Body Type Calculator Shape Analysis
Body Type Calculator
Enter Your Measurements
Chest circumference at fullest part
Natural waist, just above belly button
7 inches (18 cm) below natural waist
Widest part of hips/buttocks
How to Measure Accurately
Measurement Tips:
- •Stand straight with arms at sides
- •Keep tape snug but not tight
- •Measure over bare skin or fitted clothing
- •Take measurements at the same time of day
- •Breathe normally, don't hold breath
Enter all your measurements to see your body type results
Understanding Body Types & Body Shapes
Discover the science behind body shape classification, fashion styling tips, and the health implications of different body types.
What Are Female Body Types?
Body shape classification in the fashion industry categorizes female figures based on the proportional relationships between bust, waist, and hip measurements. These classifications are primarily used for fashion and styling purposes, helping individuals understand which clothing styles, cuts, and silhouettes are most flattering for their unique proportions.
Important Context
Body shape classifications are based on societal and cultural standards that vary worldwide and change over time. The "ideal" body shape has shifted dramatically throughout history and differs significantly across cultures. No body shape is inherently better or healthier than another—these are simply descriptive categories to help with clothing selection and personal styling.
Body Shape Distribution Study
A comprehensive 2005 study conducted at North Carolina State University analyzing over 6,000 women revealed the actual distribution of body shapes in the population:
46%
Rectangle/Banana
20%
Pear/Triangle
14%
Apple/Inverted Triangle
8%
Hourglass
Despite the fashion industry's historical emphasis on the hourglass figure as "ideal," it's actually the least common body shape, representing only 8% of women. The rectangle/banana shape is nearly 6 times more prevalent.
The Seven Female Body Shapes Explained
The algorithm used in this calculator is based on research published in the International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, which identifies seven distinct body shape categories with specific mathematical criteria for classification.
Hourglass
Criteria: (Bust - Hips) ≤ 1" AND (Hips - Bust) < 3.6" AND (Bust - Waist) ≥ 9" OR (Hips - Waist) ≥ 10"
Often considered the "classic" feminine silhouette, the hourglass shape features balanced bust and hip measurements with a significantly narrower waist. This shape naturally emphasizes curves and is characterized by even weight distribution.
Style tip: Emphasize your waist with belts, wrap dresses, and fitted styles that follow your natural curves.
Bottom Hourglass & Spoon
Criteria: Hips larger than bust by 3.6-10", well-defined waist (≥9" difference)
Similar to the hourglass but with more pronounced hips and thighs. The spoon variant has a higher hip shelf. Weight tends to accumulate in the hip, thigh, and buttocks area. This shape is associated with lower health risks due to peripheral fat distribution.
Style tip: Balance proportions with embellished or detailed tops, and use darker colors on bottom to streamline the lower body.
Rectangle (Banana/Straight)
Criteria: Bust and hips within 3.6" of each other, waist less than 9" smaller
The most common body shape (46% of women), characterized by similar measurements for bust, waist, and hips, creating a straight silhouette. This athletic build often has less defined curves but offers versatility in fashion choices.
Style tip: Create curves with layering, peplums, belts at the natural waist, and textured fabrics that add dimension.
Triangle (Pear)
Criteria: Hips ≥ 3.6" larger than bust, waist difference < 9"
Narrow shoulders and fuller hips characterize this shape, with weight concentrated in the lower body. Represents about 20% of women. This fat distribution pattern is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk compared to apple shapes.
Style tip: Draw attention upward with bright colors, patterns, and structured shoulders. Use A-line and empire waist styles.
Inverted Triangle (Apple)
Criteria: Bust ≥ 3.6" larger than hips, waist difference < 9"
Broader shoulders and bust with narrower hips create an athletic, top-heavy silhouette. Represents about 14% of women. This shape may carry more weight in the abdominal area, which requires monitoring as central obesity carries higher health risks.
Style tip: Create balance with V-necks, darker tops, and detailed or voluminous bottoms like A-line skirts and bootcut pants.
Waist-Hip Ratio: A Better Health Indicator
While body shape classification is useful for fashion, the Waist-Hip Ratio (WHR) is far more important for health assessment. WHR is calculated by dividing waist circumference by hip circumference, providing insight into fat distribution patterns and associated health risks.
