If you’re lucky enough to have an hourglass figure, you know that it’s a coveted body type. But finding the right clothes to flatter your curves can be a challenge. The key is to choose clothes that accentuate your waist and create a balanced silhouette. In this article, we’ll share our top tips for dressing an hourglass figure, and we’ll provide some outfit inspiration to help you get started.
One of the best ways to flatter an hourglass figure is to wear clothes that are fitted at the waist. This will help to define your curves and create a more balanced look. You can also try wearing clothes with empire waists, which are high-waisted and flowy, or A-line dresses, which are fitted at the waist and flare out at the bottom. These styles will help to create a more flattering silhouette for your body type.
In addition to choosing the right clothes, it’s also important to pay attention to the details. For example, you can use belts to cinch in your waist and create a more defined silhouette. You can also try wearing heels to elongate your legs and make you look taller. By following these tips, you can find the perfect clothes to flatter your hourglass figure and make you look your best.
Emphasizing Curves: The Importance of Fitted Silhouettes
The Magic of Tailoring
Fitted silhouettes are the epitome of hourglass sophistication. They not only accentuate the natural curves of the body but also create a sleek and polished look. When it comes to garments, choose pieces that hug the waist and flare out slightly at the hips and bust. This will create a subtle hourglass silhouette that is both flattering and eye-catching. Avoid baggy or loose-fitting clothing, as they can hide your curves and create a more boxy appearance.
Attention to Detail
Pay close attention to the details of your tailored pieces. Look for garments with darts or seams that define the waist. These details will help to create a more defined and flattering shape. Additionally, consider adding a belt to further emphasize the waistline. Choose a belt that is slightly wider than average to provide a more dramatic effect.
The Role of Fabrics
The choice of fabric can significantly impact the overall look of a fitted silhouette. Opt for fabrics that have some stretch, such as jersey or ponte knit. These materials will conform to the body, creating a more flattering fit. Avoid overly stiff or structured fabrics, as they can restrict movement and create a less flattering shape.
| Do | Don’t |
| Fitted silhouettes | Baggy clothing |
| Darts/seams to define waist | Undefined waistlines |
| Belts to accentuate waist | Wide, unflattering belts |
| Stretch fabrics | Stiff, structured fabrics |
Enhancing the Waist: Tips for Cinching and Defining
For an hourglass figure, creating a defined and cinched waist is crucial. Here are some tips to help you achieve a flattering silhouette:
Choose Fitted and High-Waisted Clothing
Opt for pieces that emphasize your natural curves and nip in at the waist. High-waisted skirts, pants, and dresses help create the illusion of a smaller waist and longer legs. Avoid loose or low-waisted garments that can hide your curves and make you appear boxy.
Highlight the Waist with Belts
Belts are a stylish and effective way to cinch the waist and further define your hourglass figure. Choose belts in contrasting colors or textures to create a focal point and draw attention to your waistline. Opt for wider belts to create a bolder statement or thinner belts for a more subtle accent.
Try Cinching Blazers and Jackets
Not only do blazers and jackets add a touch of sophistication, but they can also accentuate the waist. Look for blazers with cinched waistlines or built-in belts that create a flattering hourglass silhouette. You can also add a belt to a jacket without a cinched waist for a similar effect.
Experiment with Waist-Defining Underwear
Shapewear and other waist-defining undergarments can provide a discreet way to enhance your curves. Choose high-waisted shapewear that offers targeted compression around the waist and hips, helping to create a smoother and more defined silhouette.
Consider Bodice Details and Accessories
Pay attention to bodice details like ruching, pleating, or empire waists. These create a flattering curve and draw the eye towards your waistline. Accessories like scarves or necklaces can also be strategically placed to highlight your waist and create a more balanced look.
| Waist-Defining Clothing and Accessories |
|---|
| Fitted skirts, pants, and dresses |
| Belts in contrasting colors or textures |
| Cinched blazers and jackets |
| Waist-defining shapewear |
| Bodices with ruching, pleating, or empire waists |
| Scarves or necklaces placed at the waistline |
Balancing Hips and Bust: Creating a Proportionate Look
For hourglass figures, the key to a proportionate look lies in balancing the hips and bust. This can be achieved through the careful selection of clothing that emphasizes the waist while minimizing the hips and bust.
Creating an Illusion of Curves: Draw Attention to the Waist
Emphasizing the waist is crucial for creating an hourglass illusion. Choose pieces that cinch at the waist, such as:
- Belted dresses and skirts
- Wrap tops
- Peplum blouses
These items accentuate the narrowest part of the body, creating a visual hourglass shape.
Defining Curves: Highlighting the Bust
Hourglass figures often have naturally ample busts. Enhancing this feature can help balance the hips, creating a more proportionate silhouette. Opt for:
- Balconette or underwire bras
- Ruched tops
- Blouses with gathers or pleats at the bust
These styles elevate and shape the bust, accentuating its curves.
