Hourglass Bodies: Everything About Hourglass Body Shapes
Hourglass bodies are admired for their balanced curves. Learn about the different types and how to style this body shape.
What Defines Hourglass Bodies?
Hourglass bodies share specific proportional characteristics that create their signature curved silhouette:
Hourglass Body Characteristics
Bust and hips balanced within 5%
Waist at least 25% smaller than bust/hips
WHR around 0.7
Shoulders align with hip width
Types of Hourglass Bodies
Classic Hourglass
Perfectly balanced bust and hips with a pronounced waist definition. The most symmetrical version of the hourglass shape.
Top Hourglass
Bust measurement is slightly larger than hips, but still maintains a significantly defined waist.
Bottom Hourglass
Hips are slightly larger than bust, with the characteristic defined waist creating curves.
How Common Are Hourglass Bodies?
of women have hourglass bodies
Source: NC State University SizeUSA Study
Styling Hourglass Bodies
Best Styles
- • Wrap dresses and tops
- • High-waisted bottoms
- • Belted styles
- • V-necklines
- • Pencil skirts
- • Bodycon dresses
- • Fit-and-flare silhouettes
Avoid
- • Shapeless, boxy clothing
- • Empire waistlines
- • Drop waist styles
- • Oversized everything
- • Shift dresses
- • Stiff fabrics
Frequently Asked Questions
What are hourglass bodies?
Hourglass bodies are body shapes characterized by balanced bust and hip measurements with a significantly smaller waist. This creates a curved silhouette that resembles an hourglass shape.
Are there different types of hourglass bodies?
Yes, there are variations including classic hourglass (perfectly balanced), top hourglass (slightly larger bust), and bottom hourglass (slightly larger hips). All maintain the defined waist characteristic.
How rare are hourglass bodies?
Hourglass bodies are relatively rare, with only about 8% of women having this body shape according to the NC State University SizeUSA study.
What should hourglass bodies wear?
Hourglass bodies look best in clothing that defines the waist and follows natural curves: wrap dresses, high-waisted pants, belted styles, V-necklines, and fitted silhouettes.
Can hourglass bodies be any size?
Yes, hourglass bodies can be any size. Body shape is about proportions, not weight. Whether slim or curvy, the key characteristic is balanced bust/hips with a defined waist.