• Your body is very proportionate and feminine with nearly equal hip and shoulder measurements and a well-defined waist.

• You have curvier, shapely thighs.

• You have slightly round shoulders.

• Weight gain tends to be distributed evenly between the upper and lower body.

This body shape is frequently referred to as X-shape. There is a simple way to tell that you are an hourglass without taking your measurements:

• You usually buy the same size of top and pants.

• Since you have a well-defined waist, your pants generally fit your hips but are too loose on your waist.

DO’s

• Follow the natural silhouette of your body, maintaining the body's naturally balanced proportions.

• Opt for simple, clean garments, which don't clutter up the silhouette.

• Steer clear of straight cuts and boxy styles, that hide the waist.

• Invest in good shapewear, bras, or general outfit support.

DON’Ts

• Avoid shapeless and loose clothing, as well as eye-catching embellishments.

• Boxy crop tops that make you appear wider.

• Pleats and gathering tends to over-emphasize your hips and creates a bottom-heavy look.

Must-Try Tops & Jackets

• Necklines shouldn’t unbalance the natural silhouette of the hourglass body by either visually widening the shoulder line or adding unnecessary volume. Choose low and slimming necklines such as V-necks, scoop, or square.

• The best type of sleeve is fitted. To draw less attention to your upper body, it's best to avoid embellishments and loose, wide sleeves.

• When shopping for tops, focus on finding ones that accentuate your waist and maintain the balanced look of your hourglass shape. Look for fitted shirts/tops with wrapped waists, belts, or tie details that flatter your figure.

• For jackets and coats, look for single-breasted styles that feature lots of vertical and princess seaming. Anything with a belt is also a bonus, and repositioning the belt to match your waist can make a big difference.

• Avoid straight and boxy styles as these do not show your waist and so make you appear heavier.

Must-Try Dresses & Skirts

Dresses are a great way to show off your hourglass shape, and an easy style staple to have in your closet. Fitted (but not tight) dresses can be perfect for enhancing your waist and showing off your curves. Consider styles like wrap dresses with a V-neck, soft prints, and solid colors. Soft fabrics will generally look better than rigid ones, so it's best to avoid anything made of a "spandex-like" material that might be too tight and not business-casual appropriate. Additionally, be sure to steer clear of boxy dresses that hide your waist and don't flatter your figure.

When it comes to skirts, you have the option to either play up or play down your curves. To accentuate your curves, opt for a pencil skirt. To downplay your curves, try a fuller skirt, such as a pleated version. If you choose to wear a fuller skirt, make sure to tuck in your top or pair it with a structured jacket to avoid a boxy silhouette.

It's best to avoid boxy and straight styles, as well as stiff fabrics that don't flatter your curves. Additionally, stay away from skirts with big, voluminous pockets, ruffles, darts, or other embellishments around the hips, unless you balance them out with details around the chest. Instead, opt for styles that flow and move with your body, such as A-line or wrap skirts.

Must-Try Bottoms

• Fit: Look for curvy-fit pants tailored for a smaller waist in proportion to your hips/rear. These pants eliminate the gap in the back and the pulling across the hips. Since not all brands carry cury fit options, consider alterations in the waist for a better fit. This is a simple fix that can make a big difference in how your pants fit and feel. If there is a tiny gap, you can also wear a belt to help cinch the waist. However, if the gap is significant, it's worth investing in tailoring to ensure a proper fit.

• Hourglasses can wear most pant styles, just be sure to focus on balancing the top and bottom. If you feel comfortable wearing skinnies, go for it. Try slim, straight-leg or bootcut pants instead of skinnies for less exposure.

• Don't be afraid to go for a high-waisted option. This rise can create the most proportionate outfits for your body type and can help to accentuate your waistline. Keep in mind that if you have wide hips, low-rise pants will accentuate this area and make them look wider than they are.

• Fabric: Opt for flowing and semi-structured fabrics.

• Colors: Darker colors conceal, and lighter colors draw attention to your legs.

My Secret Styling Tips & Tricks

If you're drawn to the current baggy and oversized look, you can still make it work for your hourglass figure by adding structure somewhere in your outfit. For example, you could try half-tucking your top, scrunching your sleeves, or rolling your pants. Alternatively, consider pairing a baggy top with fitted sleeves or a jacket with strong, defined shoulders to balance out the volume.

When it comes to accessories, be mindful of not overloading your outfit with too many large pieces. Your body already has a lot of natural curves, so too much extra bulk can be overwhelming. Avoid necklaces that end right at the bust line and scarves that add too much volume in that area.

Pointed stilettos can be a great choice for lengthening your silhouette and creating a longer vertical line. Nude pumps are particularly effective for this. Any shoe that helps you lengthen your vertical line will help balance out your curves (especially when wearing something extremely form-fitting).