Balancing the Hips: Visually Minimizing Volume
To visually minimize the hips, it’s important to avoid clothing that adds bulk or emphasizes this area. Instead, choose pieces that:
- Have a straight or A-line cut
- Feature dark or solid colors
- Are made from flowy or drapey fabrics
These elements help create a more streamlined silhouette, reducing the appearance of hip volume.
| Clothing Item | Effect |
|---|---|
| Belted Dress | Emphasizes waist |
| Ruched Top | Highlights bust |
| A-Line Skirt | Minimizes hips |
Skirts that Skim and Enhance: Choosing the Right Lengths and Styles
Skirts are a versatile piece of clothing that can flatter any figure. For hourglass figures, the key is to choose skirts that skim the body and enhance your curves. Here are a few tips:
Lengths
The best skirt lengths for hourglass figures are those that fall just above or below the knee. This length will help to elongate your legs and accentuate your waist. Avoid skirts that are too short or too long, as they can make you look frumpy or unbalanced.
Styles
There are many different styles of skirts that can flatter hourglass figures. Some of the most popular options include:
- A-line skirts – A-line skirts are fitted at the waist and flare out at the hem. They create a flattering silhouette for hourglass figures because they balance out the hips and shoulders.
- Pencil skirts – Pencil skirts are fitted throughout the entire length. They are a great choice for hourglass figures because they help to show off your curves.
- Circle skirts- Circle skirts are full and flowing, with a hem that falls below the knee. They are a good choice for hourglass figures because they add volume to the hips and create a balanced look.
- Wrap skirts – Wrap skirts are versatile and can be styled differently to suit any occasion. They are a good choice for hourglass figures because they can be cinched at the waist to create a flattering silhouette. They also come in a variety of lengths and styles, so you can find one that suits your taste.
Other Considerations
In addition to length and style, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing skirts that flattering for your hourglass figure. These include:
|
Fabric |
Choose skirts made from lightweight, flowy fabrics that will drape around your body. Avoid stiff or heavy fabrics that will make you look boxy. |
|
Waistband |
Make sure the skirt has a waistband that fits snugly around your waist. This will help to accentuate your curves and create a flattering silhouette. |
|
Accessories |
Accessorize your skirt with a belt to define your waist and add a touch of style. |
Tops that Accentuate: V-Necks, Wrap Tops, and Empire Waists
For an hourglass figure, the goal is to highlight the natural curves and create a balanced silhouette. Here are some top styles that flatter this body shape:
V-Necks
V-necks draw the eye vertically, elongating the neck and creating a slimming effect. They also accentuate the décolletage and add a touch of femininity.
Wrap Tops
Wrap tops are designed to cinch at the waist, creating definition and emphasizing the curves. The diagonal lines of the wrap also help to elongate the body and create a flattering V-shape.
Empire Waists
Empire waists sit high on the bodice, just below the bust, creating a flowy and flattering silhouette. This style hides any tummy area and highlights the décolletage.
Peplum Tops
Peplum tops add volume to the hips, creating a balanced look for hourglass figures. The flared peplum also helps to define the waist and accentuate the curves.
Asymmetrical Tops
Asymmetrical tops, with one side longer than the other, create a dynamic and eye-catching effect. They can balance out the body and draw attention to the desired areas.
Dresses Designed to Dazzle: From A-Line to Maxi and Beyond
A-Line Dresses: The Perfect Match for Feminine Curves
An A-line dress is an excellent choice for hourglass figures as it balances both the top and bottom halves of the body. The dress features a fitted bodice that gradually flares out from the waistline, creating an elegant and flattering silhouette.
Maxi Dresses: Effortless Chic for Hourglass Shapes
Maxi dresses offer a comfortable and stylish option for hourglass figures. The long, flowing fabric drapes beautifully over curves, accentuating the waistline and creating a feminine allure. Look for maxi dresses with a cinched waist or an empire waist to further define your silhouette.
Midi Dresses: A Versatile Option for Every Occasion
Midi dresses, which fall between knee-length and ankle-length, are a versatile choice for hourglass figures. They provide coverage while still showing off your curves. Pair a midi dress with heels or wedges to elongate your legs and create a sophisticated look.
Bodycon Dresses: Embracing Your Curves
Bodycon dresses are designed to hug every curve of your body. They are made from stretchy fabrics that emphasize your natural shape. While bodycon dresses can be flattering on hourglass figures, it’s important to choose a dress that fits you well and provides adequate coverage.
Wrap Dresses: Define Your Waistline with Style
Wrap dresses are a timeless choice for hourglass figures. They wrap around your body, creating a V-neckline and cinching your waist. Look for wrap dresses made from drapey fabrics that accentuate your curves.
