Finding modest clothing that actually flatters your unique shape shouldn't feel like an impossible task, and if it feels that way for you, I completely get it. Too often, we're told to fit ourselves into these oversimplified categories that don't reflect the beautiful diversity of how God created us. The truth is, every woman deserves to feel confident, comfortable, and beautifully dressed in clothing that honors both our values and our bodies.
At The Main Street Exchange, we believe modest fashion should enhance – not hide – your natural beauty. Whether I am shopping for my everyday basics, Sunday worship outfits, or dresses for special occasions, understanding my body's natural lines and proportions has been the key to building a wardrobe that I actually love to wear.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR BODY'S NATURAL LINES
If you're like me, you've probably heard of the "apple and pear" body shape system. While well-intentioned, I've found that it often falls short of providing practical guidance for real women with diverse proportions. Believe me, working with multiple women of different body proportions at a clothing company, I have seen how body lines and proportions affect the appearance of an outfit! So instead, we're going to look at something more helpful than the typical "apple and pear" analogy: your body's natural vertical lines, bone structure, and how fabric naturally drapes on your frame.
For example, some women have naturally long, clean lines from head to toe. Others have more mixed proportions. Some (like me) have soft, rounded features, while others have sharper, more defined bone structure. None of these are better than another – they're simply different and call for slightly different styling approaches so we can look and feel our best.
What I love about this approach is that it's based on observation, not judgment. We're not trying to fix anything – we are simply learning how to work with the bodies we have to create outfits that feel effortless and flattering.
THE 5 BODY LINE TYPES: FIND YOUR BEST MODEST STYLE
1. Elongated & Structured Lines (Dramatic)
You might have this body line type if you're moderate to tall in height (typically 5'6" and above), your bone structure is sharp or defined (prominent shoulders, defined collarbone, angular jawline), and you have naturally long, straight vertical lines.
Delicate or overly fussy details can look out of place on you, so the key for your body type is to honor those beautiful vertical lines. Those with the dramatic body type look stunning in longer hemlines, clean silhouettes, and pieces with minimal fuss. The easiest way for me to remember is to think of sleek and sophisticated rather than overly ruffled or gathered.
Styles that flatter you:
- Long, column-style dresses that emphasize your height
- Midi and maxi skirts in straight or slightly A-line cuts
- Pencil skirts that create a streamlined silhouette
- Structured tops like button-downs and blazers
- Long cardigans and dusters that elongate your frame
- Minimal, clean lines with intentional details
Styles to approach carefully:
- Very short hemlines that cut your vertical line
- Excessive tiers, ruffles, or gathering
- Overly loose, unstructured pieces that hide your frame
- Very delicate, fussy details
Shown from left to right: 'Eleanor' Classic Herringbone Midi Dress, 'Corryn' Houndstooth Pencil Midi Skirt, 'Brooklyn' Stretch Denim Maxi Skirt in Vintage Wash, 'Jennifer' Houndstooth Stretch Knit Blazer, 'Spencer' Long Knit Midi Dress
Other Pieces to Check Out: 'Britta' Denim Pintuck Maxi Dress, 'Sara' Long Stretch Denim Skirt, 'Winslet' Waist Tie Maxi Skirt in Black, 'Wynter' Corduroy Button Down Shacket, 'Kerry' Cotton Denim Overshirt, 'Kendall' Button Down Denim Vest, 'Mariposa' Soft Rib Knit Dress, and more structured pieces.
2. Elongated & Relaxed Lines (Natural)
This may be your body line type if you are moderate to tall in height, your bone structure is blunt or strong (broader shoulders, stronger hands), you look best in relaxed, comfortable pieces, and you have a naturally athletic or straight build.
You shine best in clothing that feels easy and unstructured. Your natural beauty comes through in relaxed silhouettes, natural fabrics, and pieces that move with you. Overly tailored or delicate pieces can feel off, while comfortable and flowing pieces feel like home.
