Style Advice for an Hourglass Body Shape
Classically curvy in a Marilyn Monroe style, the hourglass is a very sexy shape. The typical hourglass has a full bust and hips emphasised by a small waist to make a fabulous figure of eight. Despite the hourglass shape being sought-after by men and women alike, it can be a tricky shape to dress as modern fashion doesn’t always cater for curves like yours. The secret is to make sure you show off that dainty waist of yours with fitted clothing and waist-nipping belts. Hide it in baggy clothes and no-one will know it’s there – and you’ll look bigger than you are.
Go for a medium to low neckline: V-neck, square neck, scoop neck and sweetheart necks will all look gorgeous. Three quarter sleeves will be cute on you.
Layer a cami underneath any tops that come down a little too low on you to keep it chic for work.
Avoid baggy tops, tunics and empire line tops that flow down from under your bust as they’ll hide that waist completely.
Also steer clear of tops with big bows and ruffles at the bust.
Be careful with fitted shirts and cardigans – they need to fit you at both the bust and the waist. A minimiser bra can help with gaping buttons. Or choose one that fits your waist - and wear it unbuttoned at the top and layered over a light top. Don’t get one to fit your boobs that means it’s baggy at the waist.
Skirts
You’ll look fab in pencil skirts and flared skirts alike. In fact, your figure was made for skirts and dresses so don’t be afraid to forgo the trousers in favour of a skirt.
A knee length A-line skirt or fifties-style full circle skirt will look gorgeous – look for styles that start from the waist.
Avoid ruffles and flounces and stick to the clean lines of your curves.
Careful with anything too short and stretchy – you’re sexy enough already!
Dresses
Most types of dresses will suit you as long as you stick to styles that hug that waist.
Strapless mini dresses and fifties style low neck halter dresses were just made for your curves. Look out for dresses with net in the skirts for a cute look for your shape.
If you’re going for a low neckline don’t go for too short a skirt length.
Remember, your bust already has all the va va voom it needs so don’t go OTT with big bows and ruffles at the bosom.
Avoid straight sheath dresses and flapper style tiered dresses that will look better on a more boyish frame. High neck halters and slash necks won’t do your bigger bust any favours.
Jeans and trousers
If you’ve a bigger bottom you may struggle with low rise jeans so look for those that come up a little high at the waist.
Capri pants will emphasise those fifties style curves.
You’ll look good in nearly all trouser styles, from skinny jeans to wide legs and flares – it’s all just a matter of confidence.
Coats and Jackets
You’ve got two main options: a cute cropped jacket that finishes just at the waist or a longer belted coat or Mac that flares out from the waist. Large lapels and fuller skirted styles will really show off your shape.
Avoid long straight coats, drop-waisted styles and puffy, padded styles.
Because of your bigger boobs you’ll suit V-neck styles rather than higher neck styles like pea coats or funnel neck coats. If you find these a bit draughty accessorise with a scarf.
Underwear
A good bra is essential to every woman’s wardrobe – but especially so when you have a big bust. Make sure you’re wearing the right size to start with by going for a fitting or following an online measuring guide. You’ll find a full cup, underwired bra will give you the best shape and support, but a balconette is a great alternative if you’re wearing something a little lower.
Finishing Touches
A waist-cinching belt is an hourglass girl’s best friend. Add one to loose fitting tops and dresses to turn a fashion faux-pas for your shape into something fabulous.
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