If you have an hourglass figure, you’re quite lucky. Your body is naturally balanced with a defined waist, and your curves are in all the right places. However, not all hourglass figures are the same. Some women have a delicate hourglass figure, while others have a ripe hourglass figure.
Understanding the difference between a delicate hourglass figure and a ripe hourglass figure is important when it comes to dressing for your body type. Depending on which type of hourglass figure you have, certain styles and cuts may be more flattering for you than others. Keep reading to learn more about the differences between these two types of hourglass figures and how to dress for each.
Understanding the Different Hourglass Figures
According to the Kibbe Body Type Test, there are two types of hourglass figures: delicate hourglass and ripe hourglass.
A delicate hourglass figure is characterized by a small bone structure and a soft, rounded flesh. If you have this body type, your bust and hips are nearly equal in size, and your waist is significantly smaller. Your shoulders are also likely to be narrow, and your arms and legs are slender. This type of hourglass figure is often referred to as a “petite hourglass.”
On the other hand, a ripe hourglass figure has a larger bone structure and a more pronounced flesh. If you have this body type, your bust and hips are also nearly equal in size, but your waist is less defined. Your shoulders are likely to be broad, and your arms and legs are more muscular. This type of hourglass figure is often referred to as a “full hourglass.”
Knowing your hourglass figure type can help you choose the right clothes that flatter your body shape. For example, if you have a delicate hourglass figure, you may want to wear clothes that create the illusion of curves. This can be achieved by wearing clothes that add volume to your bust and hips, such as padded bras and A-line skirts.
If you have a ripe hourglass figure, you may want to wear clothes that accentuate your curves. This can be achieved by wearing clothes that hug your body, such as bodycon dresses and high-waisted pants. You can also wear belts to define your waistline and create a more hourglass shape.
Delicate Hourglass Figure
If you have a delicate hourglass figure, you have a small frame with a defined waist and full hips and bust. Your shoulders are narrower than your hips, and you have a balanced and proportional silhouette. Your curves are subtle and understated, and you may have a slighter build than those with a ripe hourglass figure.
Fashion Tips for Delicate Hourglass Figures
When dressing a delicate hourglass figure, the goal is to highlight your curves without overwhelming your small frame. Here are some fashion tips to keep in mind:
- Choose clothing that fits well and accentuates your waist. Avoid baggy or oversized clothing that hides your figure.
- Wear tops and dresses with a defined waistline to enhance your hourglass shape. A cinched waist or a belt can also help create the illusion of curves.
- Opt for fitted jackets and blazers to balance your proportions and highlight your waist.
- Choose bottoms that flatter your figure, such as high-waisted pants, A-line skirts, and pencil skirts.
- Avoid overly busy patterns or large prints that can overwhelm your delicate frame. Instead, opt for smaller prints or solid colors.
- Wear heels to elongate your legs and create a more proportionate silhouette.
Clothing Suggestions for Delicate Hourglass Figures
If you have a delicate hourglass figure, you want to accentuate your curves without overwhelming them. Opt for fitted clothing that skims your body and highlights your waist. Here are some clothing options that work well:
- A-line skirts
- Wrap dresses
- High-waisted pants
- Belted jackets
When it comes to tops, choose styles that draw attention to your waist. Peplum tops, fitted blouses, and wrap tops are all great options. Avoid boxy or shapeless tops that will hide your curves.
Ripe Hourglass Figure
If you have a ripe hourglass figure, you have a curvier body type with a very shapely bustline, a narrow waist and full hips. Your curves are more abundant and rounded compared to a delicate hourglass figure. Your body is soft and lushly curved, giving you a very feminine and sensual look.
Fashion Tips for Ripe Hourglass Figures
When it comes to dressing a ripe hourglass figure, the goal is to accentuate your curves while still keeping a balanced look. Here are some fashion tips to help you achieve that:
- Wear fitted tops that show off your bustline and waist.
- Choose dresses that have a defined waistline and a flared skirt to balance out your curves.
- Wear high-waisted pants and skirts to accentuate your waistline.
- Avoid baggy or shapeless clothing that hides your curves.
- Use belts to cinch in your waist and create an hourglass silhouette.
- Wear V-neck and scoop neck tops to show off your bustline.
- Avoid tops with high necklines that can make your bustline look too big.
- Choose fabrics that drape well over your curves, such as silk, satin, and jersey.
- Avoid stiff fabrics that don’t move with your body and can make you look boxy.
Clothing Suggestions for Ripe Hourglass Figures
If you have a ripe hourglass figure, you want to balance your curves and create a defined waistline. Look for clothing that highlights your curves without adding bulk. Here are some clothing options that work well:
- Pencil skirts
- Bodycon dresses
- Bootcut pants
- Fitted blazers
When it comes to tops, choose styles that create a V-neckline or scoop neck. This will draw attention to your bust and balance your curves. Avoid tops that add bulk or hide your waistline.
Common Clothing Mistakes
When dressing an hourglass figure, there are a few common mistakes to avoid—regardless of whether you fall into the delicate or ripe category. These include:
- Wearing baggy or shapeless clothing
- Choosing clothing that adds bulk to your figure
- Skipping the belt to define your waistline
- Wearing clothing that doesn’t fit properly
Maintaining Your Hourglass Figure
To maintain your hourglass figure, it’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine. Incorporating cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming can help you burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. Strength training exercises such as squats, lunges, and weight lifting can help you build and tone your muscles.
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help you maintain your figure. Avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of alcohol can also help you maintain a healthy weight.
Body Shaping and Contouring Options
If you’re looking for more drastic ways to enhance your hourglass figure, there are several body shaping and contouring options available. Waist trainers and corsets can help cinch your waist and accentuate your curves. Butt lifting exercises or padded undergarments can help enhance your curves in the lower body.
For those looking for more permanent options, liposuction, fat transfer, and breast augmentation can help enhance your curves. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any surgical procedures.
Self-Care and Confidence Boosting Tips
Remember that your hourglass figure is beautiful and unique. It’s important to practice self-care and confidence boosting techniques to maintain a positive body image. Surround yourself with positive influences and avoid comparing yourself to others.
Practicing self-love and self-acceptance can help boost your confidence and maintain a healthy body image. Take time for yourself to relax and unwind, and engage in activities that make you feel good about yourself.