The apple shaped body is characterized by a top heavy upper body with slender arms, legs, and hips as well as a flatter bottom. Also called the O-shape, the tendency is to have broad shoulders, a full bust, and softer middle with weight gain concentrated around the waist. There is plenty to flaunt with an apple shape so here’s how to make the most of this figure.
The best way highlight your assets and balance out an apple shape is by showing off legs. Check out these tips for finding the best jeans for an apple shaped body.
What to Avoid
Let’s start with what not to wear. It’s easy to think that highlighting hot legs is all about finding the tightest skinny jeans or leggings but that will actually backfire for apple shapes. Going too tight on the bottom makes legs look smaller and the waist seem bigger.
Second, pants should not draw attention to your belly. Skip anything with buttons, pleats, multiple zippers, or embellished waistlines. These just add more bulk where you don’t want it. High-waisted pants also not flattering.
Mid Rise
A lower or mid rise pant hits the sweet spot between creating a muffin top and emphasizing the waist. The waistband should hit just below the belly button. A wide waistband and denim with 1-2% elastic helps cinch the midsection.
1. Old Navy Plus Universal Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans promise to flatter all body types. Although labeled skinny, they are somewhat loose in the leg. Some reviewers recommend ordering a size up so try your regular size and the next one just in case.
Straight Leg
Skinny jeans can be too tight so look for straight leg silhouettes instead. Apple shapes benefit from some width in the leg area to balance a thicker middle. Straight leg jeans and pants still show off legs but with some volume on the bottom.
2. NYDJ ‘Hayley’ Stretch Straight Leg Jeans Soft and stretchy jeans with a signature back-pocket design feature NYDJ’s famously flattering fit enhanced with exclusive lift-tuck technology to help flatten the tummy and lift the rear.
Boot Cut
Bootcut jeans are fitted in the thigh and flare out from the knee to the hem so boots can be worn underneath. The key to making the work is finding the right length and amount of flare. Beware of going too short with this style. They also look great with heels.
3. Levi’s 590 Fuller Waist Boot Cut Jeans were made with O-shapes in mind. The cut is “fuller in the waist and narrow through the hip and thigh, these jeans fit comfortably around the waist to flatter you in all the right places without the excess bagginess around the legs.”
Boyfriend and Girlfriend Jeans
With a mid rise, slim straight leg, and details on the leg, the boyfriend style was made for apple shapes. Better yet, the girlfriend cut is even slimmer. These are a more casual style, especially when distressed.
4. H+M Plus Size Girlfriend Jeans are available in black or light distressed denim
What to Wear on Top
Balance out fitted jeans with a loose flowing top. Nothing too baggy though. The ideal top has a defined neckline, is fitted around the bust, and flows over the waist. Here are a few flattering tops for apple shapes to give you an idea of what to look for. Make any tanks or tees work year round by adding a cardigan, shrug, jean jacket, or blazer.
1. Carly Wrap Front Top 2. Floral Ruffle Empire Blouse
3. Pleated Georgette Tank Top 4. Floral Print Peasant Top
