Hourglass Body Shape
A balanced shape with a naturally defined waist. Here’s how to dress it in a way that feels like you.
If your shoulders and hips are fairly similar in width and your waist is noticeably narrower, you may have an hourglass shape. But you don’t need exact measurements to know. Body shape is about your overall proportions.
You don’t need to change or “correct” your shape. The idea is simply to understand which styles and silhouettes you enjoy wearing.
Hourglass at a glance
Balanced Proportions
Your bust and hips are fairly similar in width.
Defined Waist
Your waist is noticeably narrower than your bust and hips.
Natural Balance
Your proportions already create a balanced silhouette.
Body shapes are a guide, not a measurement test.
Your individual proportions and preferences matter more than fitting perfectly into a category.
The Hourglass Styling Principle
If you have an hourglass shape, highlighting your waist is a simple place to start. But that doesn’t mean everything has to be fitted. A tucked-in top, a belt or a jacket that follows your waist can create definition without making the outfit feel tight.
Think of these as styling tools, not rules. The best outfit is the one that makes you feel comfortable and like yourself.
Styles to Wear More Intentionally
None of these styles are off-limits. They just create a different effect and may make your waist less noticeable.
- ×Boxy, waistless cuts — They can create a straighter shape when that’s not the look you’re going for.
- ×Very stiff fabrics — Stiff fabrics can make your shape feel less defined.
- ×Head-to-toe oversized looks — Wearing oversized pieces on both the top and bottom can make your waist less noticeable.
- ×Low-rise bottoms — They can put the focus lower on the body rather than on your waist.
What Tends to Work Well
Define the waist
Belts, wrap details, seams and fitted cuts can help highlight your natural waistline. You can also get the same effect with a simple tuck or a jacket that follows your waist.
Keep your proportions balanced
You don’t have to match your top and bottom exactly. The idea is simply to keep one side of the outfit from feeling much heavier than the other.
Choose Flattering Necklines
V-necks, scoop necks and sweetheart necklines can all work well with an hourglass shape. Try different necklines and see which ones feel most like you.
Experiment with wrap details
Wrap dresses and tops are an easy way to add definition around the waist. They can also give you a little flexibility around the fit, which makes them easy to wear.
Try mid- and high-rise bottoms
Mid- and high-rise bottoms can help bring attention back to the waist. Try different rises and see which one feels most comfortable and balanced on you.
Look for fabrics with movement
Softer fabrics can skim the body without feeling restrictive. They can be especially nice when you want a little shape without a fitted look.
4 Easy Hourglass Outfit Ideas
Not sure where to start? Here are four easy outfit ideas that bring some definition to the waist without making things feel too fitted.
The Weekend Wrap
A wrap top with high-waisted jeans creates shape while keeping things relaxed.
The Defined-Waist Work Look
A tailored blazer with a defined waist and straight-leg trousers gives you a structured look that still feels easy to wear.
The Belted Denim Look
A tucked-in shirt and a belt help define your waist and balance your silhouette.
The Evening Fit & Flare
A fit-and-flare dress defines the waist while giving the skirt a little more room to move.
Explore Your Hourglass Style
Hourglass Outfit Ideas
Easy outfit ideas for work, weekends, casual days and evenings.
Hourglass Wardrobe Essentials
The pieces worth having when you want a wardrobe that works with your shape.
Hourglass Style Formulas
Simple outfit combinations you can mix, match and make your own.
Not Sure You’re an Hourglass?
Your body doesn’t have to fit neatly into one category. If you’re not sure which shape sounds most like you, take the quiz or have a look at all five guides.
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