A narrow waist, a full bust, and perfectly proportioned shoulders and hips – this is the simplest way to describe the hourglass figure , one of the most desirable body types. Its charm stems primarily from the overall body symmetry and clearly defined assets. In the fashion world, hourglass figures are allowed the most experimentation because they are relatively easy to match with the right outfit. However, there are a few rules worth remembering to avoid accidentally squandering the potential this figure offers. Learn our tips for an hourglass figure .
Hourglass Clothing - General Rules and Best Practices
The greatest advantage of the hourglass figure is its proportionality. It's characterized by equally wide shoulders and hips and a narrow waist . Ideally, their ratio is 90-60-90. This figure also typically features a rounded butt and fuller bust. However, this isn't a rule, as hourglass women can vary in bust size, height, and other body shapes.

Regardless of whether a woman wears a size XS, M, or XXL, clothes for an hourglass figure should meet several key criteria. First, they should accentuate the body's natural assets, such as a defined waist and rounded hips. Tighter garments and flowing fabrics that drape easily are ideal for this purpose.
The hourglass figure doesn't like stiff fabrics or baggy clothing. Oversized clothing will be a disadvantage unless it's accessorized with a waist-cinching belt. It's also worth avoiding wide sleeves and heavily embellished busts. These can distort natural proportions and visually enlarge the upper body.
Dresses for hourglass figures
Hourglass dresses are a fascinating topic that could be devoted to more than one article. An hourglass figure looks good in a variety of outfits – from simple cocktail dresses to figure-hugging Hollywood evening gowns. The most important thing is that an hourglass dress accentuates the bust and waistline. Dresses with a V-neckline and those that are cinched at the waist are good choices. Women with proportionate figures look stunning in pencil dresses and mermaid dresses . For everyday wear, we recommend belted or slightly flared dresses.
Mountain of styling
Hourglass figures, unlike other body types, don't have to be so careful when choosing tops. They can afford blouses that boldly show off their figure or accentuate their bust. Women with a minimalist approach to fashion should appreciate long-sleeved bodysuits with a round neckline. For everyday wear, we also recommend women's turtlenecks , which pair perfectly with high-waisted trousers or a pencil skirt.
Pants and skirts for hourglass figures
Which pants or skirts are best for an hourglass figure? Of course, they should be those that don't distort proportions and help accentuate their assets. Women with this figure type can choose high-waisted styles, as they will beautifully accentuate their cinched waist, and in the case of trousers, straight-leg or wider-legged styles. This isn't a rule, but when a waist is accentuated, fitted tops paired with looser trousers will typically accentuate the curves of this figure. While lower garments can be made of lightweight fabric, they should never be baggy. As with pencil dresses, long pants and skirts should be paired with heels to visually lengthen the legs and add a touch of lightness to the figure. Of course, it all depends on your preferences and your everyday style , so as always, we emphasize that fashion is fun to play with, and we hope you find our tips useful and valuable.

If you have an hourglass figure, you're in luck. You can experiment with many styles and ultimately choose one that suits both your figure and your taste.

Patricia from ANSIN


