The Shape Of Things

It's easy to get caught up in self-improvement projects when the new year begins.

But don't forget to show your body some love just the way it is. One way to do so is to dress for your particular shape, accentuating the positive. We spoke to Boca Raton stylist Anna Lapaeva - who also offers personal shopping services - for her expert tips on dressing every body type.

MEN

Triangle (waist and hips wider than chest and shoulders): "Use  structured blazers and jackets to give shape to the shoulder line," Lapaeva says. Streamline your torso with single-breasted jackets and button-down shirts in bright or light colors.

Inverted Triangle (Y-shape, with chest and shoulders wider than hips): Clean lines are your friends. Choose slim-cut polos, V-necks and straight-leg jeans.

Oval (round, especially in stomach area): Lengthen the torso and widen the shoulders to define the body. Choose vertical stripes to lengthen and dark colors to flatter.

Rectangle (shoulders equal width as hips and waist): Structured blazers padded in the shoulders are great. Widen your chest with fitted sweaters and shirts.

WOMEN

Rectangle (similar shoulder, hip and waist measurements): Accentuate the waist with belts, peplum styles, and empire-waist and wrap dresses.

Inverted Triangle (hips narrower than shoulders): Balance the body with simple solid-colored tops and printed, light-colored or boldly hued bottoms.

Hourglass (similar bust and hip measurements with defined waist): "It's essential to choose clothes that draw attention to your waist," Lapaeva says, such as V-neck tops, wrap dresses and pencil skirts.

Pear (shoulders narrower than hips): "Highlight your shoulders to balance your shape," she says, with patterns and bateau necklines. For your bottom half, opt for tailored and flared pants, A-line and pencil skirts, and solid dark colors.

Apple (weight concentrated around midsection): "V-neck and empire- waist dresses and tops, wrap dresses and A-line dresses will do wonders for you," Lapaeva says. Choose tops extending just below the hips. Create curves with a belt right below the bust.