30 Amazing Outfit Tips For An Hourglass Body Shape

By Miruna Dulcea Mar 16, 2024

If you have an hourglass body shape, you should consider yourself lucky!

The hourglass body shape is considered the perfect silhouette and many women dream of it. In fact, all the outfit recommendations for the other body shapes are meant to balance their proportions and make them look more like an hourglass figure.

In this article, we will take a look at what an hourglass body shape is, what your styling goals should be, and how to achieve the most beautiful outfits that highlight your best features.

To help you be the best dressed, we have compiled a list of 30 amazing tips. Keep reading to discover them!

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What is it?

Determining and understanding your body shape can help you highlight your best features with confidence and ease.

Let's talk about what exactly an hourglass body shape is! If you have a well-defined waist and a full chest that is roughly the same width as your hips, chances are you have an hourglass silhouette.

Your body shape is recognized for balanced, symmetrical proportions, and a narrow waist.

Styling goals

Because you have what is considered the perfect body shape, there is no need to do much to adjust your proportions, or to draw attention from one body part to another.

You should be celebrating your natural curves with clothes that highlight your body shape.

Make sure to purchase clothing items in the right size for your body because anything too big or too small might not be flattering.

Define your waist

Accentuating your waist is very important because this area is one of your biggest assets.

How to do it? Choose tailored clothes that are designed to be well fitted around your waist, high-waisted skirts and pants, and use belts.

If you are interested in ethically made belts, check out our selection of vegan leather belts for women.

What to avoid

Stay away from clothes that don't flatter your body. Boxy designs hide your beautiful curves and should be avoided. Choose well-fitted clothing items instead!

Avoid clothing items that throw off your body's proportions. Voluminous sleeves, oversized jackets, and baggy pants are not flattering for your body type!

Stay away from very large prints that overwhelm your proportions.

Don't forget that tailoring is the only way to achieve a perfect wardrobe. Not all clothes will fit perfectly from the start, this is why you should never skip the tailor. You can easily obtain an amazing wardrobe full of clothes that perfectly fit and flatter your hourglass body!

Pencil skirt

A pencil skirt will follow your natural body lines, highlighting your best features. Opt for a fabric that is stretchy and allows freedom of movement.

Wear your skirt with cute blouses and shirts.

Let yourself be inspired by the 20 best affordable and sustainable pencil skirts.

Sweetheart necklines

Sweetheart necklines are perfect for creating an elegant and romantic outfit.

This flattering neckline enhances your bust while accentuating your waist, creating a feminine and elegant look. Whether you opt for a sweetheart neckline dress or a top, this style is a timeless choice for hourglass figures.

Discover our best tips for a romantic fashion-style wardrobe.

V-neckline

V- necklines are another gorgeous choice that can help you highlight your best features.

Opt for well-fitted T-shirts, blouses, and dresses featuring this flattering detail.

Long-sleeved top

Long-sleeved tops are a great choice for hourglass figures because they can help create a streamlined look while still showcasing your curves.

Opt for tops with a bit of stretch to hug your curves in all the right places. V-neck or scoop-neck tops are very flattering for hourglass shapes. It is better to choose fitted sleeves that don't overwhelm your frame.

Purchase your clothes from one of these 20 best slow fashion brands.

Fitted blazer

A fitted blazer is a must-have staple for anyone with an hourglass body shape. Not only does it cinch in at the waist to highlight your curves, but it also adds structure and sophistication to any outfit.

Pair your fitted blazer with high-waisted pants or a pencil skirt to emphasize your curves even further.

Don't forget to take a look at the 12 best recycled blazers for an elegant outfit.

Swimwear

When it comes to swimwear, embrace your hourglass shape with confidence.

Look for swimsuits that offer support and structure to highlight your curves while providing comfort. One-piece swimsuits can help accentuate your waist, while high-waisted bikini bottoms can draw attention to your long legs and hourglass silhouette.

There is a lot to choose from, but the most important thing in order to be comfortable and confident is to be wholeheartedly happy with your choice.

Here are the 20 best sustainable swimwear brands in Europe.

Underwear

For an hourglass body shape, it's crucial to wear bras that provide proper support and lift to your bust.

Opt for underwire bras or push-up bras that enhance your cleavage and create a flattering silhouette. High-waisted underwear is a great choice for you as it accentuates your waist and highlights your curves.

Look for seamless styles that provide a smooth foundation for your outfits.

Check out the eight best affordable Scandinavian underwear brands.

Sweater

When it comes to sweaters, there is a lot to choose from. Available in many colors and designs, sweaters are cute, versatile, comfortable, and fashionable.

You can choose a V-neck sweater that will draw attention to your neckline and elongate your upper body. Pair it with fitted bottoms to balance out your silhouette.

Wrap sweaters are another fantastic option for hourglass shapes as they cinch at the waist and accentuate your curves.

Take a look at the best sustainable sweater brands.

Layers

Experiment with beautiful layers!

Too many layers are not recommended because they can add bulk to your silhouette, but knowing how to layer your clothes can help you achieve fashionable and unique outfits that will not go unnoticed.

If you have layered your clothes and the result seems bulky, you can always add a belt to accentuate your waist.

Well-fitted shirt

Shirts are timeless clothing items that should exist in everyone's wardrobe.

They are a must-have for an elegant office outfit, but also for formal occasions.
A well-fitted shirt can help you craft a spotless, elegant look.

