Inverted Triangle Shape: Balancing Broad Shoulders
Gurls, dressing for your body shape is important if you want to look your best. And who doesn’t? lol. I did an entire post on finding out your shape so, if you’re unsure of your shape, check out How to Identify Your Body Type in 3 Simple Steps! Today, I’m sharing about the Inverted Triangle Shape and how to balance out Broad Shoulders. If you have an inverted triangle body shape, your goal is to balance your shoulders by adding volume to your lower body while softening your upper body.
What Is An Inverted Triangle Shape?
A reader described the inverted triangle shape as a heart. Both are accurate descriptions. An inverted triangle shape means your shoulders are broader than your hips, and your waist may be less defined. This body shape often gives an athletic look, with a naturally strong upper body and a more narrow lower body.
Key Characteristics of an Inverted Triangle Shape:
Broad shoulders – Your upper body is the widest part of your frame.
Narrow hips – Your hips are smaller in proportion to your shoulders.
Straight waistline – Your waist may not be very defined.
Athletic appearance – Your figure may have a naturally strong or sporty look.
Best Tops For an Inverted Triangle Shape:
- V-neck or scoop neck tops – Soften broad shoulders and create a vertical line.
- Tunics – Extend the torso and accentuate the lower body.
- Wrap tops –Soften broader shoulders.
- Peplum tops – Add volume at the hips for balance.
- Soft, draped fabrics – Avoid stiff or boxy styles that emphasize the shoulders.
- Avoid structured or padded shoulders – They make the upper body look wider.
This ruffle hem shirt is the kind of top that plays well with an inverted triangle figure. The slight flare at the bottom creates the illusion of curves, which helps balance out broader shoulders. The soft chiffon-like fabric drapes beautifully without clinging. Pair this with palazzo pants or a full skirt to enhance that lower half. Trust me, Gurls, this top is a wardrobe must-have for creating a more balanced look.
A peplum top is pure magic for an inverted triangle body type! The right neckline—a classic scoop—softens the shoulder line, while the flared peplum detail adds volume at the hips. This top helps define the waist and adds just the right amount of curves. Style it with trousers or culottes for an easy, balanced look. Bonus: The fabric isn’t stiff, so it won’t add bulk, just a flattering drape.
Best Dresses For an Inverted Triangle Shape:
- A-line dresses – Flatter by creating a more even silhouette.
- Fit-and-flare dresses – Cinch at the waist and add volume to the lower half.
- Empire waist dresses – Soften the upper body while highlighting the waist.
- Wrap dresses – Define the waist and add balance.
- Avoid halter necks and high necklines – They emphasize broad shoulders.
A wrap dress is always a winner, and this one is no exception! The V-neckline draws the eye down (a little trick to soften broad shoulders), while the flowy skirt creates a natural balanced silhouette. The wrap style cinches at the waist, giving the illusion of a more hourglass shape—without needing to be one, lol! I love the way this dress moves, and it’s perfect for dressing up or down.
This dress is doing all the right things for an inverted triangle figure. The pleats add volume exactly where you want it—around the hips—helping create that more balanced look. The floral print softens the top half, while the flowy skirt gives movement and keeps things light. If you love feminine styles, this one is a no-brainer! Pair it with a belt to define the waist even more.
Best Bottoms For an Inverted Triangle Shape::
- Wide-leg or bootcut pants – Balance the broader top half.
- A-line skirts – Add volume to the hips for a curvier look.
- Pleated or flared skirts – Create fullness on the lower half.
- High-waisted pants or skirts – Draw attention to the waist.
- Avoid skinny jeans unless paired with a voluminous top – They can make the upper body look even broader.
Now, let’s talk palazzo pants! Palazzo pants and jeans like the pair I’m wearing are perfect for balancing out an inverted triangle body type. They add structure to the lower half while keeping the top half sleek. The center seam is a nice touch, adding visual interest and helping to elongate the legs for a balanced look. Tuck in a fitted top or wear it with a structured jacket to complete the outfit.
If you’re looking for something easy and comfortable, these wide-leg trousers are the way to go. They drape effortlessly over the hips, giving that illusion of curves while keeping things lightweight. Pair these with a fitted cardigan or a top with subtle embellishments to draw attention downward. Plus, they come in multiple colors, so you can mix and match them with your wardrobe!
