How to Dress a Petite Hourglass Figure: Petite Style Tips
Welcome to our style guide dedicated to all the petite hourglass figures out there! If you’re blessed with an hourglass shape and stand on the shorter side of the height spectrum, you know that finding the perfect outfit can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But fear not, because in this blog, we’re about to unravel the secrets of dressing to accentuate your petite hourglass figure.
From understanding your body shape to choosing the right clothing styles, colours, and accessories, we’ve got you covered with a treasure trove of petite style tips. Whether you’re looking to enhance your curves, elongate your silhouette, or simply revamp your wardrobe with confidence, join us on this fashion journey as we delve into the art of dressing a petite hourglass figure. So, get ready to embrace your unique proportions and unlock a world of fashion possibilities that will make you feel like the stylish, confident, and fabulous individual you are!
Understanding Your Body Measurements
Am I Petite?
In the fashion industry, being “petite” refers to height and proportion rather than body shape or weight.
If you are between the heights of [roughly] 4ft 11 – 5ft 4, you are considered to fall within the petite height range.
Do I have an Hourglass Figure?
Identifying if you have an hourglass figure can be quite straightforward if you know what to look for.
The hourglass figure is characterized by a well-defined waistline, with the bust and hips being about the same measurement and the waist being significantly smaller. One way to determine if you have an hourglass shape is by measuring your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips. If your bust and hip measurements are almost equal, with a noticeably smaller waist measurement, then you likely have an hourglass figure. Another indicator is the way clothes fit your body.
If you tend to look curvy and balanced with well-fitting clothes that emphasize your waist, you probably have an hourglass shape. Additionally, paying attention to the natural distribution of fat in your body can be helpful. Those with an hourglass figure tend to have a bit more fat in the bust and hips area, giving them a curvier appearance. While body types can vary, identifying if you have an hourglass figure is important as it helps in understanding how to dress to flatter your shape, as well as embracing and celebrating your unique body.
Tips on How to Measure Yourself
As mentioned above, one way to determine if you have an hourglass shape is by measuring your shoulders, bust, waist, and hips. If your bust and hip measurements are almost equal, with a noticeably smaller waist measurement, then you likely have an hourglass figure.
To accurately measure your bust, waist, and hip size, follow these tips.
Start by wearing a well-fitting bra and stand straight with your shoulders relaxed. For your bust measurement, wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust and make sure it is parallel to the ground. Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
For your waist measurement, locate the narrowest part of your waist, about one inch above your belly button, and wrap the measuring tape around it. Again, make sure it is parallel to the ground and record the measurement.
Finally, for your hip measurement, wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your hips, usually around 7-9 inches below your waist. Keep the tape parallel to the ground and write down the measurement.
To enhance accuracy, repeat each measurement at least three times and take the average. Remember to measure without clothing and avoid pulling the tape too tightly or too loosely. Keeping these tips in mind will help you accurately measure your bust, waist, and hip size for a better fit when shopping for clothes.
Finding the Right Tops for a Petite Hourglass Figure
If you have a petite hourglass figure, there are certain tops that can help flatter and enhance your curves, while also elongating your petite body.
Petite Styling Rules: Tops
When it comes to petite styling, there are a few rules to follow when selecting tops in order to elongate one’s figure and create a balanced look.
One important rule is to avoid tops with big prints, as these can overwhelm a petite frame and make it appear smaller. Instead, opt for tops with smaller prints or solid colors, which will create a more streamlined and elongated silhouette.
Additionally, bulky fabrics should be avoided, as they can add unnecessary volume to the body. Instead, choose lightweight fabrics that drape nicely and skim over the curves.
Another important rule is to avoid bold and vibrant colors, as they can draw attention to specific areas and make them appear larger. Instead, opt for neutral or muted tones, which will create a more slimming effect.
Lastly, busy designs should be avoided, as they can create visual chaos and distract from the overall look. Instead, opt for simpler designs and clean lines to create a polished and flattering silhouette.
Best Tops for Hourglass Figures
When it comes to styling an hourglass figure, it is important to highlight your waist. This is because the hourglass figure is defined by a well-defined waistline, and emphasizing this feature will help create a balanced and proportionate look. One way to do this is by opting for fitted clothing that cinches in at the waist.
Wrap Tops
Wrap tops are a great option as they cinch in at the waist, highlighting your narrowest point, while also emphasizing your bust and hips. This style creates a balanced silhouette and gives the illusion of an accentuated hourglass shape.
Peplum Tops
Peplum tops are another fantastic choice for petite hourglass figures. The flared detail at the waist adds volume and enhances your curves, while the fitted top section emphasizes your upper body. This style creates a feminine and hourglass-enhancing look.
Tailored Blouses
Tailored blouses are a classic and versatile option, perfect for a petite hourglass figure. Opt for blouses that are slightly nipped in at the waist to accentuate your curves. Pairing them with slim-fitting bottoms can also help balance your proportions and create a polished and flattering look.
