Outfits That Actually Work for Apple-Shaped Bodies

Photo Credit:Sophie Mijnlieff

Styling an apple-shaped body can feel like a fashion guessing game. One dress hugs your belly too tight, another makes you look like you're swimming in fabric. Pants either dig into your waist or slide right down. And don't even get us started on button-downs that gape at the chest but hang shapeless everywhere else.

If any of that sounds familiar, you're not alone.

Most apple-shaped women have heard what not to wear, but very few have been shown how to actually put an outfit together that works with their body—not against it. At Autum Love, we’ve helped thousands of women feel confident getting dressed by creating guides that do the styling work for you.

That’s why we created a digital outfit guide with 60 looks made specifically for apple-shaped bodies. Outfits that work for real life: work, weekends, date nights, casual days, travel days—and everything in between.

You don’t need the exact pieces. Just similar shapes, colors, or silhouettes. These are flexible looks meant to make getting dressed easier, not harder.

But before we dive into the looks, let’s make sure you’re in the right place:

• Not sure if you're apple-shaped? Take the Body Shape Quiz

• Need more context? Browse our Body Shape Hub to explore every shape.

• Wondering if you can have a belly or larger bust and still be an apple? (Short answer: yes.) Keep reading.

What Counts as an Apple-Shaped Body?

Apple-shaped doesn’t mean you’re shaped like a fruit. It just means your midsection tends to be the widest part of your body. Many apple shapes carry weight through the belly or upper torso, and often have great legs, a fuller bust, or strong shoulders.

Apple-Shaped Bodies Often Have:

• Broader shoulders or bust
  A fuller midsection with less waist definition

• Slimmer hips or legs
  A tendency to carry weight above the hips

• A straight or undefined waistline

If you’ve ever felt like jeans never fit your waist, or dresses either drown your shape or cling to the wrong places, you might be apple-shaped.

Can You Have a Belly and Still Be Apple-Shaped?

Yes. In fact, a rounder midsection is the most common marker of an apple figure. You can have:

• A visible belly or "pooch"

• A larger bust and slim hips

• Narrow hips but full arms and tummy

You might even be apple-shaped without realizing it—especially if you used to be a different shape and your body changed due to hormones, age, or life.

Body shapes aren’t about size. They’re about proportions. And once you understand how clothes sit on your proportions, everything gets easier.

If you want extra outfit support for concerns like belly coverage, undefined waist, fuller bust, or short torso, check out The Body Edit Guide or our tips on what to wear with a muffin top.

So, What Is an Outfit Guide?

Think of it as your digital personal stylist. Our outfit guides are downloadable PDFs packed with looks styled for your body shape.

Here’s what you get inside:

1. 60 fully styled outfits with seasonal and dress code labels

2. Styling notes that explain why each look works

3. Solutions for common problem areas (arms, belly, bust)

4. Flexibility to shop your closet or buy similar pieces online

How It Works:

Step 1: Download It Instantly
Delivered to your inbox—no waiting, no shipping.

Step 2: Flip Through 60 Looks
Each labeled with the season, dress code, and body challenge it solves.

Step 3: Shop Your Closet First
Use what you already own. Swap in similar items.

Step 4: Get Dressed With Less Stress
Less guessing, more getting out the door feeling good.

Outfit Ideas for Apple-Shaped Bodies (That Actually Work)

These five outfits come straight from the Apple Body Shape Style Guide. Each one is designed to balance your proportions, highlight your best features, and take the stress out of getting dressed.

1. V-Neck Tank + Denim Button Skirt + White Sneakers

Why it works: The v-neck draws the eye up and opens the neckline. The button-front denim skirt defines your waist without clinging to your tummy, and the sneakers keep it fresh and comfortable.

Try this if…

• You want to define your waist without a tight waistband

• You’re tired of jeans that dig in

• You want a summer look that’s cool but flattering

Swap It With:

• A tie-waist tank or sleeveless blouse- $29.99 Tie Waist Crew Neck

• A-line midi skirt - $35.98 A Line Pleated Long Skirt

• Leather slides or wedge espadrilles- $28 Leather Flat Sandals

2. Pink Knit Top + Cargo Jeans + Denim Jacket + Flats

Why it works: The knit top skims without clinging, and the cargo jeans balance the silhouette by adding subtle volume to the bottom. A cropped denim jacket defines your frame while keeping your outfit structured.

Try this if…

• You feel like all your tops make your middle look boxy

• You want a casual look with a little polish

Swap It With:

• A cotton button-down or utility blouse- $19.99 Long Sleeve Crewneck

• Straight-leg jeans with patch pockets- $38 cropped straight leg jeans

• Loafers or platform sneakers - $36 memory foam loafers

3. Oversized Sweatshirt + Black Button Mini Skirt + Tall Boots

Why it works: The oversized sweatshirt offers volume and ease on top, while the skirt creates contrast and structure. The tall boots add a vertical line and show off your legs (which many apple shapes love).

Try this if…

• You want to wear skirts but hate tucking

• You need an outfit that hides the belly without hiding you

Swap It With:

• A cropped sweatshirt or sweater- $25 Shrug Sweater

• Knee-length A-line skirt- $38 Denim Skirt

• Block-heel booties- $49 Square Pointed Toe

4. White Tee + Beige Wide-Leg Pants + Denim Jacket + Sandals

Why it works: The tee and pants combo elongates and smooths, while the denim jacket brings structure. The wide-leg pants sit comfortably at the natural waist, giving you shape without squeeze.

Try this if…

• You want something elevated but comfortable

• You’re sick of waistbands cutting into your middle

Swap It With:

• A soft v-neck blouse or knit tee- $29 Sweater Vest

• High-rise palazzo pants- $36 Knit Palazzo Pants

• Slide sandals or low mules- $32 Leather Sandals

5. Striped Turtleneck Sweater + Utility Jeans + Black Heels

Why it works: The horizontal stripe balances broader shoulders and adds visual interest. The loose-fit utility jeans break up the midsection, while the heels add length and polish.

Try this if…

• You want to wear sweaters but avoid looking bulky

• You need a casual work outfit that still feels put together

Swap It With:

• A ribbed mock neck or boatneck top- $36 Oversized Batwing Sweater

• Straight-leg black trousers- $34 High waist Trousers

• Pointed flats or ankle boots - $38 Washable flats

Want the Full Guide?

If these looks made getting dressed sound a little less stressful, just wait until you see the rest.

The Apple Body Shape Style Guide includes:

• 60 fully styled outfit ideas labeled by season + dress code

• Styling notes for arms, tummy, bust, and waist

• Realistic suggestions that work with what you already own

 Get the Apple Outfit Guide here