Dressing an apple-shaped body doesn’t have to feel like solving a fashion puzzle! If you carry weight around your middle and have slimmer legs, finding flattering outfits can be a game-changer for your confidence. I’ve spent years helping women embrace their curves, and these outfit ideas will showcase your best features while creating balanced, eye-catching looks.
1. Empire Waist Dresses
Ah, the magical empire waist! This high-waisted wonder floats away from your midsection while highlighting those gorgeous shoulders and legs you’ve been blessed with.
The fabric skims rather than clings, creating a silhouette that’s both comfortable and flattering. Trust me, this dress style will become your new best friend!
2. Wrap Dresses With Attitude
Whoever invented wrap dresses deserves a fashion medal! These clever frocks create a diagonal line across your midsection, drawing eyes to your neckline instead of your tummy.
Choose one with three-quarter sleeves to balance proportions perfectly. The adjustable waist tie lets you customize the fit exactly where you need it.
3. A-Line Skirt & Fitted Top Combo
Though counterintuitive, pairing a slightly fitted top with an A-line skirt creates magic for apple shapes! The top should skim (not squeeze) your curves while the skirt flares from your natural waist.
This dynamic duo creates the illusion of a defined waistline while showcasing those fabulous legs of yours. Genius, right?
4. Peplum Tops With Skinny Pants
Whoever claims peplum is outdated hasn’t seen it on an apple shape! These magical tops create the illusion of a defined waist while the flare camouflages any tummy concerns.
Pair with skinny pants or leggings to balance the silhouette. The contrast between the flared top and slim bottom creates a proportional look that’s absolutely stunning!
5. Bootcut Jeans & V-Neck Blouses
If balance is what we’re after (and it is!), bootcut jeans are your secret weapon. Their slight flare balances wider shoulders and midsection perfectly.
Pair with a V-neck blouse to draw eyes upward and create a lengthening effect. Add a statement necklace to complete this everyday ensemble that’s anything but ordinary!
6. Fit-and-Flare Dresses
Consider the fit-and-flare dress your fashion fairy godmother! Fitted through the bust then gracefully flaring from the waist, this style creates an hourglass illusion that’s pure magic.
Look for substantial fabrics that hold their shape rather than clingy ones. With this dress style, you’ll turn heads for all the right reasons!
7. Monochromatic Layered Looks
When in doubt, go monochrome! Wearing one color from head to toe creates an unbroken vertical line that instantly elongates your figure.
Layer different textures in the same color family for visual interest. Think silk shell under a cashmere cardigan with matching trousers. This sophisticated approach to dressing will have everyone asking for your style secrets!
8. Boyfriend Cardigans & Slim-Fit Tees
Forget those tight cardigans that button up to your neck! Longer, relaxed boyfriend styles create vertical lines while skimming your middle.
Layer over a slim-fitting tee and leave unbuttoned for a slimming column effect. The contrast between the fitted tee and relaxed cardigan creates a balanced look that’s both comfortable and flattering!
9. High-Waisted Wide-Leg Pants & Crop Tops
High-waisted wide-leg pants are the unsung heroes of apple-shaped wardrobes! They define your smallest point while the wide legs create beautiful balance.
Contrary to what you might think, a slightly cropped top that hits right at the waistband works wonders here. This unexpected combo creates the illusion of longer legs and a defined waist!
10. Off-Shoulder Tops & Straight Skirts
When life gives you beautiful shoulders, show them off! Off-shoulder tops draw attention upward and showcase one of an apple shape’s best features.
Pair with a straight skirt that hits just at or below the knee. This combination creates a balanced silhouette that’s both feminine and flattering. Hello, date night outfit!
11. Belted Shirt Dresses
Shirt dresses are your secret weapon! The vertical button placket creates a slimming line while the collar draws attention to your face.
Add a belt positioned slightly higher than your natural waist to create definition where you want it. Choose styles with some structure rather than clingy fabrics for the most flattering fit.
12. Ponte Knit Pants & Asymmetrical Tunics
Ponte knit pants are the comfort-meets-style miracle every apple shape needs! Their substantial fabric holds its shape while providing stretch where you need it.
Top with an asymmetrical tunic that creates diagonal lines across your midsection. These lines visually slim while the longer length provides coverage. Comfort never looked so chic!
13. Wrap Tops & Pencil Skirts
Much like their dress cousins, wrap tops create flattering diagonal lines across your midsection. The V-neckline draws eyes upward while the wrapped effect defines your silhouette.
Pair with a pencil skirt that sits at your natural waist. This power combo creates a professional look that’s both figure-flattering and boardroom-appropriate. Promotion outfit sorted!
14. Jumpsuits With Defined Waists
Whoever said apple shapes can’t wear jumpsuits hasn’t found the right one! Look for styles with defined waistlines positioned slightly higher than your natural waist.
Wide legs create balance while wrap-style tops or V-necks draw attention upward. Add a statement belt to further define your silhouette. One-piece dressing has never been so flattering!
15. Midi Skirts & Tucked Blouses
Midi skirts that flow from your natural waist create a feminine silhouette that’s perfect for apple shapes. The A-line or slight flare balances proportions beautifully.
Try a front-tuck with a blouse to create waist definition without clinging. Add a skinny belt positioned at your smallest point for extra definition. This combo works for both office and weekend brunches!
16. Layered Tops & Straight-Leg Pants
Layering isn’t just for winter! A lightweight open shirt over a fitted tank creates vertical lines that visually slim your silhouette.
Pair with straight-leg pants that skim your curves without clinging. The layers add interest while creating a streamlined look. This outfit formula works year-round with just a few seasonal adjustments!
17. Maxi Dresses With Empire Waists
Maxi dresses aren’t just for tall gals! Apple shapes shine in styles with empire waists and flowing skirts that create beautiful vertical lines.
Look for V-necks or scoop necklines to draw attention upward. Add a denim jacket for structure or wear alone on warm days. This one-and-done outfit solution takes you from beach to dinner with just a change of accessories!