Hourglass Body Shape Style Guide
The hourglass figure is characterized by a well-defined waist with bust and hip measurements that are nearly equal. This balanced silhouette is often considered the classic feminine shape, with curves in all the right places. Your natural proportions create a beautiful symmetry that many clothing styles complement perfectly.
Not sure if you're an hourglass shape? Take our quizHourglass Body Shape Characteristics
Key Features
- Bust and hips are approximately the same width
- Well-defined, narrow waist
- Curved hips and thighs
- Shoulders align with hips
- Weight tends to distribute evenly
Celebrity Hourglass Shapes
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How to Dress an Hourglass Body Shape
Emphasize your defined waist with belted styles and wrap designs
Choose fitted clothing that follows your natural curves
Opt for V-necks and scoop necks to balance your proportions
High-waisted bottoms highlight your smallest point
Structured fabrics help maintain your silhouette without adding bulk
Best Clothes for Hourglass Body Shape
Best Tops
- Wrap tops
- Fitted blouses
- V-neck sweaters
- Peplum tops
- Bodycon styles
Best Bottoms
- High-waisted jeans
- Pencil skirts
- A-line skirts
- Bootcut pants
- Tailored trousers
Best Dresses
- Wrap dresses
- Bodycon dresses
- Fit-and-flare
- Belted shirt dresses
- Mermaid gowns
Best Outerwear
- Belted coats
- Fitted blazers
- Cropped jackets
- Trench coats
- Tailored wool coats
What Hourglass Shapes Should Avoid
- Boxy, shapeless tops that hide your waist
- Low-rise pants that cut off your curves
- Oversized clothing that obscures your figure
- Horizontal stripes across the midsection
- Stiff fabrics that add unnecessary bulk
Hourglass Body Shape FAQ
What is an hourglass body shape?
An hourglass body shape features a well-defined waist with bust and hip measurements that are nearly equal. The shoulders align with the hips, creating a balanced, curved silhouette that is often considered the classic feminine shape.
What clothes look best on an hourglass figure?
Hourglass figures look best in fitted clothing that follows natural curves: wrap dresses, high-waisted pants, belted styles, V-neck tops, and bodycon silhouettes. The key is emphasizing the defined waist while maintaining balance between bust and hips.
What should hourglass body shapes avoid wearing?
Hourglass shapes should avoid boxy or shapeless tops that hide the waist, low-rise pants that cut off curves, oversized clothing that obscures the figure, and stiff fabrics that add unnecessary bulk to an already curvy frame.
How do I know if I have an hourglass body shape?
You have an hourglass shape if your bust and hips are approximately the same width (within 1-2 inches), and your waist is significantly narrower (typically 9+ inches smaller than bust/hips). Your shoulders should align with your hips.
About This Guide
Classification Basis
Hourglass body shape classification is part of the five-category system used in fashion styling, characterized by balanced bust and hip measurements with a significantly smaller waist.
Prevalence
According to NC State University's SizeUSA study (2004), approximately 8% of women have a true hourglass body shape, making it relatively uncommon.
Limitations
Styling recommendations are general guidance based on proportional balance principles. Individual preferences and comfort should always take priority.
External Reference: Wikipedia - Female body shape
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