colour while creating a slimming effect.
A statement watch with a larger face, like a classic dress watch, adds visual interest to your wrists.
Long scarves in lightweight fabrics can add vertical lines to your outfit in cooler weather.
Footwear
Oxford shoes in polished black leather provide a classic, elongating effect for formal wear. Chelsea boots in dark brown suede offer a sleek silhouette for smart casual outfits.
Loafers with substantial soles can add height and balance to your overall look for more casual settings.
Oval Body Shape Outfit Ideas by Occasion
Putting together flattering outfits for your oval body shape becomes effortless once you understand the key principles.
Here are three looks curated by our stylists for different occasions, demonstrating how to apply your styling knowledge effectively.
Business Attire
Start with a charcoal grey single-breasted suit in a subtle pinstripe pattern.
The vertical lines will create a slimming effect, while the structured shoulders define your upper body.
Pair this with a light blue dress shirt featuring a moderate spread collar to balance your face shape.
Add a silk tie in a deep burgundy with a small geometric pattern, creating visual interest without overwhelming your frame.
Slip on a pair of black cap-toe Oxfords to elongate your legs. Finish the look with a silver tie clip and a simple white pocket square for a touch of sophistication.
Weekend Casual
Begin with a navy V-neck cotton sweater, which will create a lengthening effect on your torso. Layer this over a light grey t-shirt for added depth without bulk.
Pair these with straight-leg chinos in a khaki colour, ensuring they sit at your natural waist.
Add a lightweight navy bomber jacket with minimal detailing to create structure without adding volume to your midsection.
Wear brown suede desert boots for a casual yet put-together finish, and accessorise with a woven leather belt in a matching brown and a simple silver watch to complete the look.
Evening Events
Opt for a lightweight blazer in a textured navy linen-cotton blend. The texture adds interest, while the dark colour creates a slimming effect.
Pair this with a pale pink dress shirt, leaving the top two buttons undone to create a lengthening V-neck effect.
Choose well-fitting trousers in light grey tropical wool, which will drape nicely and keep you cool.
The contrast between the dark jacket and light trousers helps to break up your silhouette. Step into a pair of brown leather loafers with a substantial sole to add height subtly.
Accessorise with a patterned pocket square in shades of pink and blue, echoing your shirt and jacket.
Add a final touch of sophistication with a slim rose gold watch. This outfit balances style and comfort, perfect for outdoor summer events or upscale dinners.
Dressing Oval Body Shape by Seasons
Dressing your oval body shape effectively throughout the year requires some seasonal adjustments.
Here’s how to maintain your style and flatter your physique across different weather conditions:
Oval Body Shape Outfit for Spring
As the weather warms, opt for lightweight blazers in textured fabrics like cotton-linen blends, which provide structure without added bulk.
Pair these with pastel-coloured Oxford shirts and chinos in neutral tones and a Harrington jacket to create a casual yet structured look for the upper part of your body.
Experiment with vertical striped polo shirts to create a lengthening effect.
Oval Body Shape Outfit for Summer
In warmer months, focus on breathable fabrics that don’t cling to your body.
Wear linen or seersucker shirts in vertical stripes paired with straight-leg shorts that hit just above the knee.
A Cuban collar shirt in a bold print can add width to your shoulders while drawing attention upward.
For beachwear, choose swim shorts with a small, vertical pattern and pair with a solid-coloured rash guard for sun protection and a balanced look.
Oval Body Shape Outfit for Autumn
Autumn is ideal for layering, which can help create a more defined silhouette.
Try a lightweight merino turtleneck under a tweed sports jacket with subtle shoulder padding. Add a long scarf for extra vertical lines.
Opt for dark-wash jeans or moleskin trousers in earth tones to complement the richer autumnal palette while maintaining a streamlined lower half.
Oval Body Shape Outfit for Winter
Cold weather allows you to add structure to your upper body without bulk. A single-breasted wool overcoat that ends mid-thigh is an excellent choice.
