How to Tell If You Have an Hourglass Figure

The hourglass figure is aptly named.

Only about 8 percent of American women have a true hourglass figure, reports a study by North Carolina State University, yet this body shape, flaunted by movie bombshells, like Sophia Loren and Marilyn Monroe, is regarded by many as the most attractive body type. This attraction to the hourglass figure has roots in science. A study done in "New Scientist" magazine by David Concar reveals that human symmetry, like the hourglass figure, is attractive to men from across cultures because it subconsciously signals good health and genes. Do you have hips and curves that project strong genetic features? All it takes is a few measurements to find out if you have an hourglass figure.

Things You'll Need

• Cloth measuring tape

Instructions

1. Measure the widest part of your chest, which should be directly across the nipples.

2. Measure the smallest part of your natural waist, which should be below your lowest rib and above your belly button.

3. Measure the widest part of your hips.

4. Write down these measurements.

5. Your hip measurements and bust measurements should be the same size within a few inches of each other.

6. Your waist measurement should be at least 9 inches smaller than your bust measurements.

7. If you have these measurements, you have an hourglass figure.

Tips & Warnings

• An example of an hourglass figure is 36-24-36 (standing for 36 inches bust, 24 inches waist, 36 inches hips). Women with hourglass figures usually also have a shapely bust and legs. You can fake an hourglass figure by cinching in your waist with a corset or waist cincher.

References

• Style Makeover HQ; What's Your Body Shape?; Jane Liddelow
• "The Independent"; The Shape of Things to Wear; Helen McCormack; November 2005
• Emporia State University; Secrets of Attraction; Sara E. Hirt and Mika Czirr
• Look Fabulous: Hourglass-Shaped Body