PB Tips & Tricks
Which shorts match your body shape?
Subtle design elements determine the different shorts and can refer to the length of the legs, the height of the waist, the shape, the closure and the combination of details and fabrics - and that’s exactly where the different body types ask for.
V-line
The V-line body shape is characterized by wider shoulders than hips, a lowered waist and slender legs. To balance the shoulders and hips, add volume at hip height; think of pleated shorts, with a straight, loose-fit shape or with a fine geometric print - or in a striking color. Combine the shorts with a fitted top or T-shirt and wear over the shorts - don’t wear tucked into the shorts. Thanks to the slender legs of the V-line body type, the length may vary from short to longer. Tip! The V-line body type also makes a perfect match with playsuits.
H-line
Equal shoulders and hips with a lowered, subtly defined waist? There’s is a good chance you have the H-line body type. Straight, vertical silhouettes - from the shoulders down - flatter this body type, so straight-cut shorts are the best choice. The H-line body type often has slender legs, so the length may be short or longer. The H-line also hasn’t got a defined waist, so it’s more flattering to not emphasize it. Wear a straight T-shirt or top over the short, and don’t tuck it into the shorts. Go for shorts with a geometric print or with a striking color, just like the V-line body type.
A-line straight
Wider hips than shoulders, a defined waist and normal to heavy legs characterize the A-line Straight body type. The most flattering are straight-cut shorts with or without pleats. You have to emphasize the top of the body of an A-line Straight type, so it’s best to go for shorts in a solid medium to dark color. The shorts make the perfect match with a V-neck top or T-shirt with a (subtle) A-line silhouette. Avoid shorts with details at hip height, like love-worn elements. The A-line Straight body type often showcases heavier thighs and hips; flatter these with a shorts length above or under the heaviest part.
A-line round
Also the A-line Round body type showcases wider hips than shoulders, a nicely defined waist and slightly heavier and rounded legs. It’s flattering to emphasize the waist, so shorts with a high-rise design are a must. Straight-cut shorts or flared shorts are the best choice. The difference between the waist and hips can be quite big, so shorts in a stretchy fabric will fit best. The length? Choose a length above or under the heaviest part of the upper legs. Shorts in solid medium to dark colors - just like the A-line Straight body type - and with minimal details at the hips are the perfect match. Tip! Combine the shorts with a top or T-shirt with a round neck. Lucky to have a gorgeous waist? Emphasize it!
8-line
The 8-line has equal shoulders and hips, a slim waist in the middle, curvy hips and shapely legs. The figure of the 8-line forms a perfect match with dresses, making pants and shorts slightly more in the background. But fitted shorts and shorts with slightly flared legs are a good choice. The shorts may be designed in a solid color or with a curved - not too large - print. Shorts with fine pleats and in supple fabrics are also suitable. Combine with a fitted top or T-shirt - wear tucked into the shorts. The length of the shorts can be chosen as desired. PS totally on-trend: biker shorts. With a beautiful snug fit, these are the perfect shorts for the 8-line. Too sporty? Wear with a fitted top and a tailored blazer.
O-line
Generally, the O-line body type has wider hips than shoulders, no defined waist, slightly flatter buttocks and slender legs that perfectly match shorts. The O-line body type often has a fuller belly area that can be flattered with shorts that are designed with an elasticated waistband or drawstring closure in soft, supple fabrics. Also skorts make a perfect match with the O-line body type. Pair with a loose-fit top or T-shirt and wear over the shorts. The advice is to wear shorts in a solid color. Thanks to the beautiful slender legs of the O-line body type, the length can be chosen as desired.
General tips:
Optically lengthen your legs? Go for high-rise shorts and short legs.
Optically lengthen your upper body? Go for low-rise shorts with longer legs.
Flatter heavier upper legs? Choose shorts with longer legs that hit above the knee, like Bermuda shorts.
Flatter fuller buttocks? Go for loose-fit shorts with slightly longer legs. Shorts in a dark, solid color work extra flattering.
Make flat buttocks look fuller? Choose shorts with patch pockets at the back and go for a print.
Do you want to know how to style shorts? Get inspired by our shop the looks with shorts.
PB Blog
Which items are suitable for your body type?
Discover your body type and choose items that suit your body shape
Blog by:
Joyce
Joyce knows everything about different body types. She excels at providing smart styling tips and tricks to highlight your best features. Additionally, she is the go-to person for occasion outfits with that little extra something.
