Hourglass Figure Sizes: Body Shape at Every Size
Hourglass figures come in every size. Learn how this body shape looks across different sizes and get styling tips for your specific measurements.
Hourglass at Every Size
Body shape is about proportions, not specific sizes. The same hourglass shape can exist across the entire size spectrum:
| Size Range | Bust | Waist | Hips | WHR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS (0-2) | 31-33" | 22-24" | 32-34" | ~0.70 |
| S (4-6) | 34-36" | 25-27" | 35-37" | ~0.72 |
| M (8-10) | 37-39" | 28-30" | 38-40" | ~0.73 |
| L (12-14) | 40-42" | 31-33" | 41-43" | ~0.74 |
| XL (16-18) | 43-45" | 34-36" | 44-46" | ~0.75 |
| 2XL (20-22) | 46-48" | 37-39" | 47-49" | ~0.75 |
| 3XL+ (24+) | 50+" | 40+" | 51+" | ~0.75 |
Notice how the waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) remains similar across all sizes—this is what makes them all hourglass shapes.
Styling by Size Category
Petite Hourglass (XS-S)
Focus on proportion and elongation while defining waist.
Best choices:
- • High-waisted everything
- • Vertical details
- • V-necklines
- • Fitted silhouettes
Avoid:
- • Overwhelming prints
- • Very long hemlines
- • Heavy fabrics
Medium Hourglass (M-L)
Most styles work well—focus on waist definition.
Best choices:
- • Wrap dresses and tops
- • Belted styles
- • Pencil skirts
- • Fitted blazers
Avoid:
- • Shapeless clothing
- • Empire waists
- • Boxy cuts
Plus Size Hourglass (XL+)
Embrace your curves with structured, fitted pieces.
Best choices:
- • Structured fabrics
- • Wrap styles
- • Defined waistlines
- • Supportive undergarments
Avoid:
- • Oversized hiding clothes
- • Thin, clingy fabrics alone
- • Horizontal stripes at waist
Common Fit Challenges by Size
Solutions for All Sizes
Gap at waistband
Common across all sizes. Look for curvy-fit jeans or have waistbands tailored.
Shirts gaping at bust
Choose stretch fabrics, princess seaming, or wear a camisole underneath.
Dresses tight at bust/hips, loose at waist
Size up and belt, or choose wrap styles that adjust to your shape.
Finding the right bra
Professional bra fitting is valuable at any size. Well-fitted undergarments improve all clothing fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you have an hourglass figure at any size?
Yes! Hourglass is determined by proportions, not size. A size 4 with 34-25-34 has hourglass proportions, just like a size 18 with 44-33-44. The key is the relationship between bust, waist, and hips, not the actual numbers.
What size is an hourglass figure?
Hourglass figures exist in every size from XS to 4XL and beyond. The body shape is defined by proportions (bust ≈ hips, waist 25%+ smaller), not by specific measurements or clothing sizes.
Do hourglass figures vary by height?
Yes, you can be petite hourglass (under 5'4"), average height hourglass, or tall hourglass. Height affects your overall proportions and styling needs but does not change whether you have an hourglass shape.
Is plus size hourglass different from regular hourglass?
Plus size hourglass has the same proportional relationships as smaller hourglass figures. The bust and hips remain balanced, and the waist is proportionally smaller. Only the actual measurements differ.
What measurements make a plus size hourglass?
Plus size hourglass typically has measurements like 44-33-44, 46-35-46, or 48-36-48. The key is maintaining the hourglass ratio: bust ≈ hips with waist at least 25% smaller than both.