Layer with V-neck sweaters and cardigans to create a lengthening effect and balance with straight-leg corduroy trousers or dark denim jeans.
Add leather gloves and a cashmere scarf for warmth and style. The scarf should be worn long to create vertical lines.
Oval Body Shape Do’s and Don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Wear vertical stripes and patterns | Choose horizontal stripes or large, busy patterns |
| Opt for V-neck or scoop-neck tops | Wear turtlenecks or high-crew necks |
| Choose single-breasted jackets and coats | Wear double-breasted or belted jackets |
| Select darker colours for your main pieces | Opt for light colours or bold patterns on large areas |
| Wear straight-leg or slightly tapered trousers | Choose skinny jeans or very loose, baggy pants |
| Use layering to create vertical lines | Wear bulky, chunky knits or oversized sweaters |
| Choose medium-rise trousers and jeans | Opt for low-rise pants that can create a ‘muffin top’ effect |
| Accessorise with long scarves and ties | Wear large belt buckles or statement belts |
Conclusion
Understanding and dressing for your oval body shape is a journey of self-discovery and style refinement.
By applying the principles, tips, and outfit ideas we’ve explored, you can create a wardrobe that flatters your physique and expresses your unique personality.
Remember, the key is to create a longer, leaner silhouette, define your waist subtly, and choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.
However, mastering your personal style is an ongoing process, and sometimes, expert guidance can make all the difference.
If you want to take your style to the next level and get personalised advice tailored to your body shape, consider investing in a professional body shape analysis.
Next Step in Your Style Journey
Our comprehensive Body Shape Analysis for Men service will provide invaluable insights into your unique physique and how to dress it perfectly.
Our expert stylists will analyse your body shape and create a bespoke guide that includes:
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- Advice on fabrics and embellishments that flatter your physique
- Tips on correct clothing style, proportions, lengths, and fit
- Guidance on choosing clothes for various occasions and seasons
With packages ranging from basic to expert level, you can choose the depth of analysis that suits your needs and budget.
This personalised guide can be a game-changer in your style journey, helping you shop smarter, dress more confidently, and truly make the most of your oval body shape.
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Get your Male Image Consultant
Knowing your body type is just a small step towards dressing like a successful, confident gentleman.
To dress like a wealthy gentleman you must also know your seasonal colour palette, so you can match your fashion with your skin, eye, and hair colours.
True fashion mastery requires an understanding of what to shop and how to match relevant garments, footwear, and accessories to you, from classic, heritage fashion brands.
Last but not least you must know how to dress not only according to your body body shape and colour palette, but also according to the occasion, location, time of the day, and even your unique lifestyle!
And if you feel a bit overwhelmed, worry no more as we’re here to help you, step by step. First, take our free expert quiz to find your body shape.
1. Find Your Body Shape
Different garments flatter different physiques so discover your body shape now by taking our free body shape quiz for men.
Follow up with our next free quiz to find out your unique seasonal colour palette:
2. Find Your Seasonal Colors
Fashion comes in a wide range of colours, but not every hue will complement your natural colouring so find out your ideal colours with our free seasonal colour quiz for men.
Third, learn how to dress by occasion, location, season, and even time of the day.
Knowing how to choose and style garments from various heritage brands, and style them by occasion, season, location, and body shape is crucial.
From casual weekends to formal events, each occasion requires a unique approach to styling.
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3. Find Your Ideal Style
Take our comprehensive fashion style analysis for men, and let our expert stylists guide you in selecting and curating items of maximum impact in a wardrobe that communicates success and confidence.
Remember, owning luxury brands isn’t enough; to look stylish, confident, and successful you must know your body type, and colour palette and how to style according to the occasion, location, time of the day, and season.
With these tools and expert guidance, you’ll not just wear the brand—you’ll master it, creating a wardrobe that truly reflects a unique fashion taste and many achievements.