Inverted triangle body shape: measurements and style guide
An inverted triangle has a bust and shoulder line that are wider than the hips.
Also called: funnel, top-heavy.
How to spot the inverted triangle shape
- Bust is at least 5% bigger than the hips
- Shoulders are broad or square
- Tops are often sized up for the chest while the bottom half is a size smaller
Calculator rule: Bust at least 5% bigger than the hips, with a waist under 85% of the bust. The bust, waist and hip measurements are taken as described on the calculator page.
How to style it
Inverted triangle styling is about softening the top and adding shape below the waist. Draped fabrics and open necklines keep the upper body relaxed, while fuller skirts, wide legs and prints on the bottom half bring the hips into balance. Athletic builds often land here, and there is nothing to fix: this is only about how clothes sit.
Lean into
- V-necks, scoop necks and open collars that break up the shoulder line
- Raglan, dolman and cap sleeves rather than structured shoulders
- Full skirts, wide-leg and flared trousers
- Colour, print or detail on the bottom half
Balance out
- Heavy shoulder pads and strong structure at the shoulders
- Boat necks and off-the-shoulder cuts that widen the line
- Skinny bottoms worn with a big, structured top
Outfit guides for the inverted triangle shape
- Best Dresses for inverted triangleYour shoulders and bust are wider than your hips, so soften the top and add movement at the hem.
- Best Jeans for inverted triangleYou have more room to play with volume below the waist.
- Best Tops for inverted triangleTops should keep the shoulders quiet and add softness at the bust.
- Best Skirts for inverted triangleVolume at the hip line helps your proportions read as even.
- Best Swimsuits for inverted triangleSwimsuits can add a little more to the lower half and soften the bust line.
- Best Jackets and Blazers for inverted triangleA jacket adds structure at the shoulders, so choose styles that keep the line soft and add shape lower down.
Common questions
Do athletic women have an inverted triangle shape?
Often, because training the back and shoulders adds width at the top, but shape depends on your measurements, not your activity. If your bust is at least 5% bigger than your hips, this is the shape the calculator will show.
Can I wear strapless tops with an inverted triangle shape?
Yes. Strapless works best with some shape at the top, such as a sweetheart neckline, and a fuller or patterned bottom half to balance it.