Kelly, of Kelly V. Photography, has once again put together a post filled with ideas to help you dress for your shape. This week she’s focusing those of you with an hourglass shape.
Thank you, Kelly!
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Time for another spotlight on how to dress each one of the four female body shapes! In the process, I’ll discuss what to look for when shopping, as well as what to avoid. The goal is to help you accentuate your best features when it comes to picking an outfit for your portrait session whether you’re a pear, apple, hourglass or rectangle.
I’ve already featured the pear shape, which you can find here, and the apple shape, which you can find here. Next up? Hourlass!
HOURGLASS SHAPE
Typically hourglass-shaped women have:
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Symmetrical shoulders and hips
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A full and shapely bust
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A distinctly defined waist
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Shapely legs
The world is your closet
If you have an hourglass figure, count your blessings! The hourglass is considered to be the ideal female shape. Since balance is always the goal, and you have it naturally, your overall figure is the easiest to dress because most things look great on you. But there are a few things you can do to accentuate your curves without adding bulk to your shoulders and hips.
Tops
Look for tops that accentuate your bust and waist such as V-necks, scoop necks and especially wraps. You can’t go wrong with almost any length, either. Fitted tops that sit at your waist, as well as those that are a little longer will all work to emphasize your curves. And halter tops are a great way to show off your shapely shoulders. Solids and patters are both equally flattering, but think simple and subtle if you want to appear slimmer. When selecting a jacket, you could opt for short or long — just be sure it’s fitted at the waist to show it off.
.jpg "tops for an hourglass shape")
Pants
Your ideal pants will be cut for larger hips and taper in at the waist. You can certainly pull off the “skinny jean” look, but for overall balance — particularly with timeless pieces like a pair of black dress pants — look for those that are slightly flared at the leg or even a wide leg. Mid-rise pants are the way to go, especially if you’re carrying a little extra weight in the tummy area. But, again, you have the body type that can pull off all of the latest looks whether it’s super low-rise or even high-waisted. So go for it and don’t be afraid to take a risk if you’re the trendy type!
.jpg "bottoms for an hourglass shape")
Skirts and dresses
Here’s where you can really play up your shapely silhouette! Choose skirts that hug your curves and give you a smooth fit at the waistline, such as a knee-length pencil skirt. You can also go bold with shorter options to show off those legs. For dresses, you’ll never go wrong with a wrap, fitted halters or even the strapless look. If you want something with a little flare, go with an A-line skirt or dress, just be sure that the top is fitted to balance it out.
.jpg "skirts for an hourglass shape")
Shoes
You have great legs, so show them off! For you, the sky is the limit, so feel free to experiment with wedges, straps, pointy toes, peep toes — you name it! And you’re one of the lucky girls who can pull off that sexy stiletto heel without looking off balance.
What to avoid
Stay away from anything that hides your beautiful curves and turns you into a shapeless line. Tops and bottoms that are too big and baggy will only make you look frumpy. You’ll also want to stay away from straight lines in almost anything including jackets, jeans and skirts. Avoid tops with big prints, ruffles or too many details around the bust area because it will make you look larger and throw off your natural proportions.