Discover the best sustainable shirts.

Sweater dress

A-line sweater dresses are another excellent choice for hourglass shapes as they flare out from the waist, creating a balanced silhouette. Look for styles that hit just above the knee for a chic and flattering look.

Browse through the 20 best cheap and cute sweater dresses.

Avoid chunky knitwear

Chunky knitwear can add a lot of unwanted volume to your body, overwhelming your silhouette.

To avoid this, stay away from oversized and chunky designs, and stick to well-fitted ones.

Winter coat

A well-fitted winter coat is a must-have for every woman, especially those with an hourglass shape.

Opt for coats that cinch at the waist to emphasize your curves. A belted coat or a wrap coat can work wonders by highlighting your narrow waist and creating a flattering silhouette.

Here is our list of eco-friendly winter coats.

Trench coat

For spring and autumn, we recommend trench coats. They are classic clothing items that will never go out of style.

Opt for a trench coat that cinches at the waist to highlight your curves. Whether you're dressing up for a day at the office or a night out, a trench coat is a versatile piece that will look fantastic.

Don't forget to check out the best affordable and sustainable trench coats.

Skinny jeans

Skinny jeans are a wardrobe staple that looks fabulous on hourglass figures.

The form-fitting style of skinny jeans accentuates your curves and elongates your legs. Pair them with a cozy sweater or a fitted top to balance out your look.

To create a polished outfit, tuck in your top or opt for a cropped style to showcase your waist.

Click here if you are interested in sustainable jeans!

Midi skirt

Midi skirts are a chic and versatile option for hourglass shapes. They are incredibly versatile and work well for many occasions.

You can easily dress up or down a midi skirt, depending on your preferences.

Purchase a fashionable midi skirt from a sustainable brand.

Bodycon dress

When it comes to showcasing your curves, a bodycon dress is your best friend.

This form-fitting style hugs your curves in all the right places, accentuating your waistline and showcasing your hourglass shape. It is a great choice for date nights and parties! Don't forget to add a pair of stiletto shoes.

Here are the 12 best sustainable bodycon dresses.

Slip dress

Slip dresses are another great option for those with an hourglass body shape.

The sleek and simple silhouette of a slip dress skims over your curves, highlighting your waist and accentuating your figure.

Slip dresses are trendy in 2024 and you will easily create a modern and effortlessly stylish outfit with one.

Thankfully, many sustainable brands offer affordable and ethically made slip dresses.

Gown

Embrace the beauty of gowns for a glamorous night out.

Opt for styles that cinch at the waist and flow gracefully over your curves. A-line gowns, wrap dresses, and mermaid silhouettes are all excellent choices for showcasing your curves in style.

Take a peek at our recommendations.

Basics

Basic clothes are incredibly important if you want to have a stylish and versatile wardrobe. They can be the basis for a wide variety of outfits, from casual to formal.

Learn more about the 20 best basics you should own.

Leggings

When it comes to casual wear, leggings are a fantastic choice.

Opt for high-waisted leggings that accentuate your waist and hug your curves in all the right places. Pair them with a fitted top or a flowy blouse for a balanced look.

If you need shopping inspiration, here are the best workout leggings with side pockets.

Jewelry

No outfit is complete without accessories.

You can emphasize your chest and make your outfits more interesting with beautiful necklaces. Luckily, they can now be both affordable and ethically made.

Check out these ethical jewelry brands.

Mini skirt

Mini skirts are a fun and flirty choice for showcasing your hourglass shape. Look for skirts that sit at your natural waist and gently flare out over your hips.

A-line, bodycon, and skater skirts are particularly flattering for hourglass figures. Pair your mini skirt with a fitted top or a tucked-in blouse to highlight your waist.

You can also complete your outfit with a beautiful sweater or cardigan.

Discover the best affordable and sustainable mini skirts.

Blouse

Blouses are cute and stylish.

A tucked-in blouse can help you highlight your waist and look gorgeous! Don't forget to purchase yours from an ethical brand.

Tank top

Tank tops can be worn both as garments and undergarments. They are statement clothing items in every woman's wardrobe.

You can wear your tank top with a pencil skirt or skinny jeans.

To help you be the best dressed, we have compiled a list of the most amazing tank tops.

Cocktail dress

If you love parties, you need to own one of these gorgeous cocktail dresses that come from sustainable brands!

They will help you highlight your best features and steal the spotlight while feeling confident and comfortable.

Pants

No matter if you want to craft an elegant outfit for work, or just want to grab a coffee with your friends, a pair of tailored pants can help you look your best. Pair them with a beautiful shirt or blouse and elegant shoes.

For a classic look, choose a neutral color such as black or dark gray. If you want to create a vibrant outfit that will help you stand out from the crowd, you can choose something more colorful.

Don't forget that mixing too many loud prints can overwhelm your frame and it is always better to stick to small and subtle patterns to maintain balance.

Check out our selection of sustainable pants.

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About the Author: Miruna Dulcea

Miruna Dulcea has a science degree in Physics. She enjoys learning foreign languages and has so far lived and worked in four countries across Europe. Apart from her interest in science, she has a passion for fragrance and loves animals and art in all forms. - "Writing is a binder that breaks physical, temporal, and cultural boundaries and connects people everywhere, and that is the powerful fuel that motivates me to express myself with this form of communication. It is about both learning and sharing."