How to Dress for an Athletic Body Type

Dressing for your body type can make a big difference in how you feel and how your clothes fit. If you have an athletic body type, you may have strong, well-defined muscles, broad shoulders, and a straight waistline.

This shape comes with its own unique challenges when it comes to clothing. But with the right tips, you can accentuate your best features and feel confident in any outfit enhancing both your body and mind.

In this article, we’ll walk you through some simple guidelines on how to dress for an athletic body type.

Understanding the Athletic Body Type

People with athletic body types often have a more rectangular shape, with broad shoulders and a less defined waist. While this is a strong and beautiful body type, it can sometimes feel tricky to create balance or add curves with clothing. The goal when dressing for an athletic body is often to highlight your muscles, create a defined waist, and add balance between your upper and lower body.

Tops for Athletic Body Types

When choosing tops, it’s important to pick styles that add some softness to your look and create a balanced silhouette. Since people with athletic body types tend to have broader shoulders, wearing tops that draw attention to the waist can create a more defined figure.

Opt for V-Necks and Scoop Necks

V-neck and scoop neck tops are great for breaking up the width of broad shoulders. These necklines create a more elongated look and help balance out your upper body. The open neckline draws the eye downward, creating a slimming effect around the shoulders.

Fitted and Tailored Tops Work Best

Loose, boxy tops can make your upper body look larger and bulkier. Instead, opt for fitted or tailored tops that skim your waist and highlight your figure. Wrap tops are also great because they cinch in at the waist and give the illusion of a more defined shape. If you prefer something looser, try tucking your shirt into your pants to bring attention to your waistline.

Layer with Jackets or Blazers

Jackets and blazers are great for adding structure to your outfit, but you want to make sure they don’t add extra bulk. Choose jackets with a more tailored fit, particularly around the shoulders and waist. Blazers with nipped-in waists will highlight your middle and create a more hourglass shape. Avoid jackets that have padded shoulders, as these will only make your shoulders look wider.

Bottoms for Athletic Body Types

Finding the right bottoms is all about adding curves and balance to your athletic frame. Since your upper body may be more dominant, you want to find pants or skirts that add some volume to your lower half.

Go for High-Waisted Pants

High-waisted pants are a great option for athletic body types because they define your waist and create the illusion of curves. Whether you’re wearing jeans, trousers, or shorts, choose styles that sit at or above your natural waist. High-waisted pants also lengthen your legs, which helps balance out broader shoulders.

Choose Pants with Interesting Details

If you want to add volume to your lower body, look for pants with interesting details like pleats, pockets, or patterns. Cargo pants, wide-leg trousers, and flared jeans all create movement and balance. Avoid skinny jeans that cling too closely to your legs, as these can make your top half look even broader by comparison.

A-Line Skirts and Dresses Are Your Friend

If you prefer skirts and dresses, opt for A-line or fit-and-flare styles. These cuts cinch in at the waist and then flare out, adding volume to your hips and creating a more hourglass figure. A-line skirts are especially flattering for athletic body types because they add curves in all the right places.

Dresses for Athletic Body Types

Dresses are a great way to create a balanced and feminine silhouette. The key is to choose dresses that define your waist and highlight your legs or add curves.

Wrap Dresses and Belted Styles

Wrap dresses are perfect for athletic body types because they emphasize your waist while also providing some volume around your hips. Belted dresses or dresses with a fitted waistline work similarly, giving your figure more definition. You can also try pairing a belt with looser dresses to create more shape around your middle.

Off-the-Shoulder and Asymmetrical Necklines

Dresses with off-the-shoulder or asymmetrical necklines are a great way to soften the look of broad shoulders. These necklines draw attention away from your upper body and create a more balanced look. Plus, they add a touch of elegance and femininity to your outfit.

Dresses with Skirt Volume

Choosing dresses that flare out at the bottom, like fit-and-flare or A-line styles, can help balance your upper body and create a curvier silhouette. If you want to go for a more fitted look, try pencil skirts that hug your hips and create a streamlined shape, but make sure to define your waist to avoid looking too boxy.

Accessories to Enhance an Athletic Frame

Accessories can be used to enhance your outfit and draw attention to your best features. For an athletic body type, you’ll want to focus on adding details that bring balance and softness to your overall look.

Belts Are Essential

Belts are one of the best accessories for athletic body types because they help define the waist. Pairing a belt with dresses, tops, or high-waisted pants can instantly create more shape and make your waistline the focal point. Choose a belt that is wide enough to stand out but not too bulky, as this can detract from the overall look.

Go for Statement Jewelry

Bold or statement jewelry is a great way to add personality to your outfit and draw attention away from broad shoulders. Long necklaces or layered chains elongate your torso, while chunky bracelets and rings add some extra style without overwhelming your frame. Just be mindful not to overdo it—stick with one or two statement pieces to keep your look balanced.

Shoes for Athletic Body Types

Choosing the right shoes can also make a big difference in how your outfit comes together. For athletic body types, shoes can help elongate your legs and add balance to your overall look.

Go for Heels or Pointed-Toe Flats

Heels are great for creating height and making your legs look longer, which helps balance out a more muscular upper body. If you’re not a fan of high heels, pointed-toe flats can also have a leg-lengthening effect and add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

Avoid Chunky Shoes

Since athletic body types tend to have a stronger build, wearing chunky shoes can make your legs look shorter and more muscular. Instead, opt for sleek, streamlined shoes that create a more elegant and balanced appearance.

Fabrics and Patterns for Athletic Body Types

The fabrics and patterns you choose can also affect how your clothes fit and how they highlight your shape. Certain fabrics can add bulk, while others create a more streamlined silhouette.

Opt for Softer Fabrics

Stiff or heavy fabrics can make an athletic body type look more boxy and rigid. Instead, choose softer, flowy fabrics like silk, cotton, or jersey, which will drape more naturally over your body and create a softer, more feminine look.

Play with Patterns

Patterns can be a fun way to add some personality to your outfit. For athletic body types, you can experiment with prints that create movement or add volume to your lower half. For example, horizontal stripes on your bottom half can add width and balance your broader shoulders. Vertical stripes on your top half can help elongate your torso and slim down your upper body.

To Wrap It Up

Athlete body is good and attractive, but it comes with its own challenges. As an athlete, focus on the right clothing and also follow the tips shared in this article. The combination of both will help you dress comfortably yet attractively.

While these guidelines can help you find flattering outfits, the most important thing is to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Fashion is all about expressing your individuality, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and find what works best for you.

Do you need more guidance on the best clothes and how best to dress for your athletic body type? Sports fashion advisers and apparel brands are waiting to hold your hand on this on Sportconn.

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