Body Shape Guide

Small Hourglass Body: Styling Guide for Smaller Hourglass Figures

The small hourglass body features classic hourglass proportions on a smaller frame. Learn how to dress this proportionate figure.

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Understanding the Small Hourglass Body

The small hourglass body has all the defining hourglass characteristics but with smaller overall measurements:

Small Hourglass Characteristics

1

Smaller bust and hips (balanced within 5%)

2

Defined waist (25%+ smaller)

3

Smaller overall frame

4

Proportionate curves for frame

Styling a Small Hourglass Body

Best Choices

  • • Fitted, proportionate clothing
  • • Wrap dresses and tops
  • • High-waisted bottoms
  • • V-necklines
  • • Small to medium prints
  • • Delicate accessories
  • • Bodycon dresses
  • • Tailored pieces

Avoid

  • • Oversized clothing
  • • Very large prints
  • • Bulky fabrics
  • • Empire waistlines
  • • Heavy layering
  • • Chunky accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a small hourglass body?

A small hourglass body has classic hourglass proportions (balanced bust/hips with defined waist) but with smaller overall measurements. The proportional relationships remain the same regardless of size.

How do I know if I have a small hourglass body?

If your bust and hips are balanced (within 5%), your waist is at least 25% smaller than both, and you have smaller measurements overall, you have a small hourglass body.

What should small hourglass bodies wear?

Small hourglass bodies look great in fitted clothing that defines the waist, wrap styles, high-waisted bottoms, V-necks, and pieces that are proportionate to a smaller frame.

Is small hourglass the same as petite hourglass?

They can overlap but are different. Small hourglass refers to smaller measurements while petite hourglass specifically refers to shorter height. You can be small without being petite, and vice versa.

What scale of prints suit small hourglass?

Smaller to medium-scale prints work best for small hourglass bodies. Very large prints can overwhelm a smaller frame. Choose prints proportionate to your body size.

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