Q&A for How to Dress if You've Got an Hourglass Figure

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What clothes should I wear if I have an hourglass figure?

Alison Deyette
Professional Stylist
Alison Deyette is a Style Expert and TV Host with over 20 years of experience in fashion, style, and television. She has styled and directed photoshoots around the world for a variety of magazines, including Good Housekeeping, People StyleWatch, and Mode. Alison was also named one of the top stylists in Los Angeles by Variety magazine.

Alison Deyette

Professional Stylist

Expert Answer

Look for pants with angled diagonal pockets, and avoid on-seam straight pockets. On-seam straight pockets have a tendency to pull across the front of the body and create unflattering horizontal lines. You can also choose pocketless pants for a flattering fit.

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Question

What do I wear, as a teenager, to keep a modern style?

Community Answer

Try high waisted pants and skirts -- these are very in-style right now. Also, jackets as described here are usually pretty easy to find. Just put your own spin on these style techniques and you'll look fabulous!

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Question

How should I wear knee length pants that flow?

Community Answer

Try wearing them with simple nude color pumps without straps around the tops of the foot or ankle.

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Question

Are halter tops okay?

Community Answer

If they have wider straps, they might be okay. Try halter tops on in the store before purchasing to see if they flatter your figure or not.

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Question

Are asymmetrical tops flattering for an hourglass body?

Community Answer

Close-fitting knit tops with asymmetrical shirring or gathering at the waist look great. The shirring helps hide the tummy if the fabric is substantial enough and the top is not super tight.

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Question

How should I dress as a lawyer with an hourglass figure?

Community Answer

Dress with a button-up white or light grey blouse, preferably a sleeve length to match with the temperature of the workplace. Add a pair of black pants or a knee-length skirt. Accessorize with a black jacket and black heels.

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What are some good options for outdoor events where heels and skirts are inappropriate, but every pair of shorts I find are unflattering?

Community Answer

Try a pair of slim capris that stop right at the knee; anything longer will make your legs look short. Also, try a pair of sandals with a slight (2-3 inch) heel. This will accentuate your calf muscles and elongate your legs.

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Question

I am having an outdoor event at school and it will be weird wearing skirts and high heels. I feel like shorts are the best, but it was not mentioned in this article. Would that be a good option?

Community Answer

High-waisted shorts can work wonders when you can't wear a skirt but trousers are too formal, try some on in a shop with a pair of tights underneath and see what you think.

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Question

What could a hourglass-figured person wear on stage as a dancer?

Community Answer

If you get to choose your outfits, try wearing leotards with longer skirts. If you don't choose your outfits, try to talk with your teacher and find out what your options are.

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Question

Can I wear a turtleneck?

Community Answer

Yes. For the most flattering effect, wear a turtleneck shirt that fits snugly, made out of a knit fabric.

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Question

Should I get rid of my flowy shirts?

Community Answer

You don't have to. You can always wear a wide belt over your shirt, right at the waist. You can also tuck your shirt into the waistband of a skirt or a pair of high-waisted pants.

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Question

What styles would work well for a slightly curvy teenager with an hourglass figure?

Community Answer

Wear what is modest, but also fits your figure. Stretchy fabric is the best.

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Question

How can I stop my GG cup bust from looking matronly?

Community Answer

I have a HH cup bust, and have found that scoop necks do wonders! Make sure your bra fits properly.

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Question

I am not comfortable wearing shorts. Considering that, what can I wear to an outdoor festival?

Community Answer

You could wear those skirts with shorts sewn in under them so no one would see. Or you could wear pants that only come down to your knees, I have tried these and they work for me.

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Question

I have a slim hourglass shape, what do I wear?

Community Answer

Show it off with a fitted knit v-neck blouse, mid-rise skinny jeans and pumps. Add a one-button tailored jacket to dress it up.

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Question

I have broad shoulders and bulky calfs and when I wear skirts and dresses I sometimes look like a football player. How can I look more feminine?

Community Answer

I am not exactly dainty either. The trick is to find shapes and fabrics that work for you. Very delicate florals and ruffles may never look great on you. Look for more classic silhouettes, deep v-necks, and nipped in waists to accentuate your curves. You can't go wrong with pencil skirts and cardigans for a sexy secretary look.

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Question

How do I pick the right pair of jeans if I have an hourglass figure?

Community Answer

Go for a high waisted jean that accentuates your narrow waist, and avoid low rise jeans.

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Question

Can I wear flowy, loose fitting, baggy or long shirts?

Community Answer

You can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable!

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Question

How should I deal with my hip dip?

Community Answer

Hip dips are great! Just make sure that, if you are wearing leggings or tighter skirts, you don't wear underwear with elastics so tight they create those "extra bumps." Superstores and lingerie stores offer seamless underwear that still function regularly, but aren't too tight and don't show through tighter pants/skirts.

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Question

Can I wear a boho maxi skirt?

Community Answer

Yes, this is just a guide. If you like the way the maxi skirt looks on you, go ahead and wear it.

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Question

How should someone with an hourglass figure, but with a muffin top dress?

Community Answer

The hourglass is many women's ideal body shape, don't let a little extra fat discourage you. You can wear dresses which hug the waist and flare out. You could wear high-waisted voluminous skirts as well. Use accessories and focus on your fabulous curves and waist while dressing.

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Question

What Indian traditional dresses can I wear if I've got an hourglass figure?

Community Answer

You can try salwar kameez that zip at the back. Wearing sarees of solid color with detailed border will also be good. You can also don anarkali kurta with long sleeves and designed V neck. You can also try a dress with crop detailed top and long skirt.

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Question

What stores should I shop at if my personal fashion style is trendy and I have an hourglass figure?

Community Answer

You can really shop anywhere, but look for key items such as high waist pants and tight fitting tops.

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Question

I have an hourglass figure with a rather small bust compared with my bottom. How should I dress to accentuate my strengths?

Community Answer

You don't have an hourglass figure, you are pear shaped. Check out the article on How to Dress if You've Got a Pear Shaped Figure .

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Question

I have arthritis in my knees and can't wear heels. Any suggestions for an hourglass figure?

Community Answer

Color block, especially if you are short. Pants and shoes should be same color. Try tops that stop at the waist, and have one solid color from waist to floor with no skin or socks showing. This will visually lengthen your legs without having to wear heels.

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Question

What should a tall hourglass figure wear?

Community Answer

Anything you feel good in!

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Question

I want to show off my thin waist, but I don't want my broad upper body to look awkward. What can I do?

Community Answer

Wear wide belts. They will draw more attention to your waist than your bust.

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Question

What is a good top to pair with high waisted skinny jeans if I'll be attending a military reunion?

Community Answer

It really depends on your figure. You could wear a sweater, or a cute long sleeved fitted shirt.

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Question

How can I pull off wearing only a large shirt and no pants?

Community Answer

Make sure your shirt isn't too sheer to start with. To accent your figure, consider using a belt or ribbon tied around your waist.

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Question

What should I do if I want a more boyish look?

Community Answer

I would recommend loose jeans, casual t-shirts and a nice pair of sneakers/tennis shoes.

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