Best Accessories For an Inverted Triangle Shape::
- Belts at the waist – Create a more defined hourglass look.
- Statement shoes – Draw attention downward.
- A structured handbag carried at the hip – Adds balance to the lower body.
- Avoid chunky necklaces or big shoulder bags – These add more width to the upper body.
A belt is a simple but effective way to create a balanced silhouette! This suede pull-through belt cinches the waist without adding bulk, giving the perfect amount of definition. It works beautifully over jackets, cardigans, or even flowy dresses to give your outfits a structured, polished finish. I love how this belt subtly draws attention away from the shoulder line, making it a great styling trick for an inverted triangle figure.
Let’s talk shoes, Gurls! These ankle-strap sandals are perfect for anchoring an outfit. They add just a touch of height while keeping the focus on the lower half—exactly what an inverted triangle body type needs. The minimalist design means they’ll go with everything from trousers to midi skirts, and they won’t overwhelm the look. Plus, they come in a few basic colors, so you can find the perfect match for your wardrobe.
These kitten heels give a classic, timeless vibes! The slingback design elongates the leg (a little trick for looking taller and more balanced), and the pointed toe adds elegance without being too much. If you want a shoe that works with culottes, skirts, or wide-leg pants, this is the one. They’re comfortable, stylish, and a great addition to any wardrobe. Plus, you know I love a pop of color!
I always want to hear if my suggestions work for you.
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To GOD Goes The Glory!
Verse Of The Day
Galatians 5:16 (NIV)
16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
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Once again you have made my day! You have made it so plain as well as easy to dress my body shape. Thank you so very much.
To. God. Be. The. Glory.
Pamela Johnson
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Love the varsity cardigan😍
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I love the striped cardigan and wide leg pants.
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Super cute black and white wrap dress! I didn’t find the 😖 again!
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found it–also ordered the suede belt. Thinking it will look great with a black jumper I have.
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Found it! Stripes are my favorite and the Kohls price is perfect
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Found it! Those navy wide leg pants look so cute on you. I have yet to try the wide legs.
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Found it! I love reading your posts while drinking my morning coffee. I bought the Old Navy straight leg jeans & they arrive tomorrow. I am 5 ft. Tall and love their petite sizes. The length is perfect for short people like me. However, I order up one size when ordering petite and they fit perfect!
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I love the peplum tops. The blue one is gorgeous. Hope they restock- only xl left.
I bought the black and white wrap dress last year and it is really a winner. It flows beautifully and it travels perfectly. NO wrinkles.
Such a shame that someone stole your knives. What’s wrong with people? Could they really get joy out of them knowing they were taken from someone else? Oh well off the soap box.
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I almost gave up, but I found it!!!
I don’t have broad shoulders but I really like those tops.
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found it! That’s terrible about your housekeeper stealing your knives!
That blue dress looks so pretty on you!
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Thank you for all the great info!
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Found it! I have to say the emoji games is fun, however I find myself not paying attention to what you are blogging about for looking for the emoji🤦🏻♀️
We can’t have that. Lol!
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found it! it’s nice to see some spring dresses! too soon to wear them here. today is a snow and ice storm!
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So sorry about your knives! So sad you cannot trust anyone! Lauren Conrad dress is adorable. That dress would be so pretty for Easter Service!
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Found it! The navy and white striped cardigan and navy wide leg pants are perfect. Love that look!
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Absolutely adore the Lexi Wedge sandals! I have a similar pair that I’ve had repaired multiple times because I couldn’t find a replacement. I think this may be them!
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RAH
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Found it, love the belt!
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Hi Tania, technically I am an inverted triangle (my shoulders are visibly wider than my hips), but unlike most inverted triangles, I have a defined waist and some curve. I follow 98%+ of your tips. 🙂 But because I like to emphasize my strong shoulders, I enjoy halter tops and avoid peplum (they just broaden the hip too much for me). My favorite of what you mentioned – statement shoes! Ok, and I really love wearing an empire waist dress. Great series of posts!
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FOUND IT. I had a housekeeper once who took my husbands pain medication out of our medicine cabinet🤨
Yikes!
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Found it! Love the wrap dresses.
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Love the Draper James cardigan sweater.
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Yay found it! I’m new to the game.
I hope you have fun with the game.
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~Lisa~