A plus size hourglass has a built-in advantage: bust and hips in balance with a waist that's clearly smaller. The frustrating part is that most plus size clothing is cut straight, as if that waist didn't exist, so things either hang like a sack or strain across the hips. In my fittings the fix is almost always the same. Mark the waist, let fabric skim the curves rather than grip them, and fit the garment to the fullest point, then take in the rest. Below are my 25 outfit ideas for hourglass figure in plus sizes, each a full outfit for everyday life, work, weekends or a special event.
Closing the Gap at the Back of the Waistband
The most common fit problem I see on plus size hourglass clients is the gap at the back of trousers, jeans and skirts. Buy the size that fits your hips and thighs, and the waistband stands away from your back by an inch or more. Buy for the waist, and the hips strain. Clothing cut for a straighter figure assumes a smaller difference between waist and hip than you have.
- Look for curvy or contour fits, cut with more hip room for the same waist.
- Contoured, curved waistbands follow the back of the body better than straight ones.
- Stretch denim and ponte adapt; rigid denim and suiting don't.
- A tailor can take in the center-back seam of trousers and skirts, usually a quick and affordable job.
Belts hide a small gap but don't fix it; the waistband bunches under the belt. When I'm shopping with a client, I always fit the hips first and plan on a center-back alteration. It's a small extra cost that makes inexpensive trousers look made for you.
1. Plus Size Hourglass Wrap Dress Outfit
A wrap dress is the easiest win for a plus size hourglass, because the tie goes exactly where your waist is, not where a pattern guessed. Midi length in stretch jersey or soft crepe skims the hip. I'd choose a heavier jersey; thin jersey clings to the stomach and shows every line underneath. Check the overlap while sitting, since a wrap that's tight across the hips will pull open at the skirt. Pointed block heels, a crossbody that sits near the waist and small hoops finish it, and a cropped cardigan makes it fine for a business-casual office.
2. Plus Size Hourglass Pencil Skirt Outfit
A high-waisted pencil skirt shows off the curve from waist to hip more clearly than almost anything else. The fit point is the back waistband. On an hourglass, a skirt sized for the hips usually gaps at the back of the waist, so look for a contoured waistband or have a tailor take in the center-back seam. Just below the knee is the most flattering length. Tuck in a silky V-neck blouse, add a thin belt where blouse meets skirt, and finish with nude pumps and a leather tote. Swap the tote for a clutch after work.
3. Plus Size Hourglass Jumpsuit Outfit
Jumpsuits fail on curvy figures when the waist seam lands in the wrong place, so that's the first thing I check. A wrap bodice, a sewn waist seam or a self-tie belt should sit on your natural waist when you stand and stay there when you sit. Torso length matters just as much; too short and the crotch pulls. A wide leg balances the hips and falls in one line to the floor. Strappy heeled sandals, a soft clutch, one cuff and small drop earrings are enough for a cocktail party or reception.
4. Plus Size Hourglass A-Line Skirt Outfit
An A-line skirt defines the waist and then floats over hips and thighs, which is why it's so dependable. Make sure the flare starts right at the waist; a skirt that stays fitted to the high hip before flaring can cut across the widest point. Denim for casual days, satin or chiffon for dressier ones. Tuck in a slim ribbed tee or a light cashmere sweater. Ballet flats or low block mules and a small shoulder bag make it a relaxed outfit for markets and museum afternoons.
5. Plus Size Hourglass Bodycon Dress Outfit
Plenty of curvy women have been told to avoid bodycon. I disagree, as long as the fabric is thick. A heavy double-knit or rib with good stretch holds you like a foundation garment instead of showing every line. Thin bodycon is the version that disappoints. A square or scoop neckline frames the shoulders. A cropped jacket or open longline duster adds coverage over the hip without hiding the shape. Smoothing shapewear underneath is optional, but smooth underwear isn't. Strappy sandals and a mini bag finish it for birthday dinners and nights out.
6. Plus Size Hourglass Peplum Top Outfit
A peplum is built for this figure: a fitted bodice, then a flared ruffle at the waist that marks the waist and echoes the hip curve. Keep the flare soft and fairly short; a long, stiff peplum adds width at the stomach. Pair a solid peplum blouse with dark high-rise straight-leg jeans so the lower half stays clean. Pointed mules, a top-handle satchel and a pendant that leads the eye to the waist finish it for casual Fridays and lunch dates.
7. Plus Size Hourglass Fit and Flare Dress
Fit-and-flare does the same job as the A-line skirt outfit in one piece. The fitted bodice and fuller skirt are comfortable to move in and easy to wear all day. Look for a waist seam or side ruching that pulls everything toward the center. Bust fit decides the size here; if it fits the bust and is loose at the waist, a tailor can take in the waist seam easily. Midi lengths with some swing suit most heights. Block sandals in summer, ankle boots in autumn, a cropped denim jacket, a woven crossbody and studs make it a picnic or garden party outfit.
