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Hourglass Body Shape: 61 Killer Tips To Dressing Better

Hourglass body shape

Looking to enhance your hourglass body shape? You’ve come to the right place! I’ll teach you everything you need to know to style your hourglass body shape.

From what clothes to wear, to how to look good. I’ll help you transform your body and make you look amazing. So what are you waiting for? Start reading now!

Hourglass Body Shape Defined

An hourglass body shape is one where the bust, waist and hips are about the same width. The lower half of the body is slightly more defined than the upper half, but not excessively so. 

This can be due to wide hips or a large chest, but either way there will be no middle section that hangs over your waist area.

An hourglass shaped woman may be slightly pear or inverted triangle in her upper half, but consistency is key here.

Hourglass Body Shape Examples  

Hourglass-shaped celebrities include Sofia Vergara, Kim Kardashian, Jenifer Lopez, Beyonce, Kate Winslett, Tyra Banks, Scarlett Johansson, and Marilyn Monroe (before she died.)

How To Get A Booty Like Jennifer Lopez | InStyle

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How Do You Dress An Hourglass Body Shape

These are the following tips to dress an hourglass body shape:

Boxy Cuts

Avoid boxy cuts with an hourglass body shape. Steer clear of puffy sleeves, wide shawl collars, ruffles , and necklines that end at the natural waistline.

These features will widen your shoulders or make your bust appear larger in comparison to your hips.

Tops

All tops are made for this silhouette, but you’ll want to pay close attention to key areas such as necklines, shoulder embellishments , bustline, waistline and hemlines.

An easy way to balance your figure is with tops that draw attention away from the small of your waist (i.e., tops with shoulder details like epaulets or wide necklines like boat necks).

V-necklines are particularly flattering on this body shape while boat necks can be more difficult to pull off.

Jackets

Jackets should fit closely through the torso and flare slightly at the waist, ending just below the hips  so that they skim your curves and highlight your hourglass figure.

Avoid boxy cuts and blazers that flare out at the hips, as they can make you look top-heavy and disrupt the smooth curve of your silhouette.

If you wear a blazer, try to find one with complimentary elements such as padded shoulders or double-breasted lapels; this will keep your hourglass figure looking balanced.

Trousers

Your trousers should be slim-fitted through the thighs and tapered at the ankles , ending just above the ground to elongate your silhouette .

Avoid wide leg cuts, which are unflattering on this body shape.

Slim-fitting slacks or cigarette pants can be worn with high heels or flats, but if you prefer more structure around the waist and hips, choose high-waisted pants or a pencil skirt.

Skirts

Your skirts should flare slightly at the hemline, flowing away from your body and elongating your legs.

Skirts with embellishments such as pleats, pockets or belts that draw attention near your natural waist will also draw the eye to your curves and balance out your silhouette.

If you prefer a more structured look, go for a pencil skirt.

Dresses

An A-line dress is always flattering on this body shape: it skims over your torso and hips and flares out at the knees, creating an hourglass silhouette without drawing attention to your waist .

The hemline of the dress should hit at or slightly below the knee to elongate your legs.

If you prefer more structure around the bust and hips, look for dresses with embellishments such as pleats or pockets that will draw attention to these areas.

Wraps/Cardigans

Wraps and cardigan-style sweaters are an excellent choice for this body shape, ending either at the waist or slightly below to create a structured look that balances out your figure .

You should avoid shawl-style outerwear that hangs away from the body, since it will make you appear top heavy.

Instead, choose structured pieces with slight flare at the hemline , such as epaulet, cape or shoulder-tie styles.

Hourglass body shape
Hourglass Body Shape: 61 Killer Tips To Dressing Better 6

What Are The Best Dresses For An Hourglass Body Shape

A-Line Dress

This dress hugs your figure in all the right places, while blurring out bulges in others.

The A-line silhouette is an extremely flattering dress shape for most body types, but it works particularly well on hourglass figures because of its ability to cinch at the natural waist.

Mermaid Dress

This dress is fitted at the top, flows out on the bottom and accentuates your curves.

The mermaid silhouette creates an extremely sexy hourglass shape by emphasizing the curve of your hips while giving you a small waistline.

Halter Dress

The halter dress gives you a great neckline and a loose body which will accommodate any tummy.

This dress is great for hourglass women because it hugs your waist and camouflages any tummy pooch that may be there.

Fit and Flare Dress

The cut of this dress hugs your hips and waist.

