Apple shape: everything you need to know

All about you

You've got great legs, but struggle with how to flatter your tummy. You're reasonably straight through the hips, and your shoulders will be more or less the same width as your hips when viewed from the back. You probably have slightly sloped/rounded shoulders, rather than a firm straight line across them. If you have very straight shoulders, double check whether you might be a column; remember, this is about your body shape, not your size, and many columns think they are apples and wonder why the styles of clothing recommended don't work for them. Your bottom is probably fairly small and flat.

Your biggest strength is your amazing legs. Regardless of your size, your legs will always look good, and emphasising them will give you no end of confidence. The tummy tends to be the trickier bit. Apples generally find that any weight gained goes straight on their tummies, and often prefer clothes with a little bit more movement and flow over their midsection.

Do wear

Styles that are more forgiving over your tummy. This doesn't have to mean only loose tops - ruching and pleating over your tummy can do wonders to create a waist.
Styles that highlight your great legs - slim trousers and leggings under longline looser tops flatter without adding bulk.
Culottes worn with a looser boxy top
If you have a larger bust then v neck or lower scoop styles can flatter and streamline your bust.
Tops which fit over your shoulders and bust then flare or drape.
An open cardigan, wrap or jacket will give a slimming, waist enhancing effect.

Avoid

Anything too obviously clingy over your tummy - it's only going to make you self conscious
Drop waists will enlarge rather than slim your tummy area.
One solid colour top to toe - a dark coloured jacket or wrap over a lighter top and trousers (or vice versa) creates a long and lean silhouette.
High necklines are almost always unflattering - break them up with a scarf or necklace if you need them for warmth!