Have you been blessed with an hourglass figure? Consider yourself lucky. The hourglass figure has long been seen as the epitome of femininity. Marilyn Monroe had one of the most celebrated hourglass figures in history (although it wasn’t without some shapewear somewhat like a 1950’s style Wonderbra!)
More recent celebrities with hourglass figures include Jennifer Lawrence, Beyonce, Ashley Graham, Christian Hendricks and Katy Perry. A bit more controversially you’ve also got the Kardashian/Jenner clan who’ve had a bit more help to achieve their hourglass looks!
Even with such an enviable silhouette, it can be difficult to find a dress that fits just right and shows off your proportions in all their glory.
In this post, we’ll break down the best dress styles for hourglass figures that accentuate your natural curves. It’ll make shopping a little bit easier because you’ll know what to look for.
Understanding the Hourglass Body Shape
Who doesn’t love an hourglass figure! Okay so you might not make it as a supermodel, but with natural balance and curves you’ve got the kind of silhouette many women (and men) dream of.
Key Characteristics of an Hourglass Figure
The hourglass body shape boasts several defining features that make it unique:
- Balanced Bust and Hips: Your bust and hips are usually around the same measurement, giving you a balanced look.
- Well-Defined Waist: One of the main features is a narrow waist that creates a noticeable curve.
- Proportionate Curves: Your curves are evenly distributed, which means your body looks proportional from top to bottom.
These features make the hourglass figure look feminine and attractive. It’s often considered to be the ideal in fashion. Looking good won’t be difficult for you because you’ve got a great shape – you just have to find the right dress to accentuate it to its fullest. The goal is to highlight your balanced bust and hips while making sure your waistline is the star of the show.
Challenges and Advantages of Dressing an Hourglass Shape
Like with any shape, dressing an hourglass figure comes with its own of challenges and advantages:
Challenges:
Finding the right fit for both your bust and your hips can be tricky, as clothes aren’t usually made specifically for the hourglass figure. Sometimes you’ll find a dress that fits your bust might be too loose on the hips, or vice versa.
Certain clothing styles can add unwanted bulk, making your balanced proportions look off. You can easily get by with form fitting clothes with an hourglass figure so why not show it off!
Advantages:
You can pull off just about any style you want with a figure like yours! From wrap dresses to fit-and-flare designs, you’re lucky that most things will look good. Because you’ve got natural curves, you can flaunt form-fitting dresses or high-waisted skirts effortlessly.
With waist definition, belts and cinched waists look fantastic on you, emphasizing your tiny waist!
Honestly, you don’t have many challenges when it comes to finding a style that will look good on you, so lets move on to what kind of dress styles will look best on you.
Best Dress Styles for Hourglass Figures
If you’ve got it, flaunt it! Choosing the right dress style can make a world of difference for an hourglass figure. It’s not hard to find something that will look good on your figure though.
Here are some of the top choices that will enhance your curves and make you feel fabulous.
Wrap Dresses
Wrap dresses are a perfect match for anyone looking for the best dress styles hourglass figures. The design enhances the waistline and balances the bust and hips. This creates a harmonious look. The wrap-around style cinches at the waist, drawing attention to your naturally small waist. This style is both flattering and comfortable to wear.
Fit and Flare Dresses
Fit and flare dresses are another great option. These dresses are fitted at the top and flare out at the waist. This style highlights the narrowness of your waist and also balance out your figure. The flare at the bottom adds a playful touch and skims over your hips. Comfort and style all in one!
Bodycon Dresses
For those who want to show off their curves, bodycon dresses are the way to go. These dresses hug your body, accentuating every curve from your bust to your hips. They are often made from stretchy materials so they’ll be tight, but comfortable.
A-Line Dresses
If you want a classic choice for your hourglass figure why not try an a-line dress|? This style skims over the hips and emphasizes the waist. It can be a very flattering fit. The A-line shape creates a slight flare. This balances the hips and is comfortable to wear. A-line dresses are super versatile. Got a casual event? You’ll find an a-line skirt to suit. Looking for something a bit more formal? A-line can also fit the bill.
Sheath Dresses
Looking for something a bit sleek and sophisticated? A sheath dress is nicely fitted around the waist and hips, but falls straight down to the hem. It’s close cut will show off your natural curves, and it will give a streamlined, elegant appearance. Perfect for any professional setting, or any time you need a polished look that will impress.
Any of these dresses would be perfect for the hourglass figure and will show off your curves beautifully. You get comfort and style in one, and you can feel confident that you look great.
Tips for Accessorizing Dresses for Hourglass Figures
A cute accessory can always help to level up any outfit and add that extra little bit of personality to it.
Belts
Belts aren’t for everyone (especially if you’ve got a bit of a belly!), but they’re definitely a great addition for someone with an hourglass figure. They draw attention to the small waist and enhance the shape even more.
Wide belts stand out and provide a clear separation between your bust and hips. Thin belts are a bit more subtle, but they can still offer some waist definition without overpowering the outfit. If your dress is already quite detailed then a thin belt works best here. A belt should be a contrasting color to your dress – this will add a pop of color and help to highlight your waistline.
Jewelry
Some jewelry is always a great way to put the finishing touch to any outfit or add some glam. Statement necklaces draw attention to your face and neckline and brighten up your outfit creating a bold look. Dangling earrings are great to add a bit of elegance and sophistication. Layered necklaces (multiple necklaces at different lengths) can also add some interest to your outfit and direct attention to your bust and collarbone areas.
Shoes
Who can forget the most important part of any outfit, your shoes! The right pair of shoes can pull your entire outfit together and make it look polished and ready to impress.
We all know that heels add height and can give the illusion that legs are longer than they are. Choose a pair of pointed toe heels or a pair in nude or skin tone color and they will elongate your leg line even more. Ankle boots are for a more edgy outfit while also adding to your height.
Conclusion
Get your dress shape and your accessories right and you’ll be the envy of all around you! Remember, owning an hourglass figure is a gift! By embracing your natural curves and following these tips to find the best dress styles for hourglass figures, you can highlight your silhouette and great in everything you wear. Express yourself, experiment and have fun with your wardrobe.