Bottom Hourglass Body Shape: Guide for Hip-Heavy Hourglass Figures
The bottom hourglass is a variation where the hips are slightly larger than the bust while maintaining the signature defined waist. Learn how to style this beautiful shape.
What Is the Bottom Hourglass Body Shape?
The bottom hourglass is a variation of the classic hourglass where the lower body carries slightly more visual weight. The key characteristics are:
Bottom Hourglass Characteristics
Hips slightly larger than bust (1-3 inches difference)
Defined waist at least 25% smaller than hips
Shoulders may be slightly narrower than hip line
Overall hourglass silhouette maintained
Bottom Hourglass vs Classic Hourglass vs Pear
Classic Hourglass
Bust = Hips (within 5%), defined waist
Example: 36-26-36
Bottom Hourglass
Hips slightly > Bust (5-10%), defined waist
Example: 35-26-38
Pear/Triangle
Hips significantly > Bust (10%+), varying waist definition
Example: 34-28-40
Styling Goals for Bottom Hourglass
The styling goal for bottom hourglass is to balance the fuller hips with the upper body while emphasizing your defined waist:
Styling Strategy
Define your waist to showcase your hourglass shape
Add visual weight to upper body with structured shoulders, details
Choose bottoms that skim rather than cling to hips
Best Tops for Bottom Hourglass
Best Choices
- • Boat necks (excellent)
- • Off-shoulder styles
- • Square necklines
- • Structured shoulders
- • Puff sleeves
- • Horizontal stripes on top
- • Statement necklaces
- • Light colors on top
Avoid
- • Very fitted tops without structure
- • Thin spaghetti straps
- • Halter necks that narrow shoulders
- • Dark tops with light bottoms
Best Bottoms for Bottom Hourglass
Best Choices
- • High-waisted styles
- • A-line skirts
- • Straight-leg pants
- • Dark, solid colors
- • Bootcut jeans
- • Wide-leg trousers
- • Smooth fabrics
Be Careful With
- • Very tight pencil skirts
- • Horizontal stripes at hips
- • Pocket details on hips
- • Light-colored bottoms with dark tops
- • Pleats at hip level
Best Dresses for Bottom Hourglass
Fit and Flare
Defines waist and skims over hips with gentle flare.
Wrap Dress
Cinches waist and creates balanced silhouette.
A-Line Dress
Fitted bodice with flare skims hips gracefully.
Empire Waist (modified)
Can work if it still shows your natural waist definition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bottom hourglass body shape?
A bottom hourglass body shape is a variation of the classic hourglass where the hips are slightly larger than the bust, while still maintaining a defined waist. The hips may be 1-3 inches larger than the bust.
Is bottom hourglass the same as pear shape?
No. Bottom hourglass still has relatively balanced proportions with a prominently defined waist. Pear shapes have significantly larger hips compared to bust (more than 10% difference) and may have less waist definition.
How do I know if I have a bottom hourglass shape?
You have a bottom hourglass if your hips are slightly larger than your bust (but within about 5-10%), you have a defined waist at least 25% smaller than your hips, and your overall silhouette still looks balanced.
How should bottom hourglass figures dress?
Bottom hourglass figures should define the waist, add visual interest to the upper body to balance hips, and choose bottoms that skim rather than cling. Structured shoulders, statement necklaces, and boat necks can help balance proportions.
What necklines are best for bottom hourglass?
Boat necks, square necks, and off-shoulder styles work well for bottom hourglass as they widen the shoulder line to balance fuller hips. V-necks also work well for defining the waist.