If your waist, hips, and shoulders are about the same width—and most outfits just hang straight down—you’re probably a rectangle or what most people call “
athletic shaped.”
Here’s what no one talks about: sometimes you just want clothes that do
something
. You want a little shape. A little curve. A little “I put effort into this” without feeling like you’re faking it with a belt or ruffles.
That’s what these wardrobe staples are for. They help create movement, structure, and style—without needing a dramatic transformation. Just easy pieces that make you feel good in what you’re already working with.
Want a full outfit guide made for rectangle or athletic shapes? Grab my
Athletic Body Shape Guide
for done-for-you outfit formulas, shape-creating style tips, and real advice—no fluff.
1. When Everything Feels Too Straight and You Want a Little Curve
Try:
Peplum tops or wrap-style blouses
They bring subtle definition to the waist and give your shape a bit of softness—without doing too much.
AFRM
The Princess Peplum Top
$108
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HEARTLOOM
Elene Shirt
$99
Add It To Cart!
2. When Dresses Feel Like You’re Wearing a Tube
Try:
Dresses with built-in seams, cutouts, or ruching
Look for details that create movement around the hips or waist. Even a little shape makes a big difference.
Tularosa
Emma Midi Dress
$298
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LoveShackFancy
Linella Dress
$495
Add It to Cart!
3. When You Want a Simple Outfit That Feels Balanced
This combo adds volume where you need it and lets you control the silhouette depending on how you layer.
LIONESS
Hills Halter Top
$79
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LIONESS
Top Model Jean
$99
Add It To Cart!
4. When You Want to Add Shape Without Relying on Tight Clothes
Try:
High-waisted wide-leg pants with a tucked tee
The volume on the bottom and the higher rise help create shape at the waist and flow through the hips.
Abercrombie
Short-Sleeve Cotton-Blend Seamless Fabric Crew Bodysuit
$45
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Abercrombie
Curve Love High Rise Wide Leg Jean
$90
Add It To Cart!
5. When You Want to Feel Feminine Without Feeling Fitted
Try:
A-line skirts or flowy midis + cropped knit tops
You’ll get movement and curve in the lower half without relying on tight silhouettes up top.
LNA
Scoop Ribbed Tank
$68
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4th & Reckless
Ivey Knit Skirt
$82
Add It To Cart!
6. When You Just Want to Look Styled Without Overthinking It
Try:
Bodysuit + linen trousers + strappy flats
This combo keeps things sleek but not boring. Bonus points for a low scoop back or fun texture.
Amazon
Black Body Suit
$24.97
Add It To Cart!
Amazon
Linen Pants High Waisted
$34.99
Add It To Cart!
Amazon
Adjustable Strappy Summer Sandals
$49.95
Add It To Cart!
7. When You Want Layers But Not Bulk
Try:
Cropped shackets, lightweight trench coats, or vests
These pieces break up your proportions and add visual shape—especially when worn open with a clean base layer.
Amazon
Cropped Blazer
$40.99
Add It To Cart!
Want a full outfit guide made for rectangle or athletic shapes? Grab my
Athletic Body Shape Guide
for done-for-you outfit formulas, shape-creating style tips, and real advice—no fluff.