This dress is another great choice for hourglass women, because it closely follows the curves of your hips and waist whilst giving you a tailored look.

Lace Dress

As long as you don’t wear a dress that is too tight, the lace overlay dresses are very flattering for hourglass figures.  

This is because they skim all your curves, without clinging to them.

If you are looking for an extremely sexy look, this might be slightly more difficult because of the lack of stretch in lace.

Wrap Dress

This dress is great for the hourglass figure because it hugs your waist while camouflaging any bulges.  

At the same time, this dress gives your bust a great shape without any underwire or padding.

Ball Gown Dress

This is one of the most flattering dresses for an hourglass figure, because it covers the tummy and highlights your waist.

This dress is perfect for hourglass women because of its ability to accentuate all your curves while camouflaging any bulges you don’t want seen.

Maxi Dress

This is another great choice for the hourglass figure, because it hides any tummy bulges and hangs away from your hips.

V-Neckline Dress

This type of neckline is extremely flattering for hourglass figures because it draws attention to your bust and waist.

Sheath Dress

This dress follows all your natural curves and camouflages any bulges you may have.

This type of silhouette is the absolute best for hourglass figures because it skims over all your curves without clinging to them.

Modest Dress

Modest dresses are extremely flattering for hourglass figures, because it gives you the same shape as a sheath dress, but with more coverage.

This type of silhouette is perfect for women seeking modesty in their clothing since it skims over all your curves without clinging to them.

Bodycon Dress:

This dress hugs your body and shows of all your curves.

This type of dress hugs every inch of your body, which creates the perfect hourglass silhouette.

It is important to note that this style isn’t for everyone though because it clings to fat in some areas while accentuating other unappealing problem areas.

Hourglass body shape
Hourglass Body Shape: 61 Killer Tips To Dressing Better 7

Jeans For Hourglass Body Shape

It is important to remember that no matter what shape you are, there is a pair of jeans out there for you.

And the following list of the best jeans for hourglass body shape jeans does not have any bias toward other body types.

Boot Cut Jeans

Boot cut jeans are universally flattering to all body shapes. Bootcut jeans help create the illusion of a smaller waist and fuller thighs; they can even make thin girls look curvier.

However, if you have an hourglass figure, do not be afraid to show off your curves with boot cut jeans that flare out at the ankle.

Make sure to have a nice pair of heels to complete your sexy look.

Boyfriend Jeans

Boyfriend jeans are great for an hourglass figure because they add instant volume and length while also providing a more relaxed fit that flatters your figure.

Boyfriend jeans work best on curvier girls, but everyone should own at least one pair.

Slim Boot Cut Jeans

Whether you are thin or curvy, slim bootcut jeans are a perfect choice for an hourglass figure.

Slim boot cut jeans will give you the same look as a straight-leg jean while also adding some curve to your body, making it seem wider at the hips while slimmer throughout the leg length.

High-Waisted Wide Leg Jeans

For women with an hourglass shape, high waisted jeans are also a great choice.

Most high-waisted jeans have wide legs, which will allow you to show off your sexy curves and ensure that all eyes are on you.

Sculpting Leg Jeans

Sculpting jeans are designed to make your legs appear leaner and longer.

If you are looking for a pair of jeans that will help accentuate your curves while also making it look like your thighs are slimmer, choose sculpting jeans.

Skinny Jeans:

Skinny jeans are always in style, but they work best on women with an hourglass figure.

Skinny jeans are flattering on almost any body type, but they work especially well for women with an hourglass shape.

ecause they make it seem like you have even curvier hips, while still maintaining a slender waist.

Straight Leg Jeans

If you are looking for a pair of jeans that will show off your curves while still making it appear as though you have slender thighs, straight leg jeans are the perfect option.

They are slimming and work especially well on curvier women with an hourglass figure.

Ab Solution Jeggings

If you’re looking for a pair of pants that will allow you to rock the casual-chic look, jeggings are it.

Jeans can be bulky and uncomfortable at times, but jeggings provide all of the style and look of a pair of jeans—without some of the hassle.

If you have an hourglass figure, it is best to wear jeggings with a longer T-shirt or fitted top.

Capri Jeans

Capri jeans are a great choice for women with an hourglass figure because they hug the body in all of the right places.

Capris work best on those with shapely legs and a small waist, as they will help to create that classic hourglass silhouette.

Best Top For Hourglass Body Shape

The hourglass figure is a very sexy and shapely body type.

