Our final instalment in this series is the hourglass figures. Considered the most feminine shape, you’re blessed with curves but it can still be a struggle to find the right items to fit your curves. Here’s our guide to finding the best hourglass body shape outfits for your figure.
What are the characteristics of an hourglass body shape?
Most hourglass body shapes are wider at the top and bottom and narrow in at the waist. However, curvy figures aren’t always necessarily plus size and we should accommodate all curvy shapes, regardless of their size! Here are a few common features of those with an hourglass body shape:
- Bust and hip measurements very similar
- Defined waist
- Smaller shoulders
- Larger thighs
You might find that you don’t fit every single characteristic but you’re thereabouts. If not, why not check out our other body shape outfit guides for rectangle, pear, triangle and oval figures?
How to style an hourglass body shape
Many of our collections balance that mix of being practical and comfortable but also being feminine and classy. That means they’re perfect for curvy ladies who want pieces that will not only last for a long time but also be versatile enough to create their own capsule wardrobe. Here are six ways to style hourglass body shape outfits.
Show off that waist with high-waisted bottoms
Low-rise jeans might be making a comeback but they’re not the ideal jean shape for your figure. To show off that defined waist, a pair of high rise, dark wash slim leg or straight leg jeans will become your go-to jeans. You’ll find that they go with just about every kind of top too.
Pair your new skinny jeans with a polo shirt or rugby shirt for doing the school run in the morning or running errands on a Saturday morning. Add a waterproof jacket when it’s cooler and some canvas trainers to complete the look. Off for a night at the pub or the theatre? Choose a fitted country checked shirt to show off those curves. Finish with some heeled boots and a wax jacket and you’ve found your brand new, go-to smart-casual outfit.
Go for fitted, feminine pieces to show off your figure
When you have curves that so many other women would be jealous of, you should embrace your feminine figure by choosing pieces that fit it perfectly. Any wrap-style of top, dress or jacket will already come with a belt of some kind and will automatically cinch your waist in even more.
Our Milly belted jacket is a favourite amongst curvy women as it’s a traditional wax jacket but with all the feminine touches. The belt can be buckled or even knotted for a modern look and the length hits just on the hip line so you don’t have to worry about looking bulky around your hips.
Round and V necklines are your friend
If you have wider shoulders and a bust line that you love, why not accentuate that area with round and V necklines? Again, they’ll emphasise your feminine figure and flatter your shape. From scoop neck T-shirts to flowy V-neck blouses, you don’t have to opt for something super low cut if you’d prefer not to.
One of our favourite summertime styling tips is to use your usual country checked shirt as an outer layer and wear a simple tank top underneath it. It’s still feminine and classy but it’ll keep you cooler on warmer days. If you’d prefer to have your arms out, our V-neck sleeveless blouses are a gorgeous dressier top, ideal for summer barbecues and nights in the beer garden with friends and family.
Choose classic outerwear pieces
You’ll be thrilled to know that most coats and jackets have been modelled on a typical hourglass shape, meaning slightly wider shoulders and extra room around the hips. That means you have tons of choice in terms of style. We recommend sticking with classic fits, such as a tweed jacket, a wax jacket and a quilted jacket. Having one of each in your wardrobe in your favourite colour or pattern means that you’ll be set for every casual or dressy occasion.
You might want to add in a waterproof jacket because that British weather isn’t great, whether it’s summer or winter! Try to look for styles that have an internal drawstring waist or stretchy side panels, just to pull in that waist a little more.
Opt for smaller, subtle prints on top
Because of your shapely figure, you don’t want to seem too top-heavy, that’s why you should try to avoid larger prints or patterns on your top half. They look great on a wide leg pair of trousers with a plain top but don’t wear them on your top. Instead, go for smaller, ‘quieter’ prints and patterns on your top half.
All of our printed blouses and shirts have smaller prints so as to not overwhelm your outfit. We’ve kept with classic countryside patterns too, from pheasants to rabbits, and you can find them across our range of shirts and blouses.
Avoid adding volume around arms and hips
With your hourglass figure, you want to avoid adding bulk around your arms and hips areas. Ruffles and embellishments can still be worn but make sure they’re either around the bust or midriff area. Instead, you can go for patterns instead. Our ladies Bramham striped polo shirt features the stripes across the bust, accentuating the area. This is a great item to wear for everyday but also dressed up a little with heels and a tweed jacket. Alternatively, for an even bolder look, our Lily diagonal polo shirt is super striking. The diagonal panel runs from the waist on one side and across to the hip, again creating the illusion of a slim waist.
Hourglass body shape outfits might require a little bit of thought but you can definitely feel and look feminine and glamorous if you want to! Getting yourself a bunch of key pieces that fit you well and mix and match together will save you lots of time getting ready every morning too. We’d love to help you fill your wardrobe with high quality, countryside pieces so hopefully, these guides will help you to do just that.