How to Dress An Hourglass Body

Dressing to flatter an hourglass figure can be kind of tricky. The wrong skirt can make you look too big in the hips, and the wrong shirt can throw your whole outfit out of balance. However, if you know what to look for when you shop for clothes, you can easily find clothes that will help you look your best.

Instructions

1. Look for tops that have necklines that elongate your body, such as V-necks and U-necks, and avoid any shirts that are baggy. Blouses that nip in at the waist, such as wrap tops, look great on an hourglass figure. Halter styles are also flattering, as they show off your broad shoulders.

2. Avoid skinny jeans and anything with a tapered leg. This will make you look more pear-shaped than hourglass-shaped. Flared-leg or boot-cut pants work best for balancing out your top.

3. Choose dresses with a dipped neckline and that highlight your waist. Keep the top of the dress simple -- no ruffles. Avoid puffy skirts, which will make your hips look much larger than your upper body. Choose fabrics and styles that skim over your body. Your goal is to define your shape, not hide it. Knee-length dresses and dresses that cinch at the waist work best.

References

• "What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life: Ageless Secrets of Style"; Kim Johnson Gross; 2010