This post we’re celebrating the beautiful ‘H’ shape body, as showcased here by one of my gorgeous clients. Drew Barrymore is a ‘H’ shape…
The ‘H’ shares that lovely balance between the shoulders and hips (beautiful vertical proportions) but usually has less waist definition. This comes down to bone structure – when the space between the ribcage and hip bone is shorter, the waistline has less room to curve in. So, the ‘H’ naturally looks straighter through the torso.
My ‘H’ shape clients repeatedly tell me how much they dislike belts, tucking in tops, or wearing anything with obvious waist detail – and it makes sense, because these things rarely feel comfortable or flattering and feel bulky through the mid-section. If you can relate, you might just be an ‘H’ yourself!
The goal for the ‘H’ shape isn’t to “create” a waist where one doesn’t exist or exists ever so slightly, but to bring softness, shape and interest in clever ways.
Here are a few of my favourite tips:
Draw attention upward with accessories near the face, and downward with statement shoes or fun hemlines. Empire lines are fabulous – they skim just under the bust (the narrowest point) and bypast the waist. Monochrome outfits or tonal dressing keep the eye moving up and down, avoiding colour breaks at the waist. Waterfall and single-breasted jackets with princess seams elongate beautifully; you can tie the belt at the back for gentle shaping. Tops that finish just below the hip bone usually work best (rather than cutting off at the waist). Long shirts with a slim leg trouser are a dream for elongation and easy, modern styling.Work a “column of colour” – one darker shade top-to-toe down the middle and a light colour/neutral on the outside. This will elongate, minimize a wider mid-section while creating the illusion of a waist. Low shirt buttoning gives the illusion of shape through the centre.And of course, an amazing fitting bra for adequate lift & support to further lengthen the torso/waist area.What to skip? Anything boxy, double-breasted, overly belted, or with bulky details at the waist, like gathers, pleats, or patch pockets. These just highlight the area you’re better off keeping simple.
The beauty of the ‘H’ shape is its clean, contemporary silhouette. With the right styling choices, you can look sleek, balanced and effortlessly chic – no belts required.