The only problem is that finding the right clothes to wear can be hard, but I’ve found some of the best tops for your hourglass body shape so you can easily dress up your curves and look great in everything from jeans to skirts.

Sweetheart Top:

A sweetheart top is a great option for your hourglass figure because it creates the illusion of a more rounded waist.

You can do this by choosing a tee or shirt that features a sweetheart neckline, which will be very flattering.

Sweetheart necks usually come in the form of scoop, slight v-neck or cowl neck.

A sweetheart top can be casual or more dressy depending on your choice of pants or skirt.

Maternity Top

Another great option for hourglass bodies are maternity tops.

If you are pregnant, you might want to make sure you choose maternity tops that are fitted on the lower half but have some extra space around your bust.

This will help balance out your silhouette by creating a rounder look at the top of your body.

V Neckline

Another great option is a v-neckline top . This will help to create the illusion of a smaller waist because the v shape draws attention to your upper body.

You can also choose tops that have this style at the back, which will give you even more options.

A wrap top with a V neckline is another great choice for an hourglass because the wrap style helps to create a smaller waist.

Empire Top

An empire top is great for hourglass shapes too because it draws attention up towards the bust, creating the illusion that your waist is longer.

Slit Front

Slit fronts are also a great style for hourglass bodies because they create the illusion of a longer waist and help to balance out women with large busts.

Cowl Neck Top

A top with a cowl neckline is a great choice for hourglass bodies because it creates the illusion of a smaller waist and also helps to balance out your bust. It can be paired with pants or skirts of any length, so you have lots of stylish options.

Off The Shoulder

For those that want to show just a little bit of skin yet not go completely bare, one of the best tops for hourglass figures is an off the shoulder top . It will create the illusion of a curvier bust, while also creating balance.

Cami Crop Top

This a top option that is very similar to the corset top because it does an amazing job at camouflaging problem areas on your midsection while also creating a more curvier silhouette.

The best part about this option is that you can wear it under any blouse or shirt to create instant style!

Wrap Top

Another great top option is a wrap top . It can be worn in many different ways, which means that you have lots of style options as an hourglass body shape.

Tank Top

A simple tank top is a great option for hourglass figures because it will show off your beautiful bust and have you feeling comfortable while looking stylish!

With so many different styles to choose from, including racer back straps that work well with a slightly larger bust or a strapless version that works well with a smaller bust, there is definitely an option that will work well for your hourglass body shape.

Split-Neck Top

Split neck tops are another great choice for women with an hourglass figure because they create the illusion of a curvier bust while also helping to balance out your hips and waist by showing off one or both shoulders.

T-Shirt

A simple t-shirt is another great staple for your wardrobe, especially if you are an hourglass body shape because it will show off your waist while also keeping you comfortable at the same time. Choose a fitted style that is made of stretchy material, so it will hug in all the right places.

Ruffled Top

A ruffled top is a great option for hourglass figures because it will show off your beautiful bust while also concealing any trouble spots. Ruffles are very flattering to all body types, so you can easily build an entire wardrobe around this style of top.

Peplum Top

A peplum top is another wonderful option for women with an hourglass figure because it will help to create a curvier silhouette by drawing attention down towards your hips and waist.

Pair a peplum top with pencil skirts or pants for a classy look that is both stylish and flattering.

Sweater

A sweater is another wonderful choice for an hourglass shape , especially one that is loose fitting but not too baggy. Look for sweaters that are fitted but not tight, so you will still have lots of comfort when you step out in style with an hourglass body shape.

Long Sleeve Top

Long sleeve tops are another great option for the women with an hourglass figure because they can be dressed up or down depending on the situation.

They provide a great option for a base layer when you want to add a little extra style in the colder months.

Cold Shoulder Top

Cold shoulder tops are another trendy option for women with an hourglass figure because they create more of an hour glass shape while also showing off your beautiful shoulders. This can be done with a tunic style top, but also works well with cropped styles like you see here.

Tie Sleeve Top

Tie sleeve tops are another great option for women with hourglass figures because they show off your beautiful upper body while also creating balance by drawing attention to the lower half of your body.

This particular option is a great option for an evening out when paired with your favorite skirt or dress.

Peek-a-Boo Back

A peek-a-boo back top , is another great option for showing off your hourglass figure because it will draw attention to the waist and bust while concealing any trouble spots on your upper body.

This particular style is a great option for pairing with high waisted pencil skirts or slacks to create a very classic look that is both stylish and flattering!

