Why body type matters when choosing scrubs

Looking good at work isn’t just about style-it’s about confidence, comfort, and professionalism. No two bodies are the same, and choosing the right scrub fit for your body type can make a big difference in how you feel throughout your shift.

Whether you're bending, lifting, assisting patients, or handling animals, scrubs should support your movements and complement your frame. That’s why Happythreads offers inclusive, high-performance scrubs for every shape and size-designed for all healthcare workers.

With inclusive sizing more in demand than ever in 2025, choosing the right fit is key to both comfort and confidence.

Scrubs for different body shapes: Your fit guide

Inclusive options at Happythreads

At Happythreads, we are committed to inclusivity. Our range of scrubs caters to all body types, offering sizes from XXS up to 5XL. We provide stretch fabrics for added comfort, unisex designs, and three leg lengths to ensure a perfect fit for everyone. 

Understanding your body shape helps you choose scrubs that balance proportions, highlight your best features, and create a sleek, confident look. Here’s how to dress each shape with practical, flattering scrubs.

Types of body shapes

🍎 Apple body shape

Description: Apple bodies tend to carry weight around the stomach, with broad shoulders, a bigger bust, a wide tummy, proportionate hips, and slimmer legs and arms.

How to Dress: The perfect healthcare scrubs for an apple body shape should draw attention away from the middle section while highlighting the bust and legs. V-neck scrub tops with lower and wider necklines, such as scoop or square necks, are ideal. Three-fourth length sleeves or flared sleeves can balance the upper body. Pair these tops with straight-leg scrub trousers that provide a sleek look. For outerwear, opt for single-button jackets that fasten under the bust and empire line coats that hang straight from the shoulders.

Recommended collections: Cherokee,  Koi Next Gen

🍐 Pear body shape

Description: Pear-shaped bodies have slender shoulders and a bust that's visibly narrower than the hips and thighs.

How to Dress: To balance this shape, choose healthcare scrubs that draw attention to the upper body and minimise the lower body. Tops with boat necks, wider collars, and lapels work well, as do longer tunics that cover the hips and bottom. Wide leg scrub trousers in darker shades help streamline the lower body. Jackets with multiple pockets, breast pockets, and back yokes create a balanced look. Coats with shoulder-enhancing details and fitted shapes, such as belted coats, are perfect for this body type.

Recommended collections: Koi Cureology, Koi Next Gen

⌛️ Hourglass Nurse Body Shape

Description: Hourglass bodies have a large bust, defined waist, and well-proportioned hips that are identical in width to the bust.

How to Dress: The perfect scrubs for an hourglass figure should highlight the waist while balancing the bust and hips. Tops with lower and wider necklines, such as scoop, square, or sweetheart necks, are flattering. Three-fourth sleeves or wrist-length sleeves enhance the arms. Waist-length lab coats and V-neck tops that fit well at the waist are ideal. Single-breasted jackets with wide lapels and concealed front openings enhance the waist, while single-breasted coats provide a sleek silhouette.

Recommended collections: Koi Cureology, Koi Solis

🔻Inverted Triangle Nurse Body Shape

Description: Inverted Triangle shapes have wider shoulders and bust than hips.

How to Dress: To create balance, choose scrubs that add volume to the lower body while keeping the upper body simple. V-neck or mock wrap tops with wider collars and lapels draw attention downward. Three-fourth sleeves without details help balance the arms. For the lower body, wide leg scrub trousers with gathering and pleats add volume to the hips. Jackets with angular lines, hip pockets, and double vents create a balanced look. Coats with straight or flared lines and fuller hemlines complete the outfit.

Recommended collections: Cherokee, Dickies

▬ Rectangle Nurse Body Shape

Description: Rectangle bodies have no defined waist, with hips similar in width to the shoulders.

How to Dress: The goal is to create curves and define the waist. Tops with lower, wider necklines like jewel or scoop necklines are flattering. Loose fit or flared sleeves add volume to the arms. Choose tops with pleats and defined waistlines to create curves. Structured jackets with round lapels and empire line coats that emphasise the waist are ideal. Coats with straight lines and uncluttered designs provide a polished look.

Recommended collections: Koi Lite, Koi Basics

Inclusive fit for all shapes and sizes

At Happythreads, we believe that scrubs should empower you to feel confident, no matter your shape or role. That’s why our range includes:

• Sizes from XXS–5XL
• Three leg lengths in trousers
• Stretchy, breathable fabrics for ease of movement
• Unisex styles and coordinated scrub sets

Explore our inclusive scrubs collection with flattering fits, moisture-wicking materials, and body-positive cuts.

General tips for flattering your shape in scrubs

Regardless of your body type, here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Fit: Ensure that your scrubs fit well without being too tight or too loose.
• Comfort: Choose fabrics that are comfortable, breathable, and easy to move in.
• Colours: Use colours to your advantage. Darker shades can create a slimming effect, while lighter shades can highlight your best features.
• Details: Pay attention to details like pockets, waistbands, and sleeve lengths that can enhance your overall look.

Knowing how to dress according to your body shape can significantly impact your comfort and confidence at work. Follow these guidelines to choose uniforms that flatter your figure and enhance your professional appearance. 

FAQs: Dressing for your body type in scrubs

What scrubs are best for apple-shaped bodies?

V-neck and empire waist scrub tops paired with straight-leg trousers help balance an apple shape.

Are there scrubs for plus-size healthcare workers?

Yes! At Happythreads, we offer sizes XXS to 5XL and stretchy fabrics designed for comfort and flattering fit.

Do unisex scrubs work for all body types?

Unisex scrub sets are a great option for comfort and flexibility, especially when paired with the right leg length and top cut.

Which fabrics are best for flattering your body shape?

Breathable and stretchy materials like polyester blends or moisture-wicking fabrics allow for movement and better silhouette. We recommend our Koi Cureology and Koi Next Gen scrubs.

Can colours make a difference in how scrubs fit?

Absolutely - darker colours help create a slimming effect, while strategically placed colour blocks can shape your look.

Feel confident, look great, work better

Dressing for your body type can boost your comfort and confidence on the job. Whether you're in nursing, veterinary care, dentistry, or any healthcare field, Happythreads has scrubs tailored to support your body and your shift.

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