8. Plus Size Hourglass Belted Blazer Outfit
A belted blazer over slim trousers gives a sharp outline centered on the waist. Choose a single-breasted blazer with a fabric belt you can knot at your natural waist. Fit it to the bust and shoulders, since the belt takes care of the waist. Underneath, a simple fitted cami or smooth bodysuit keeps the front clean. Straight-leg or slight bootcut trousers should skim the thigh. Watch for pull lines across the front of the trouser at the hip, which mean you need the next size up and a waist alteration. Pointed pumps and a structured bag finish it for presentations.
9. Plus Size Hourglass Maxi Dress Outfit
A long dress can bury a curvy shape if nothing marks the waist. Look for an empire seam, a wrap front or a drawstring that gathers fabric under the bust and at the waist. A side slit adds movement and makes walking easier in a long skirt. Rayon and cotton gauze breathe better than polyester in heat. Flat leather sandals, a wide-brim straw hat, sunglasses and a canvas or basket bag make it a vacation and beach-lunch outfit.
10. Plus Size Hourglass Wrap Top Shorts Outfit
In this pairing the wrap top acts like a belt, closing at your narrowest point. Cotton or a linen blend in a solid color stays cool. Paper-bag shorts with a self-tie add more definition at the high waist. For plus size thighs, a longer inseam, around five to seven inches, reduces chafing and rides up less when you walk. Flat espadrilles and a mini rattan crossbody keep it light for outdoor markets and boardwalks.
11. Plus Size Hourglass Turtleneck Midi Skirt
A fitted turtleneck tucked into a bias-cut midi works because the bias skirt moves like liquid over hips and thighs, while the slim top keeps the upper body neat. Bias-cut satin is honest, though: it shows everything under it, so I fit it over smooth shapewear or choose a heavier, matte satin. The fine-knit turtleneck should be thin enough to tuck flat. Knee-high boots matching the skirt or tights keep one line from waist to floor. A longline wool coat, shoulder bag and gold earrings take it to dinner.
12. Plus Size Hourglass Lace Top Trousers
Lace on top with tailored trousers below balances something soft with something structured. A V-neck or scalloped collar opens the chest and points toward the face. Lace needs a lining or a nude camisole on a fuller bust, otherwise the bra pattern shows through. Tuck it into high-waisted flat-front trousers with a bit of stretch, fitted so they don't gap at the back waist. Neutral pointed heels, a sleek clutch and drop earrings suit an anniversary dinner or cocktail hour.
13. Plus Size Hourglass Off Shoulder Flared Jeans
An off-shoulder top widens the shoulder line a little, which makes the waist look smaller by comparison. An elastic neckline that holds firmly matters on a fuller bust, along with a strapless bra with a wide band. Tuck it into high-rise flared jeans in a medium or dark wash; the flare balances both the shoulders and the hips. Flares should almost touch the floor in the shoes you'll wear, so hem them with those shoes on. Platforms or wedges and a crossbody at the hip give it a retro feel for concerts and brunch.
14. Plus Size Hourglass Blazer A-Line Dress
Layering a blazer over an A-line dress combines two of the most dependable pieces for this figure. The blazer must nip in at the waist through tailoring, a single button or a tie belt, so it repeats the dress's waistline rather than covering it. A boxy blazer over a fitted dress hides the exact curve you want to show. A light dress fabric avoids bulk under the jacket. Pointed pumps and a structured work bag suit job interviews and formal offices.
15. Plus Size Hourglass Sweater Pencil Skirt
A fine sweater tucked into a pencil skirt is a cold-weather version of the classic. Fine-gauge cashmere or merino tucks flat; chunky knits add inches at the waist, which defeats the point. The skirt should sit at your natural waist with enough stretch for a long day of sitting. Block-heel ankle boots, a wool-blend wrap coat, a scarf and a leather satchel make it an outfit for office days and family dinners. One fit note: a wrap coat tied at the waist keeps your shape visible even with the coat on.
16. Plus Size Hourglass Graphic Tee Skirt
A graphic tee can look deliberate on a curvy figure when it's tucked firmly into a skirt at the true waist. A soft vintage-style band or art tee works best; stiff, boxy tees bunch when tucked. I'd do a full tuck rather than a front tuck here, because a loose tee over a high waist hides the waist completely. Try a satin slip skirt for contrast or a structured cotton midi for daytime. White sneakers, a denim jacket over the shoulders and a mini backpack or hobo bag make it a weekend outfit.
17. Plus Size Hourglass Silk Camisole Wide Leg
A silk camisole tucked into wide-leg trousers follows the curve of an hourglass without gripping it. The cami drapes over the bust; the high-waisted trouser defines the waist. Choose a cami with adjustable straps and enough length to stay tucked; many are cut short and pop out when you lift your arms. Crepe or satin trousers move well. Strappy heels peeking from the hem, a light duster or cardigan and a pendant that follows the V suit dinner parties and date nights.
18. Plus Size Hourglass Belted Knit Dress
A knit dress shapes to the body, and a belt makes sure the waist stays defined. Ribbed or cable texture adds depth. Cable knit adds bulk, though, so I'd keep cables for a client who wants the cozy look and choose a flatter rib for anyone who wants the curves to show. A modest side slit helps you walk. Flat knee-high boots or low block booties, a long pendant, a structured crossbody and an oversized scarf make it a weekend or casual office outfit.
