The triangle body shape, or the ‘pear’ shaped body, is characterised by broader hips and a wider waist compared to narrower shoulders and chest.
This silhouette presents unique styling opportunities for men who want to create a balanced, fashionable look.
Unlike the inverted triangle body or the rectangular body shapes, the triangle body shape requires specific styling techniques to create proportion and draw attention upwards.
In this article, you’ll learn how to master these techniques to create a wardrobe that boosts your confidence and ensures an impeccable look for any season or occasion.
Triangle Body Type Characteristics
To dress for your triangle body shape effectively it’s crucial to understand your body’s unique characteristics and how they compare to other common male body types.
The table below outlines the key features of the triangle (pear) shape alongside the inverted 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 triangle silhouette.
| Body Part | Triangle (Pear) Shape | Inverted Triangle Shape | Rectangle Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoulders | Narrower than hips | Broader than waist | Similar width to the waist |
| Chest | Less pronounced | Well-defined | Straight |
| Waist | Wider than shoulders | Narrower than shoulders | Similar to shoulders and hips |
| Hips | Broader than shoulders | Narrower than shoulders | Similar to shoulders |
| Styling Tip | Emphasise upper body | Add volume to lower body | Create definition, add shape |
Triangle Body Shape Styling Principles
Dressing a triangle body shape requires a strategic approach to create visual balance and accentuate your best features.
Here are the fundamental styling principles for the triangle body shape to keep in mind:
| Principle | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Broaden the Shoulders | Use structured jackets and horizontal details to create width in the upper body |
| Draw Attention Upwards | Employ eye-catching details and accessories above the waist |
| Balance Proportions | Choose straight or slightly looser fits for trousers to counterbalance the lower body |
| Create Vertical Lines | Use vertical patterns and layering to elongate the torso |
| Strategic Colour Placement | Wear darker colours below the waist and lighter or brighter colours on top |
Broaden the Shoulders
The key to dressing a triangle body shape is creating the illusion of broader shoulders. Opt for jackets and coats with structured shoulders or subtle padding.
A double-breasted blazer in navy or charcoal can work wonders, especially when paired with peak lapels that draw the eye outwards.
For casual wear, wear rugby shirts or Breton tops with bold horizontal stripes across the chest.
Draw Attention Upwards
Redirect focus to your upper body by incorporating interesting details above the waist. A pocket square in a contrasting hue, like burgundy against a grey suit, can be a subtle yet effective tool.
For more casual settings, experiment with statement necklaces or bold scarves. A chunky knit scarf in a rich forest green can add texture and visual interest to your ensemble.
Balance Proportions
While it’s tempting to opt for skinny jeans, they can accentuate the disproportion between your upper and lower body. Instead, choose straight-leg trousers or jeans with a slight taper.
A pair of indigo selvedge denim jeans with a straight cut can be versatile for both smart-casual and relaxed settings.
For formal occasions, opt for trousers with a medium break to create a clean, elongated silhouette.
Create Vertical Lines
Vertical patterns and layering techniques can help elongate your torso, creating a more balanced appearance. A pinstripe suit in charcoal grey is a classic choice for formal settings.
For a more relaxed look, layer an oatmeal longline cardigan over a white T-shirt paired with dark wash jeans. This combination creates a vertical line while adding depth to your outfit.
Strategic Colour Placement
Use colour to your advantage by wearing darker shades on your lower half and lighter or brighter colours on top.
This draws the eye upward and minimises attention on the hips and thighs. A cream cable-knit jumper paired with chocolate brown chinos can create a sophisticated, balanced look.
For a bolder approach, try a mustard yellow bomber jacket over a white T-shirt, matched with navy trousers.
Triangle Body Type Essential Wardrobe
Building a versatile wardrobe that flatters your triangle body shape is key to consistently looking your best.
The key is to choose garments, patterns, and colours that draw attention to your upper body and here’s a curated list of essential garments that to form the foundation of your future wardrobe:
| Category | Essential Items |
|---|---|
| Outerwear | Structured blazers, padded shoulder jackets, double-breasted coats |
| Tops | V-neck jumpers, vertical striped shirts, patterned chest polo shirts |
| Bottoms | Straight-leg trousers, dark wash jeans, tailored chinos |
| Accessories | Pocket squares, wide lapel ties, statement watches |
| Footwear | Chelsea boots, brogues, loafers with high soles |
Outerwear
Wear a well-structured blazer in navy worsted wool to add definition to your shoulders. A camel hair double-breasted coat is ideal to create a broader chest silhouette.
You can also wear a khaki field jacket with epaulettes to add visual interest to your shoulders.
Tops
V-neck jumpers in merino wool in burgundy or forest green can create a flattering neckline while drawing attention upwards.
Cotton poplin shirts striped vertically in blue and white Bengal stripes are great for elongating your torso.
And, to broaden your upper body and create a sporty look, wear polo shirts with patterned chests or contrast yokes.
Trousers
Straight-leg trousers in a charcoal wool blend are great for formal occasions.
Dark wash jeans in a straight or slightly tapered fit provide versatility for smart-casual events.
Tailored chinos in neutral tones like stone or navy are perfect for bridging the gap between formal and casual.
Accessories
Pocket squares in silk twill with bold patterns, such as paisley or geometric prints, add a pop of colour and draw the eye upwards.
Wide lapel ties in textured fabrics such as grenadine or knitted silk create width across the chest.
