One of the themes we hear most frequently from our clients is how difficult it can be to find clothes that fit—and we mean really fit. We all want clothes that highlight and amplify our best features, and a great fit can boost our confidence as we step out into the world. And, if you’re someone with an hourglass body shape, sometimes this journey can be all the more challenging.
Thankfully, our team of Stitch Fix Stylists is armed with years of experience styling clients with every body type under the sun. They’re experts on helping you find outfits that are perfect for an hourglass body, and will be with you every step of the way on your hunt for those stylish pieces that make you look and feel your best.
Often described as “curvy,” the hourglass figure is so called because of the proportions that mimic the time-keeping tool of yore. Generally, shoulders and hips are roughly the same measurements, and the waist is well defined.
Of course, every body is truly unique—this general definition is simply a starting point as we explore styling techniques for hourglass figures. (Spoiler alert: visual balance is key, so you’re going to hear about that a lot here.)
So, let’s break it down! Here, our Stylists’ top 5 tips for how to dress an hourglass figure.
(P.S.: Still not entirely sure what your body shape actually is? Take our body shape quiz!)
1.PRO TIP: First things first—highlight your waist
REACH FOR: Belted dresses, high-waisted bottoms, tees that hug
Long-gone are the days—thankfully—where women were expected to camouflage, conceal or otherwise hide their bodies. What were formerly considered flaws by society at large are now elements of empowerment—if you’ve got it, flaunt it. As such, our Stylists say that the most important thing to remember when dressing your hourglass figure is balance.
Since your body shape is already proportioned relatively evenly, you can ensure that your outfit highlights that natural balance by drawing attention to your waist. Easy pieces to achieve this include belted styles, high-waisted bottoms and tops that hug your shape just right.
We can’t say it enough: dressing your hourglass figure is not about flattery—after all, when you’re already perfect as you are, there’s nothing to improve upon. It’s just about flaunting what you’ve got.
“High-waisted bottoms, wrap dresses and tailored blazers that nip in at the waist create a visually balanced silhouette.” –Michelle, Stylist
2. PRO TIP: Choose fitted, structured pieces
REACH FOR: Pencil skirts, tailored blazers, wrap dresses
Another antiquated rule from the past is that if you have a curvier shape, you shouldn’t wear fitted clothes. False! Our Stylists say: the more fitted, the better. Structured pieces that fit well and skim your curves draw attention to your balanced proportions.
One of our favorite combos: a figure-skimming pencil skirt and fitted blouse topped with a perfectly tailored blazer and a pair of power heels—a look that’ll have your confidence soaring and the compliments rolling in. Another key piece we love: The wrap dress. Infinitely adjustable and effortlessly elegant, it’s a must-have hourglass figure outfit.
“Fitted, structured clothes that gently skim your curves highlight your balanced proportions.” –Michelle, Stylist
3. PRO TIP: It’s all about balance between your upper and lower body
REACH FOR: Bootcut jeans, A-line skirts, boho blouses
As with so many things in life, hourglass figure dressing is all about balance. If you opt for a blouse with more flounce on top, you’ll want less volume on bottom. For example, the flowy floral blouse and silk blazer combo shown here is visually balanced by the curve-hugging effect of these straight-leg jeans. (Likewise, if you’re going for a ruffled maxi skirt on bottom, a more fitted top, or even a bodysuit, is ideal.)
“Choose outfits that maintain balance between your upper and lower body, creating a harmonious look that complements your figure without overpowering it.” –Michelle, Stylist
4. PRO TIP: You want necklines that elongate your torso and frame your face
REACH FOR: Scoop necks, V-necks, sweetheart shapes
Oh, the power of a great neckline. When it comes to how to dress an hourglass figure, this seemingly small sartorial detail packs a quietly strong punch. In fact, this single element can transform your entire look. Generally, our Stylists reach for deeper necklines like scoop necks and V-necks—necklines that frame your face, elongate your torso and emphasize your bust (if that’s your thing).
Whether you prefer a little or a lot of neckline plunge, the wide variety out there makes it easy to find a shape to match your personal comfort level. Any questions—ask your Stylist! They’re always there for you.
“Deeper necklines like scoop and V-necks elongate your torso and help draw attention upward, to your face. It’s a little counterintuitive, but it works.” –Michelle, Stylist
5. PRO TIP: Don’t let fit challenges get in your way
REACH FOR: Pieces that enhance your shape—not hide it
When you have the enviable proportions of an hourglass shape, a flawless fit can sometimes be a challenge. Specifically, many pieces fit perfectly in certain places and not at all in others.
Here, our Stylists identify the 4 most common fit challenges faced by their hourglass-shaped clients, with advice on how best to handle them.
Challenge #1: Pants fit in your hips and thighs but gap at the waist
Style strategy: Look for high-waisted pants with stretch, bottoms that can be belted or adjustable waistbands.
Challenge #2: Tops fit in the bust but are too loose at the waist
Style strategy: Look for tops in performance (stretch!) fabrics or tailored cuts such as fitted, peplum or wrap tops that follow your curves.
Challenge #3: Button-up tops pull and gap in the bust area
Style strategy: Look for button-ups in stretch fabrics and with tapered waists for an optimal fit. You can also use pins or fabric tape to secure gaps from the inside of the garment (just add a bit of tape in between each button). Another option is to try one size larger, then tuck the shirt into high-waisted bottoms—you’ll get the room you need in the bust, with the waist definition you want.
Challenge #4: Dresses look boxy and hide your shape
Style strategy: Avoid shapeless shifts and opt for dress styles that, you guessed it, define your waist! Namely, figure-skimming wrap dresses, dresses with belts and ties or fit-and-flare dresses.
“With some simple style strategy, you can overcome most fit challenges.” –Michelle, Stylist
Ready for Stitch Fix to make dressing for your hourglass shape easier than ever? Take your style quiz, order a Fix and let your Stylist do the work for you. They’ll choose just-for-you pieces to save you time (and a trip to the mall). Keep what works, and return the rest—or keep 5+ pieces and get 25% off your entire order. Shipping and returns are always free—no subscription required. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.