Apple Shape (High WHR)
Fat Distribution: Central/abdominal obesity
WHR: Typically > 0.85 for females
Health Risks:
- • Higher cardiovascular disease risk
- • Increased diabetes risk
- • Elevated blood pressure concerns
- • Higher metabolic syndrome rates
- • Greater inflammation markers
Pear Shape (Low WHR)
Fat Distribution: Peripheral/lower body
WHR: Typically 0.70-0.80 for females
Health Profile:
- • Lower cardiovascular disease risk
- • Better metabolic health markers
- • Reduced diabetes incidence
- • Lower inflammation levels
- • Protective fat distribution pattern
Why WHR Matters More Than BMI
Research by Yusuf et al. (2005) published in The Lancet found that if obesity were redefined based on WHR rather than BMI, the proportion of people categorized as at risk for heart attack would increase threefold. This demonstrates that fat distribution location is more important than total body fat for predicting health outcomes.
WHR and Fertility
WHR also correlates with reproductive health and fertility:
- • Optimal female WHR (0.70-0.79): Associated with highest pregnancy rates and hormonal balance
- • WHR above 0.80: Studies show significantly lower pregnancy rates and potential hormonal disruption
- • Male WHR around 0.9: Associated with better fertility, lower prostate cancer risk, and overall health
Understanding Fat Distribution & Health
Not all body fat is equal. Where your body stores fat has significant implications for your long-term health, independent of your total body weight or BMI.
Visceral Fat (Abdominal)
Fat stored deep in the abdomen, surrounding vital organs like the liver, pancreas, and intestines.
Health Impact:
- • Metabolically active—releases inflammatory compounds
- • Directly affects liver function and insulin resistance
- • Linked to cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes
- • Associated with certain cancers and dementia
- • Increases risk of stroke and hypertension
Subcutaneous Fat (Peripheral)
Fat stored under the skin, particularly in hips, thighs, and buttocks.
Health Impact:
- • Metabolically neutral or protective
- • Acts as energy storage without significant health risk
- • May provide protective hormonal effects
- • Lower association with metabolic diseases
- • Generally considered healthier fat distribution
Improving Your WHR: Practical Steps
Diet Modifications:
- • Reduce refined carbohydrates and sugar
- • Increase fiber intake (vegetables, whole grains)
- • Choose lean proteins and healthy fats
- • Limit alcohol consumption
- • Control portion sizes and caloric intake
Exercise Strategies:
- • Cardiovascular exercise (150+ min/week)
- • Strength training (2-3 days/week)
- • High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- • Core strengthening exercises
- • Reduce sedentary time throughout day
Universal Styling Tips for All Body Types
While each body shape has specific flattering styles, certain universal principles apply to everyone looking to dress with confidence and style.
Proportion Balance
Create visual balance by adding volume where needed and streamlining where you have more. The goal is harmonious proportions, not changing your natural shape.
Proper Fit is Everything
Well-fitted clothing that follows your body's lines looks better than trendy pieces that don't fit properly. Invest in tailoring for key wardrobe pieces.
Confidence is Key
The most important "accessory" is confidence. Wear what makes you feel good, comfortable, and authentic to your personal style, regardless of "rules."
Color and Pattern Strategies:
Dark colors
Create slimming effects and streamline silhouettes
Bright colors/patterns
Draw attention and create visual interest in specific areas
Vertical lines
Elongate the body and create height illusion
Horizontal lines
Add width and volume to areas that need balance
Essential Body Type & Health Takeaways
All Shapes Are Normal
Body shape distribution shows wide variety is natural. The "ideal" hourglass represents only 8% of women. Your shape is unique and valid.
WHR Over Body Shape
For health assessment, focus on waist-hip ratio (WHR) rather than body shape category. WHR predicts health risks better than BMI or shape.
Style Is Personal
Use body shape insights as guidelines, not rules. Experiment, find what makes you feel confident, and embrace your unique proportions.
Final Thoughts: This calculator provides fashion-focused body shape classification and health-relevant WHR analysis. Remember that body shape is just one small aspect of your overall health and appearance. Focus on maintaining healthy habits, monitoring meaningful health markers like WHR, blood pressure, and metabolic health, and most importantly, cultivating body confidence regardless of your shape. Every body type can be healthy, beautiful, and well-dressed when you understand and embrace your unique proportions.