Shift Dresses: Effortless and Relaxed
Shift dresses are loose-fitting dresses that fall straight from the shoulders. They are a comfortable and relaxed option for hourglass figures. While shift dresses do not define the waist as much as other dress styles, they can still be flattering with the right accessories, such as a belt or a necklace.
| Dress Style | Key Features |
|---|---|
| A-Line | Fitted bodice, flared skirt, balances top and bottom |
| Maxi | Long, flowing fabric, drapes over curves, cinched or empire waist |
| Midi | Between knee and ankle length, versatile, cinched waist or empire waist |
| Bodycon | Stretchy fabric, hugs curves, choose a well-fitting dress |
| Wrap | V-neckline, cinched waist, wraps around the body |
| Shift | Loose-fitting, falls straight from the shoulders, relaxed and comfortable |
Pants that Fit and Flatter: High-Waisted, Wide-Leg, and Tailored Styles
When it comes to pants for an hourglass figure, there are a few key styles that will always flatter: high-waisted, wide-leg, and tailored.
High-Waisted Pants
High-waisted pants sit at the natural waistline, which helps to accentuate your curves and create a more balanced silhouette. They come in a variety of styles, from skinny jeans to wide-leg trousers, so you can find a pair that suits your taste and body type.
Wide-Leg Pants
Wide-leg pants are a great choice for hourglass figures because they help to balance out your curves and create a more relaxed, casual look. They are available in a variety of fabrics, from denim to lightweight cotton, so you can find a pair that is comfortable and stylish.
Tailored Pants
Tailored pants are a great option for hourglass figures who want a more polished, sophisticated look. They are typically made from a heavier fabric, such as wool or cotton twill, and feature a more fitted silhouette. Tailored pants can be worn with a variety of tops, from blouses to sweaters, so you can create a variety of looks.
Additional Tips for Choosing Pants for an Hourglass Figure
- Choose pants that fit well in the waist and hips.
- Avoid pants that are too tight in the legs.
- Opt for pants that have a slightly flared leg to help balance out your curves.
- Consider the rise of the pants. A higher rise will help to accentuate your waistline.
- Choose pants that are made from a fabric that is comfortable and flattering.
- Pay attention to the details, such as the pockets and the belt loops.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles until you find a pair of pants that you love.
Outerwear that Complements: Jackets, Blazers, and Coats in Alluring Shapes
Embrace your hourglass figure with outerwear that accentuates your curves and complements your silhouette. Choose from a variety of jackets, blazers, and coats that highlight your waistline and create a visually balanced look.
Tailored Jackets
Tailored jackets are a wardrobe staple for hourglass figures. Look for jackets with a nipped-in waist that cinches in and creates a flattering shape. Choose fabrics that drape elegantly over your curves, such as wool, velvet, or ponte.
Belted Blazers
Belted blazers are a stylish and versatile choice for dressing up or down. The belt emphasizes your waistline, creating an hourglass silhouette. Opt for blazers with a structured fit and longer lapels that help elongate your frame.
Fitted Coats
Fitted coats, such as trench coats or peacoats, are a classic outerwear choice for hourglass figures. Look for coats that taper in at the waist and flare out slightly at the hips, creating a feminine and flattering shape. Choose coats with button fastenings or adjustable belts to customize the fit.
Wrap Coats
Wrap coats are a timeless and chic option for hourglass figures. They drape over your curves, creating a flattering V-neckline and cinching in at the waist. Choose wrap coats with a wide lapel and a tie closure to emphasize your silhouette.
Asymmetrical Hemlines
Asymmetrical hemlines add a touch of interest and modernity to your outerwear. Jackets or coats with one side shorter than the other create a visually appealing line that complements hourglass figures. This can help balance out your proportions and create a more dynamic look.
Longline Blazers
Longline blazers are a sophisticated choice for hourglass figures. They extend below the hips, creating a sleek and elongating silhouette. Pair longline blazers with fitted skirts or tailored pants to maintain balance.
A-Line Coats
A-line coats are ideal for hourglass figures as they flare out from the waist, creating a flattering A-shape. This style complements your curves without adding bulk, giving you a balanced and polished look.
Table of Jacket Shaping Options
| Jacket Type | Waistline Shaping Feature |
|---|---|
| Tailored Jacket | Nipped-in waist |
| Belted Blazer | Removable belt that cinches in the waist |
| Wrap Coat | Draped fabric that crosses over at the waist |
| Asymmetrical Hemline Jacket | Uneven hemline that creates a visually appealing line |
| Longline Blazer | Extends below the hips, creating an elongating effect |
| A-Line Coat | Flares out from the waist, creating a flattering A-shape |
Fabrics that Drape and Enhance: Choosing the Right Textures for Hourglass Figures
Hourglass figures are characterized by a balanced proportion between their bust and hips, with a defined waist. When choosing fabrics for hourglass figures, it’s important to consider textures that enhance and accentuate these curves while maintaining a flattering silhouette.
