Figure Hourglass: Complete Style Guide for Hourglass Figures
The hourglass figure is characterized by balanced bust and hip measurements with a defined waist. This guide covers everything about this body shape.
Understanding the Hourglass Figure
The hourglass figure gets its name from its resemblance to an hourglass—wider at the top and bottom with a narrow middle. This body shape is defined by:
Hourglass Figure Definition
Bust and hips nearly equal (within 5%)
Waist significantly smaller (25%+ difference)
Waist-to-hip ratio around 0.7
Balanced shoulders and hips
Hourglass Figure Examples
The hourglass figure exists at every size. Here are example measurements:
| Size | Bust | Waist | Hips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 34" | 24" | 34" |
| Medium | 36" | 26" | 36" |
| Large | 40" | 30" | 40" |
| Plus | 46" | 35" | 46" |
How Rare Is the Hourglass Figure?
Despite being frequently portrayed in media, the hourglass figure is actually quite rare:
Body Shape Distribution
Source: NC State University SizeUSA Study
Styling the Hourglass Figure
The key to styling an hourglass figure is highlighting your natural waist while maintaining balance:
Best Styles
- • Wrap dresses and tops
- • High-waisted bottoms
- • Belted styles
- • V-necklines
- • Pencil skirts
- • Fit-and-flare dresses
- • Fitted blazers
- • Bodycon dresses
Avoid
- • Shapeless, boxy clothing
- • Empire waistlines
- • Drop waist styles
- • Oversized everything
- • Shift dresses
- • Stiff fabrics
- • Very high necklines
Famous Hourglass Figures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a figure hourglass?
A figure hourglass (or hourglass figure) is a body shape where the bust and hip measurements are approximately equal, with a significantly smaller waist. This creates an "X" silhouette resembling an hourglass.
How do I know if I have a hourglass figure?
You have an hourglass figure if your bust and hips are within 5% of each other, your waist is at least 25% smaller than both, and your waist-to-hip ratio is around 0.7. Use our calculator to confirm.
What percentage of people have an hourglass figure?
According to the NC State University SizeUSA study, approximately 8% of women have an hourglass figure. This makes it one of the rarer body shapes despite being frequently portrayed in media.
What should hourglass figures wear?
Hourglass figures should wear clothing that defines the waist and follows natural curves: wrap dresses, high-waisted bottoms, belted styles, V-necklines, and fitted silhouettes work well. Avoid boxy, shapeless clothing.
Can men have an hourglass figure?
While the hourglass figure is typically discussed in relation to women, men can have similar proportional relationships. However, body shape classifications were primarily developed based on female body data.