V Neck

A V neck top is another great top option for women with an hourglass figure because it will show off your beautiful bust while also slimming down your shoulders and waist.

Pair a v neck top with high-waisted pants or skirt to create a balance between your upper and lower body.

Chiffon Top

A chiffon top is another great option for women with an hourglass figure because this style helps camouflage problem areas on your midsection while also creating a curvier silhouette.

For extra allure, choose a top that is adorned with a print or a longer style to add some subtle drama.

Cropped Top

Cropped tops are another trendy option for hourglass figures because they show off your waist while also creating balance by drawing attention to the lower half of your body. This is another outfit that will be perfect for pairing with high waisted pants or skirts to create a more flattering look and fit.

Striped Top

Stripes and hourglass figures seem to go hand in hand, so this is another great choice of top for the women with an hourglass figure because it creates balance on the upper half of your body.

Pair this top with high waisted pants or a skirt to create a very flattering look that is also ultra stylish.

Smock Top

A smock top is another great option for an hourglass shape.

Pair a smock top with a pencil skirt or slacks for a very stylish and flattering ensemble!

Corset Top:

A corset style top is another great option for any hourglass figure because this style does an amazing job at creating the illusion of a smaller waist

Pair this top with jeans or slacks for a very flattering and stylish look.

Best Skirts For Hourglass Figure

What are the best skirt styles for an hourglass figure and how do you style them?

Skirts have been a wardrobe staple for as long as women have worn clothes.

In my eyes, there’s nothing more stylish than a woman in a well-fitted skirt that skims her hips and shows off those killer curves with her hourglass body shape.

So, Let”s talk about those skirts.

These are the best skirts for an hourglass figure and how you can style them.

A line Skirt

A-line skirts are a great for any hourglass figure. The A-line silhouette is the best way to achieve a fitted look without being too tight or constricting.

Wear an A Line skirt with a simple T shirt and flats/pumps for a casual but polished look, or dress it up from day to night with heels and a blazer.

Pencil Skirts

Pencil skirts are known for their tight, form-fitting shape that hugs your curves in all the right ways.

If you have an hourglass figure, there’s nothing better than a pencil skirt to show off your beautiful waistline.

Wear this style with a loose fitting top tucked into the skirt at the waist for added definition.

Wrap Skirt

Wrap skirts are another great option for creating an hourglass figure, plus they have the added benefit of being extremely comfortable.

Tie a knot in the front of the skirt for extra definition at your waistline, or keep things simple by wearing it with a flowy top and sandals on warm days.

Maxi Skirt

A maxi skirt is the most comfortable skirt style for an hourglass figure. Look for one that flares out at the hemline, or wear a tiered maxi to really show off your curves.

Maxi skirts are perfect for adding volume to your bottom half, so embrace the wholeheartedly.

You can style it with a snug bodysuit and heels, or wear a loose-fitting blouse for a more relaxed feel.

Tulip Skirt

Tulip skirt is a more fluid version of a pencil skirt, as it flares out from the knee. This style is best for those ladies who have curves from the waist to their hips, but aren’t as blessed in the thigh department.

If you’re lucky enough to be well-proportioned like Kim Kardashian, then this is definitely your best option for a skirt style.

Style it by pairing with a loose-fitting tee and heels for summertime, or throw on a long sleeve shirt and booties on cooler days.

Fit and Flare

Fit and flare skirts are great for hourglass figures because they also flatter your hips, which is where many women hold their curves (but of course anyone can wear this style).

If you’re feeling extra daring, try a bright color or pattern to really make your outfit pop.

Asymetric Skirt

Asymmetrical skirt styles are a lot of fun, and they’re a great way to show off your hourglass figure.

Whether you wear with a simple tee or dress it up with heels and a blazer, this style is always chic.

Sheath Skirt

The most flattering skirt style for Hourglass figures, sheath skirts cling to your curves in all of the right ways, without being too tight or uncomfortable.

mid-calfLook for a sheath skirt that hits mid- calf or longer, as shorter styles can make your thighs look larger.

If you’re looking for a skirt style that accentuates your curves, but don’t want to wear anything too tight or constricting, then this is the one for you!

Try styling it for a classy night out with a lace blouse and pumps. Or, dress it down for a casual day look with a beautiful tee and sandals.

Conclusion Hourglass Body Shape

I hope this blog post has helped you learn more about how to dress for your hourglass shape. If it seems like there is still a lot of information that feels overwhelming, don’t worry! 

Read over this post as many times as you need to, to really understand how to style your body shape.

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