Styles that flatter you:
- Relaxed maxi dresses with natural drape
- A-line and slightly gathered skirts
- Overall dresses and jumpers
- Loose button-downs and oversized sweaters
- Natural, textured fabrics like linen and cotton
- Comfortable pieces with easy movement
Styles to approach carefully:
- Overly tailored or stiff pieces
- Very fitted, constrictive clothing
- Delicate, ornate details
- High-maintenance fabrics
Shown from left to right: 'Emilyn' 100% Linen Utility Dress, 'Ford' Denim Overall Midi Dress in Washed Black, 'Edith' Ditsy Floral A-Line Midi Skirt, 'Petra' Relaxed V-Neck Sweater, 'James' Oversize Button Down Denim Shacket
Other Pieces to Check Out: 'Shiloh' Floral Ribbed Tiered Midi Dress, 'Zara' Cotton Knit Everyday Dress, 'Addison' Tiered Maxi Skirt, 'Camille' Maxi Skirt, 'Cole' Relaxed Collared Button Down Top, 'Cianna' Bohemian Floral Midi Dress, Classic Crewneck Graphic Sweatshirt, and more comfortable, natural pieces.
3. Balanced & Moderate Lines (Classic)
You might have this body line type if you're moderate height (typically 5/4" to 5'7"), you have balanced and symmetrical proportions, you have a mix of straight and curved lines, and classic pieces seem to work for you.
What I love about this body line type is that it is the most versatile! If you have a classic body type, you can wear a wide range of styles, but you truly shine in classic, polished pieces with balanced proportions. Your beauty is found in timeless elegance, so lean into that!
Styles that flatter you:
- Classic midi dresses and skirts
- Pencil skirts in moderate lengths
- Tailored button-downs and blouses
- Simple cardigans and structured sweaters
- Knee-length denim skirts
- Balanced, symmetrical designs
Styles to approach carefully:
- Overly trendy or costume-like pieces
- Extreme proportions (too oversized or too fitted)
- Very dramatic or very casual extremes
Shown from left to right: 'Anna' Pencil Skirt, 'Martha' Collared Smocked Gingham Midi Dress, 'Sara' Stretch Denim Skirt in Medium Wash, 'Camden' Classic Cotton Sweater, 'Mariner' Striped Button Down Cardigan
Other Pieces to Check Out: 'Naomi' Chiffon Maxi Dress, 'Sasha' Knit Midi Skirt, 'Lily' Stretch Denim Knee Length Skirt, 'Waverly' Pointelle Sweater, 'Conor' Classic Striped Top, 'Morgan' Cotton Gauze Button Down Top, 'Solveig' A-Line Knit Midi Skirt, and more timeless classics.
4. Petite & Mixed Lines (Gamine)
This may be your body type if you are petite to moderate height (typically 5'5" and under), you have a mix of angular and soft features, your proportions are more compact, you look best in shorter hemlines or petite-friendly lengths, and overly long or overwhelming pieces can swallow your frame.
Your key to flattering modest clothing is proportion and scale. You look amazing when hemlines hit at the right place (knee-length or slightly below), and when pieces are tailored to your frame rather than overwhelming it. Don't be afraid of structure and defined waistlines!
Styles that flatter you:
- Knee-length dresses and skirts
- Fitted midi dresses (not too long!)
- Overall dresses with adjustable straps
- Tops that can be tucked in to define your waist
- Petite-specific lengths (33" skirts, 53" dresses)
- Pieces with collar details and structure
Styles to approach carefully:
- Very long maxi lengths that drag
- Oversized pieces without definition
- Heavy, overwhelming fabrics
- Excessive gathering or volume
Shown from left to right: 'Laura' Petite Length Denim Midi Skirt, 'Bailey' Denim Overall Dress, 'Kenzi' Ruffle Detail Knee Length Dress, 'Kacie' Collared Button Down Shirtdress, 'Ashton' Cotton Sweater Dress
Other Pieces to Check Out: 'Spencer' Ponte Knit Midi Dress, 'Bree' Tie Strap Checkered Knee Length Dress, 'Vanessa' Textured Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, 'Jayden' Drop Shoulder Sweater, 'Palmer' Long Sleeve Striped Tee, and more petite-friendly pieces.
