This article gives a refresher on how to dress an hourglass body shape, showcasing the latest trends for 2024.
Characteristics of the Hourglass Body
An hourglass figure typically features a well-defined, narrow waist with hips and bust of nearly the same size, both relatively large. While often considered the ideal body shape, having a significant bust can sometimes be challenging. If you have extra weight around your abdomen, you might also exhibit traits of an apple body shape.
Runway Inspiration for Hourglass Figures
Though many designers focus on rectangle or inverted triangle shapes, there are brands like Max Mara, Alexander McQueen, and Christian Dior that celebrate curves and cater to women with larger busts and hips.
Celebrities with an Hourglass Shape
Celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Raquel Welch, Nigella Lawson, Salma Hayek, and Christina Hendricks all have hourglass figures, highlighting that you’re in great company.
How to Dress an Hourglass Body
Nikki from 40notfrumpy shows us that a leopard print dress with booties and a v-neck that highlights the waist is a great choice for hourglass figures. Recreate her outfit with a similar dress, booties, and shoulder bag.
Is the Hourglass Shape the Most Attractive?
Some studies indicate that men find hourglass figures attractive due to the balanced silhouette of bust and hips of similar size. However, every body shape has its unique beauty.
Dressing Goals for the Hourglass Figure
To accentuate your feminine shape, opt for fitted clothes, especially around the waist. Focus on maintaining your natural balance without adding bulk. Avoid ruffles, extra width at the bust, and boxy styles that can make you look top-heavy or heavier than you are. Adding a belt, like Claudia from beafitmom.nl demonstrates, can emphasize your waist beautifully.
Dressing Tips for the Upper Body
– V-neck or deep neckline tops to avoid bulkiness.
– Dresses that fit snugly around the bust and elongate the waist.
– Supportive fabrics if you have abdominal weight.
– Fitted t-shirts with V-necks and shoulder accents.
– Coats that highlight the waist with a V-neck.
– Tailored, single-breasted jackets left open for a vertical line.
– Fitted shirts without buttons to the top.
– Flair just below the bust for tops worn with trousers.
– Light scarves for winter.
– Darker colors on top to minimize bust appearance.
– A supportive bra is essential.
Dressing Tips for the Lower Body
– Pencil skirts that follow your curves.
– Bootcut and flared pants to complement your shape.
– Pants that emphasize a slim waist before flaring out.
– Shoes with rounded toes, peep toes, or bows to mirror your curves.
What to Avoid
– Excess ruffles and fabric.
– Obvious waistbands or wide belts.
– Casual boxy styles.
– Flat lace-up shoes that can be unflattering.
Capsule Wardrobe for the Hourglass
Include tops, pants, skirts, dresses, shoes, and accessories that flatter your shape and keep up with this season’s trends. Scoop neck and v-neck tops, peplums, fitted and wrap styles are particularly flattering. Jackets should highlight the waist without being boxy, and wrap or retro-style dresses work best. Choose well-fitting jeans and skirts that balance your curves, and opt for round-toe shoes to complement your figure.
Accessories for the Hourglass
Retro scarves, rounded jewelry, and handbags that sit at your waist are ideal. Avoid bulk at the bust area, and use belts to accentuate your waist.
By following these tips, you can create a stylish and flattering wardrobe for your hourglass body shape.