A statement watch with a larger face, like a pilot’s chronograph, adds visual weight to your wrists and balances your proportions.
Footwear
Chelsea boots in polished black leather elongate your legs while providing a sleek silhouette.
Brogues in rich tan or oxblood add visual interest without overwhelming your frame.
To add height and balance to your overall silhouette wear loafers with thick soles, such as penny loafers with a chunky rubber sole.
Triangle Body Shape Outfit Ideas by Ocassion
Putting together flattering outfits for your triangle 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 three-piece suit in a subtle herringbone pattern.
The waistcoat adds structure to your torso, while the jacket’s roped shoulders create definition.
Pair this with a crisp white twill shirt featuring a cutaway collar to broaden your neckline.
Add a pop of colour with a deep purple silk tie. Its diagonal stripes create an elongating effect.
Tuck a paisley pocket square in complementary hues of lavender and grey into your breast pocket, drawing the eye upward.
Finish the look with polished black Oxford shoes and a sleek silver chronograph watch.
Urban Casual
Begin with a white crew-neck T-shirt as your base and a light-washed denim shirt, leaving it unbuttoned to create vertical lines.
Top it off with a sage green utility jacket featuring epaulettes and chest pockets, which will add breadth to your shoulders and chest.
Match with straight-leg chinos in a rich tobacco brown, which complements the earthy tones of your upper half while providing a streamlined look for your lower body.
Slip on a pair of desert boots in sand suede for a casual yet put-together finish.
Accessorise with a woven leather belt and a messenger bag worn across the body, adding horizontal lines to your upper torso.
Evening Event
Start with a lightweight blazer in azure blue linen cotton, a vibrant colour that draws attention upward, while the structured shoulders enhance your upper body.
Pair with a soft pink Egyptian cotton shirt, leaving the top two buttons undone to create a V-neck effect.
Match with cotton blend tailored trousers in cream and rolled cuffs to show a hint of ankle, creating a modern silhouette.
Step into a pair of penny loafers in rich tan leather, their substantial shape grounding the outfit.
Accessorise with a silk pocket square featuring a geometric print in shades of blue and pink, echoing your shirt and jacket.
Add a final touch of sophistication with a rose gold dress watch featuring a slim profile.
This outfit is perfect for outdoor summer parties or upscale restaurant dinners, showcasing your style prowess while beautifully flattering your triangle shape.
Triangle Body Shape Outfits by Season
Dressing your triangle 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:
Triangle Body Shape Outfit for Spring
As the weather warms, opt for lightweight blazers in textured fabrics like cotton-linen blends.
Pair these with Oxford cloth button-down shirts and chinos. A Harrington jacket can provide a casual yet structured look for your upper body.
Experiment with pastel colours on top while keeping your lower half in neutral tones.
Triangle Body Shape Outfit for Summer
In warmer months, focus on lightweight fabrics that don’t cling to your lower body. Opt for linen-blend trousers in a relaxed fit paired with structured short-sleeve shirts.
A camp collar shirt in a bold print can add width to your shoulders.
Choose swim shorts with a small print for beachwear and pair them with a contrast-trim Rash guard to balance your proportions.
Triangle Body Shape Outfit for Autumn
Autumn is ideal for layering, which can help balance your silhouette. Try a lightweight Merino roll-neck under a tweed sports jacket.
Add a textured scarf for extra volume up top. Opt for moleskin trousers in earth tones to complement the richer autumnal palette while maintaining a streamlined lower half.
Triangle Body Shape Outfit for Winter
Cold weather presents an opportunity to add structure to your upper body. A peacoat with strong shoulders is an excellent choice.
Layer with chunky knit cardigans and Fair Isle jumpers to add bulk to your chest and shoulders. Balance this with straight-leg corduroy trousers or dark denim jeans.
Add leather gloves and a cashmere beanie for both warmth and style.
Triangle Body Shape Do’s and Don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Wear structured jackets with padded shoulders | Choose jackets with dropped shoulders or no structure |
| Opt for straight-leg or slightly tapered trousers | Wear skinny jeans or very tight-fitting trousers |
| Choose vertical stripes and patterns for tops | Wear horizontal stripes below the chest |
| Use bold colours and patterns on your upper body | Wear attention-grabbing prints on your lower half |
| Layer with vests, waistcoats, and open shirts | Wear bulky, untucked shirts or jumpers |
| Select darker colours for trousers and shoes | Choose light-coloured or bold-patterned trousers |
| Accessorise with pocket squares and lapel pins | Wear large belt buckles or statement belts |
| Choose V-neck or scoop-neck tops | Opt for turtlenecks or high-crew necks |
Conclusion
Understanding and dressing for your triangle 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 balance your proportions, draw attention upwards, 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’re looking to take your style to the next level and get personalised advice tailored specifically to your body shape, consider investing in a professional body shape analysis.
Take the Next Step in Your Style Journey
Start with our free body shape quiz for men to discover your body type and shape, a must-know before you start looking for tips on how to dress your unique physique.
Our expert stylists will analyse your body shape and create a bespoke guide that includes:
- Detailed analysis of your body type and shape
- Recommendations for the best clothing to balance and enhance your shape
- 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 triangle body shape.
Ready to transform your style with expert guidance? Click here to explore The VOU’s Body Shape Analysis for Men and take the first step towards a more confident, stylish you.