Outfit Ideas

Athletic Build Outfit Ideas: How to Add Curves in 2026

Mark Looqs

Mark Looqs

— 3 min read

If you have an athletic build—strong shoulders, a straight torso, and minimal waist definition—you're working with a lean, powerful silhouette that's incredibly versatile. The key to athletic build outfit ideas is creating the illusion of curves through strategic styling choices while celebrating your fit physique.

As fitness icon Simone Biles says: "Practice creates confidence. Confidence empowers you." When it comes to fashion, understanding how to dress your athletic build creates that same confidence.

Understanding Your Athletic Build

The athletic body shape (also called rectangle) is characterized by:

  • Similar bust, waist, and hip measurements
  • Strong, defined shoulders
  • Minimal waist definition
  • Lean, toned appearance
  • Straight silhouette from shoulders to hips

1. Fit-and-Flare Dresses: Your Curve-Creating Secret

According to Stitch Fix style experts, fit-and-flare silhouettes are the ultimate choice for athletic builds. The fitted bodice creates waist definition while the flared skirt adds volume at the hips, creating an instant hourglass illusion.

  • Look for defined waistlines with seaming or belts
  • Choose A-line skirts that add hip volume
  • Opt for structured fabrics that hold shape
  • Try wrap dresses for natural waist cinching

2. Peplum Tops for Instant Curves

Peplum styles are transformative for athletic builds. The fitted waist with a flared ruffle creates the appearance of hips and a defined waistline—two things athletic shapes often want to enhance.

  • Pair peplum tops with slim pants or pencil skirts
  • Choose peplum dresses for a complete curve-creating look
  • Look for structured peplums that stand away from the body

3. Waist-Defining Belts

Belts are your best friend. According to wardrobe styling guides, strategic belt placement creates waist definition where there's minimal natural curve:

  • Wide statement belts over dresses and tunics
  • Belted blazers and coats for structured waist definition
  • Paper-bag waistlines with built-in tie belts
  • Corset belts for dramatic waist cinching

4. Volume Balance Strategy

Creating curves on an athletic build is all about strategic volume placement:

  • Add volume at bust: ruffles, puff sleeves, gathered details
  • Add volume at hips: flared skirts, wide-leg pants, layered bottoms
  • Keep the waist fitted: tucked tops, belts, structured seaming
  • Balance rule: If top is voluminous, bottom should be slimmer (and vice versa)

5. Soft Sculpt Activewear (2026 Trend)

According to Fashion Gone Rogue, 2026's "soft sculpt" activewear trend is perfect for athletic builds. These pieces use contouring seams and ribbed textures to add subtle curves without compression.

6. High-Waisted Everything

High-waisted bottoms are essential for athletic builds. They create the illusion of a defined waist and elongate your legs:

  • High-waisted wide-leg pants add hip volume
  • High-waisted flare jeans create hourglass proportions
  • High-waisted A-line skirts balance straight torsos
  • Tuck fitted tops in to emphasize the waist

7. Bias-Cut and Fluid Fabrics

Bias-cut dresses and skirts drape beautifully over athletic builds, creating soft curves where straight lines exist. Look for:

  • Satin midi skirts that skim the body
  • Silk slip dresses with subtle shaping
  • Fluid fabrics that move with your body
  • Soft jersey knits that hint at curves

8. Statement Sleeves

While athletic builds often have strong shoulders, statement sleeves can actually work beautifully by adding feminine volume:

  • Puff sleeves add romantic softness
  • Flutter sleeves create movement
  • Balloon sleeves draw attention upward
  • Pair with fitted bottoms to balance

Best Necklines for Athletic Builds

According to style experts, these necklines work wonderfully for athletic builds:

  • V-necks and plunging necklines elongate the torso
  • Sweetheart necklines add bust definition
  • Scoop necks create softness
  • Cowl necks add volume at the bust

FAQ: Athletic Build Styling

Should athletic builds avoid fitted clothing?

Not at all! Fitted clothing looks fantastic on athletic builds—your toned physique is an asset. The key is adding strategic details (belts, seaming, layering) to create curve illusion.

What about bodycon dresses?

Bodycon can work beautifully! Look for styles with ruching at the waist, color blocking, or strategic seaming that creates curve illusion. Layer with a structured blazer for added dimension.

How do I add hip curves?

Flared skirts, wide-leg pants, peplum details, and pockets at the hips all add volume. Pair these with fitted tops tucked in to emphasize the contrast.

Discover Your Perfect Athletic Build Outfits with LOOQS

Finding curve-creating outfits for your athletic build just got easier. LOOQS is your AI-powered fashion discovery app that curates real blogger outfits specifically matched to your body type. See how other fit women style their looks—real inspiration from real people with similar builds.

With smart body type filtering and thousands of curated looks, LOOQS helps you discover outfits that celebrate your strong, athletic physique. Try LOOQS today and find your most confident, stylish self.

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