19. Plus Size Hourglass Bodysuit Jeans
A smoothing bodysuit tucked into high-waisted jeans gives one clean line from bust to hip, with no shirt bunching at the waist. High-rise denim with real stretch holds the middle and defines the waist. Curvy-fit jeans exist for a reason: they're cut with more room through the hip and thigh relative to the waist, which ends the back-gap problem. A V or square neck bodysuit in a substantial stretch fabric. Dark straight or slight bootcut legs, pointed flats or ankle boots and a structured shoulder bag make it a busy-day outfit.
20. Plus Size Hourglass Belted Sweater Dress
A sweater dress without a belt drapes from the bust straight down and makes a plus size hourglass look larger than it is. With a belt, the waist reappears. Self-fabric, leather or a simple tie all work; a stretch belt is comfortable when you sit. A cowl, turtleneck or deep V frames the face. Knee-high suede or leather boots and opaque tights keep it warm. A wool wrap coat and leather satchel make it a winter outfit for holiday gatherings and weekend trips.
21. Plus Size Hourglass Crop Top Midi Skirt
A crop ending at the narrowest part of the waist and a high-rise midi rising to meet it shows the waist with very little skin. Test it in the fitting room by raising your arms: if a lot of stomach shows, the crop is too short for your torso. A fitted ribbed crop in a neutral with an accordion-pleat or slip midi gives a fitted-versus-fluid contrast. Pleated skirts can spread over a full hip, so choose a fine pleat stitched down at the top. Flat mules or low sandals and layered gold necklaces suit summer evenings.
22. Plus Size Hourglass Belted Coat Dress
A coat dress is tailoring and outfit in one, and the belt plus structured cut emphasize your shape. Wool blends in camel, navy or charcoal go with everything. Fit the shoulders and bust first, because a coat dress is hard to let out there. Underneath, a thin turtleneck or fitted long-sleeve tee keeps the coat dress the focus. Knee-high heeled boots and a structured top-handle bag suit winter weddings and formal brunches.
23. Plus Size Hourglass Wide Leg Trousers
Full-length wide-leg trousers add volume through the leg that a fitted top then balances, so the waist ends up the focus. High-rise crepe or linen-blend trousers hold a shape without bulk. Get the hem right: wide legs should almost graze the floor in your shoes, or they look cut short. A scoop-neck tee or slim tank tucked in tight keeps the top neat. Pointed flats or low heels and a long pendant lengthen everything for a full day of work and dinner.
24. Plus Size Hourglass Button-Down Pencil Skirt
A button-down tucked into a pencil skirt is a classic for this figure, but the shirt needs some stretch and bust room. Look for hidden buttons or snaps at chest level, and fit the shirt to the bust and the waist with darts. Rolled sleeves keep it relaxed. The skirt should hug the hips and end just below the knee. Nude pumps, a structured satchel and a thin patent belt at the waist make it a weekday outfit that works for school meetings and networking.
25. Plus Size Hourglass Peplum Blazer Skirt
A peplum blazer worn as a top over a matching pencil skirt gives a single-color column with a waist. The blazer's flared hem marks the waist and then mirrors the hip curve. Wear a camisole or bodysuit underneath so you can take the blazer off later. The peplum should end above the fullest part of the hip; a longer one sits right on it and adds width. Neutral pointed pumps and minimal gold jewelry give it a modern, powerful look for speaking events and awards dinners.
Where a Belt Should Sit When the Stomach Is Soft
Many plus size hourglass women have a soft stomach along with a defined waist, and a belt in the wrong spot pushes the stomach out above or below it. The right spot is the narrowest point of the torso, which on most curvy figures sits a little higher than the navel, closer to the bottom of the ribs.
- Stand sideways to a mirror and find where your torso curves in most; that's where the belt goes.
- Medium-width belts, about one to two inches, suit most plus size frames better than very thin ones.
- Stretch belts and elastic cinch belts stay comfortable when you sit and don't dig in.
- Over a jacket or coat, belt slightly looser than over a dress, so the fabric folds softly instead of bunching.
Fitted Skirts, Thigh Rub and Static Cling
Pencil skirts, bodycon dresses and bias-cut slips all hug the thighs, and full thighs rubbing together cause chafing and make a skirt creep upward as you walk. Thin bike shorts or anti-chafe shorts under the skirt solve both, and they also stop a satin skirt clinging to tights. A half slip does the same job under lined wool skirts in winter. Choose shorts with a flat waistband so no ridge shows through a fitted skirt.
Fit the Curves First, Then Take In the Waist
A plus size hourglass doesn't need hiding or squeezing. It needs clothes that recognize the waist other shapes try to fake. Wrap dresses, high-waisted bottoms, peplum tops, belted jackets and fit-and-flare cuts all do that. Fit to the fullest point, then tailor the waist, and most of the frustration goes away. Use the outfits above as starting points, mix the pieces across looks, and keep the ones you forget you're wearing by lunchtime.
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