Slim Hourglass Body: Complete Guide for Slender Hourglass Figures
The slim hourglass combines the classic hourglass proportions with a leaner frame. Learn how to identify this body shape and dress to enhance your natural curves.
Do You Have a Slim Hourglass Body?
Our free calculator analyzes your measurements to determine your exact body shape.
What Is a Slim Hourglass Body Shape?
A slim hourglass body shape shares all the defining characteristics of the classic hourglass figure but on a leaner, more slender frame. The key proportions remain the same:
Slim Hourglass Characteristics
Balanced bust and hips within 5% of each other
Defined waist at least 25% smaller than bust/hips
Lean overall frame with less body mass
Waist-to-hip ratio of 0.7 or lower
Slim Hourglass Measurements Examples
Body shape is about proportions, not specific numbers. Here are examples of slim hourglass measurements:
| Bust | Waist | Hips | WHR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32" | 23" | 32" | 0.72 |
| 33" | 24" | 34" | 0.71 |
| 34" | 25" | 35" | 0.71 |
| 35" | 26" | 35" | 0.74 |
How to Dress a Slim Hourglass Body
The key to dressing a slim hourglass figure is maintaining your natural balance while defining your waist. Since you have a leaner frame, you can experiment with both fitted and slightly looser styles.
Best Choices
- • Wrap dresses and tops
- • High-waisted pants and skirts
- • Belted dresses and coats
- • Fitted blazers at the waist
- • Pencil skirts
- • V-necklines and scoop necks
- • Bodycon dresses
- • A-line skirts
Styles to Avoid
- • Oversized, shapeless clothing
- • Empire waistlines
- • Boxy cuts that hide curves
- • Drop-waist styles
- • Very stiff, structured fabrics
- • Straight-cut shift dresses
Slim Hourglass vs Other Body Types
Understanding the difference between slim hourglass and similar body types helps you dress more effectively:
Slim Hourglass
Balanced bust/hips, defined waist, lean frame
Example: 33-24-33
Slim Rectangle
Similar measurements throughout, less waist definition
Example: 33-31-33
Full Hourglass
Same proportions, larger overall measurements
Example: 40-30-40
How Rare Is a Slim Hourglass Figure?
According to the NC State University SizeUSA study, only about 8% of women have a true hourglass figure. The slim hourglass is even rarer, as it requires both hourglass proportions and a naturally lean body composition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a slim hourglass body shape?
A slim hourglass body shape has the same proportions as a classic hourglass (balanced bust and hips with a defined waist at least 25% smaller) but with a leaner, more slender overall frame. The waist-to-hip ratio remains around 0.7 or lower.
Can you have an hourglass figure and be slim?
Yes, absolutely. Hourglass is determined by proportions, not size. A slim hourglass might have measurements like 32-24-32 or 34-25-34, maintaining the characteristic balanced bust-hip ratio with a significantly smaller waist.
How do I know if I have a slim hourglass body?
You have a slim hourglass if your bust and hips are within 5% of each other, your waist is at least 25% smaller than both, and you have a leaner overall body composition. Use our body shape calculator to confirm your exact shape.
What clothes look best on a slim hourglass figure?
Slim hourglass figures look great in fitted clothing that follows natural curves: wrap dresses, high-waisted pants, pencil skirts, and belted styles. The key is emphasizing the waist while maintaining the balanced silhouette.
Is slim hourglass the same as skinny hourglass?
Yes, slim hourglass and skinny hourglass refer to the same body type: an hourglass shape with a leaner frame. Both terms describe someone with balanced bust/hip proportions and a defined waist on a slender body.