How to Dress for an Hourglass Shape

With bombshells like Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page and Lynda Carter fitting the hourglass shape, this is the shape so many women aspire to be! If the below sounds like you, you’re a gorgeous 50+ hourglass.

• Your bust is the same width as your hips
• You have a defined waist

Hourglass is the shape all stylists aim to create, so the key here is to keep your outfits balanced to emphasise your shape.

Tops

It’s easy to choose the perfect top as an hourglass, just choose a top that keeps your look balanced. If the shoulders are more voluminous with cap sleeves and the like, team this with a pretty peplum bottom. Fitted tops are ideal for small waists, complete with a v neck or a shirt that can be tucked into a skirt or jeans work equally well, but we’d recommend staying away from baggy tees that will make you look bigger.

Jackets

The simple rule here is to stay away from shapeless jackets like peacoats and boxy blazers that will make you look larger, and opt for fitted or belted jackets that showcases your tiny waist.

Skirts

Fortunately, most skirts look gorgeous on an hourglass, but we think high-waisted skirts are key. Choose a flared skirt if you’re looking for a piece to even out your hip volume, and pencil skirts suit your shape perfectly.

Trousers

Like with skirts, flared trousers and bootcut trousers are ideal for evening out hip volume. Wide leg trousers also look gorgeous with a shirt tucked in, and high waisted jeans showcase your curves.

Dresses

Fitted dresses are key here, as loose fitting dresses will hide your waist and make you look larger. Fitted dresses are ideal for an hourglass shape, and if you have a particularly small waist, adjustable wrap dresses look fabulous. However, if you do like shift and loose dresses, team these with a belt to show off your waist.

Accessories

With your itty-bitty waist, belts are your best friends. Choose one in proportion to your size, and do the same thing with bags!

Swimwear

High-waisted bottoms are just perfect for an hourglass shape; they cinch in at your waist perfectly, and are ideal for hiding any tummy. Any colour and pattern goes with your shape, just make sure they match to keep your outfit balanced.