The best fabrics for hourglass figures drape well and have a soft, fluid feel. They allow the clothes to move with the body, creating a graceful and elegant look. Here are some specific fabric recommendations:
- Silk: A luxurious fabric that drapes beautifully and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
- Satin: A smooth and shiny fabric that gives a slinky and seductive appearance.
- Velvet: A rich and plush fabric that adds depth and warmth to an outfit.
- Chiffon: A lightweight and sheer fabric that creates a flowing and ethereal effect.
- Georgette: A slightly heavier and more opaque fabric than chiffon, with a delicate texture and graceful drape.
- Double-faced fabrics: Fabrics that have different textures on each side, providing versatility and interest to outfits.
- Lycra: A stretchy fabric that conforms to the body’s curves, creating a flattering fit.
- Crepe: A slightly textured fabric that adds visual interest and a touch of sophistication.
- Lace: A delicate and feminine fabric that adds a touch of whimsy and allure.
When selecting fabrics, it’s also important to consider the weight and opacity of the material. Heavier fabrics like velvet and double-faced fabrics are best suited for formal occasions, while lighter fabrics like chiffon and georgette are more appropriate for casual wear.
By choosing the right fabrics, hourglass figures can create a flattering and feminine look that highlights their best assets.
Style Tips for Confidence: Embracing Your Unique Silhouette
1. Highlight Your Waist
The key to dressing an hourglass figure is to accentuate your waist. Choose clothes that cinch in at the waist, such as fitted tops, belted dresses, and high-waisted pants. This will help to create a defined silhouette and highlight your curves.
2. Wear V-Necks and Scoop Necks
V-necks and scoop necks are flattering on hourglass figures because they elongate the neck and emphasize the bust. Avoid high necklines, which can make your upper body look wider.
3. Choose Structured Pieces
Structured pieces, such as blazers, peplum tops, and A-line skirts, can help to create a flattering hourglass shape. These pieces will give you definition and structure without adding bulk.
4. Avoid Oversized Clothing
Oversized clothing will hide your curves and make you look larger. Instead, choose clothes that fit your body well and accentuate your silhouette.
5. Wear Heels
Heels can help to elongate your legs and make you look slimmer. Choose heels that are comfortable to walk in and that provide you with support.
6. Use Shapewear
Shapewear can help to smooth out your body and create a more defined silhouette. Choose shapewear that is comfortable to wear and that provides you with the support you need.
7. Accessorize Wisely
Accessories can help to add interest to your outfit and accentuate your curves. Choose accessories that are proportional to your body size and that complement your outfit.
8. Experiment with Different Styles
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles to find what works best for you. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to dressing an hourglass figure. The key is to find what makes you feel confident and beautiful.
9. Be Confident
The most important style tip for any body type is to be confident. When you feel good about yourself, you will feel more confident in your clothing choices. So stand up straight, smile, and embrace your beautiful hourglass figure.
10. Know Your Measurements
It is important to know your measurements so that you can choose clothes that fit you well. Here is a table of measurements that you may find helpful:
| Measurement | How to Measure |
|---|---|
| Bust | Measure around the fullest part of your bust |
| Waist | Measure around the smallest part of your waist |
| Hips | Measure around the widest part of your hips |
| Inseam | Measure from the crotch to the bottom of your leg |
Best Clothes For Hourglass Figure
An hourglass figure is characterized by a defined waist and curves in both the bust and hips. When choosing clothes, it’s important to select pieces that accentuate your natural shape and create a balanced look. Here are some tips on how to dress an hourglass figure:
- Choose fitted tops and dresses. Fitted tops and dresses will help to define your waist and create a more flattering silhouette.
- Opt for A-line skirts and dresses. A-line skirts and dresses will help to balance out your hips and create a more flattering look.
- Wear V-neck tops. V-neck tops will help to elongate your neck and create a more flattering neckline.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are too baggy or too tight. Baggy clothes will hide your curves, while tight clothes will accentuate them too much.
- Accessorize with belts. Belts can help to define your waist and create a more flattering look.
People Also Ask
What are the best colors for hourglass figures?
The best colors for hourglass figures are those that complement your skin tone. If you have a fair skin tone, try wearing light colors such as white, cream, and beige. If you have a medium skin tone, try wearing colors such as blue, green, and purple. If you have a dark skin tone, try wearing colors such as black, brown, and red.
What type of shoes should hourglass figures wear?
Hourglass figures should wear shoes that elongate their legs and create a more balanced look. Avoid wearing shoes that are too high or too low.
What type of fabrics should hourglass figures avoid?
Hourglass figures should avoid wearing fabrics that are too sheer or too clingy. These fabrics will accentuate your curves too much and create a less flattering look.