5. Soft & Rounded Lines (Romantic)
My body line type is romantic, and you may have this body line type too if you have soft, rounded features and curves, your bone structure is delicate (small hands, rounded shoulders), you're petite to moderate height, and flowing/feminine details look naturally beautiful on you. Sharp, minimalist pieces can feel too stark.
I absolutely love having the romantic body type, because we were made for all the soft, romantic modest fashion! We get to embrace flowing fabrics, gentle gathers, tiered designs, and feminine details. Our beauty shines in pieces that honor our curves and softness rather than fighting against them.
Styles that flatter you:
- Tiered maxi and midi dresses
- Flowing floral prints
- Soft, gathered skirts
- Delicate details like embroidery and lace
- Rounded necklines
- Soft, drapey fabrics
Styles to approach carefully:
- Very sharp, angular pieces
- Overly minimalist designs
- Stiff, rigid fabrics
- Harsh geometric patterns
Shown from left to right: 'Elizabeth' Blush Lily Floral Tiered Maxi Dress, 'Valencia' Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress, 'Deidra' Tie Front Crochet Cardigan with the 'Paloma' Ditsy Floral Tiered Maxi Skirt, 'Deborah' Cotton Gauze Ruffle Trim Blouse, 'Rosie' Sweater Top Floral Pleated Midi Dress
Other Pieces to Check Out: 'Alexandra' Chiffon Maxi Dress, 'Poetry' Blue Floral Tiered Maxi Dress, 'Josephine' Textured Tiered Midi Dress, 'Cove' Drawstring Tiered Cotton Maxi Skirt, 'Tricia' Blush Floral Tiered Maxi Dress, 'Edna' Embroidered Floral Sweater, 'Jasmyn' Tiered Pinafore Dress, and more romantic pieces.
YOU CAN DRESS MODESTLY AND FEEL BEAUTIFUL
Here's a truth that I want every woman to hear: modest clothing is not about hiding your body, it's about honoring it. When we understand our body's natural lines and dress accordingly, something beautiful happens. I have begun embracing my romantic body line type, and ever since, I've been feeling more comfortable, confident, and assured in my personal style. Knowing my body line type has made shopping so much easier, as I know the pieces that will already make me feel like me.
Modest fashion is for every body type, every age, every season of life. Whether you're a new mom navigating nursing-friendly styles, a college student building your professional wardrobe, or a woman who simply wants to dress in alignment with her values – you deserve clothing that makes you feel beautiful and confident.
Some Tips to Get Started:
- Invest in quality basics. I've found that a well-fitting denim skirt, a classic midi dress, and versatile layering tops will serve you for years. At The Main Street Exchange, we care about having quality pieces that last.
- Don't be afraid to tailor. If you find a piece that you love but the length isn't quite right, a simple hem can make all the difference. (And remember, we offer some petite-length options!)
- Layer with intention. Cardigans, vests, and blazers aren't just for warmth – they're styling tools that can completely transform an outfit while adding coverage.
- Focus on fit, not just size. Use our detailed measurement charts for each item, and feel free to reach out to us about fit. We're here to help!
- Have fun! Modest fashion should bring you joy, not stress. Experiment with prints, textures, and styles within your body line type.
SHOP YOUR BODY TYPE AT THE MAIN STREET EXCHANGE
Ready to build a modest wardrobe that actually flatters your unique body? Browse our collections:
Modest Dresses – From casual maxis to polished midis
Modest Skirts – Denim, pencil, A-line, and maxi styles
Tops & Blouses – Layering essentials for every body type
Plus Size Collection – Beautiful modest fashion in extended sizes
Remember: you don't have to sacrifice style for modesty, and you certainly don't have to settle for frumpy. Every woman – regardless of her shape, size, or proportions – can dress modestly and feel absolutely beautiful.