Overall, these tops can help you play up your petite hourglass figure, creating a flattering and stylish appearance.
Bottoms for Petite Hourglass Figures
When it comes to choosing bottoms for a petite hourglass figure, it’s important to select clothing items which will enhance your figure while also flattering your petite body.
Petite Styling Rules: Bottoms
When it comes to styling bottoms for petite frames, there are a few key rules to keep in mind.
Firstly, opt for high-waisted styles as they help elongate the legs and create the illusion of height. Avoid low-rise options as they can make the torso appear shorter.
Secondly, choose bottoms that have a tailored rather than relaxed fit. This will create a sleek and polished look, drawing attention away from any potential areas of concern.
Additionally, it’s important to avoid distracting prints and colors. Stick to neutral tones and simple patterns to maintain a streamlined and elongating effect. Busy prints can overwhelm a petite frame and make it appear smaller.
By following these petite styling rules for bottoms, you’ll be able to enhance your proportions and create a flattering and stylish outfit.
Best Bottoms for Hourglass Figures
When styling an hourglass figure, it is important to choose bottoms that accentuate and flatter the curves.
For those with a petite hourglass figure, high-waisted trousers are an excellent choice. They help to elongate the legs and draw attention to the waistline, creating a balanced and proportional silhouette.
A-line skirts are another great option for an hourglass figure. The flared shape of these skirts highlights the waist and skims over the hips, creating a feminine and flattering look.
Midi pencil skirts are also a fantastic choice for an hourglass figure. The fitted silhouette of these skirts hugs the curves in all the right places, emphasizing the waistline and creating a sleek and elegant look.
When choosing bottoms for an hourglass figure, it is important to consider the proportions and the way they accentuate the natural curves. By opting for high-waisted trousers, A-line skirts, and midi pencil skirts, one can enhance their hourglass figure and create a stylish and flattering look.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find bottoms that not only flatter your petite hourglass figure but also help to elongate your body.
Dressing for Different Occasions
Casual clothing ideas for petite hourglass bodies
If you have a petite hourglass figure, there are plenty of casual clothing ideas that can enhance your shape and flatter your proportions.
Start by choosing well-fitted pieces that cinch at the waist to highlight your narrowest point. Opt for fitted tank or shoort sleeve tops with V-necks or scoop necklines to elongate your upper body and draw attention to your curves.
Lightweight wrap dresses and tops are also great options as they create an hourglass silhouette.
When it comes to bottoms, high-waisted skinny jeans and high-waisted A-line skirts are great for accentuating your waist.
Tips on dressing up for formal events
When it comes to dressing for special events, hourglass figures have an advantage as they can easily flaunt their curves.
A fitted dress that accentuates the waist is a perfect choice for these body types. Opt for a cocktail dress with a wrap-style silhouette or a vintage-inspired pencil dress. These styles will highlight the natural curves and create an elegant and sophisticated look.
Consider a plunging neckline or an off-shoulder design to elongate and broaden the upper body.
A high-waisted skirt paired with a tailored blouse is another stylish option for petite hourglass figures.
Remember to choose fabrics that drape well and avoid anything too loose or shapeless, as it can hide your gorgeous silhouette. Don’t forget to complete the look with some statement accessories and a pair of high heels to enhance your overall appearance.
Recommendations for business or work attire
When it comes to workwear clothing ideas for petite hourglass figures, there are a few key styles that can help flatter and accentuate your curves.
Opt for tailored blazers or jackets that cinch at the waist to highlight your small midsection. Pair these with fitted pencil skirts or high-waisted trousers to emphasize your hourglass shape. Avoid baggy or oversized clothing as they can overwhelm your petite frame. Additionally, choose fabrics with a slight stretch to ensure a comfortable and flattering fit. Opting for neutral colours will further assist in elongating and complementing your petite frame.
With respect to petite-friendly work and office attire, we are overjoyed to announce our recently-launched Classics Collection, which includes a capsule range of high quality petite workwear staples. If you’re a petite woman and are in need of some high-quality, timeless pieces for your wardrobe that will flatter your body shape, we invite you to have a browse of our new range.
Accessorizing to Enhance your Figure
If you have a petite hourglass figure, it’s important to choose accessories that flatter your silhouette and highlight your curves.
With the right accessories, you can draw attention to your waist and create a balanced look. When it comes to petite styling, consider using belts to cinch in your waist and create definition. Opt for belts in contrasting colors or with embellishments to make a statement.
Statement jewelry is another great option for petite hourglass figures. If you want, you could choose bold necklaces or earrings that draw the eye upwards towards your face, while adding visual interest to your outfit.
Additionally, scarves can also be a fantastic accessory for petite hourglass figures. Tie a scarf loosely around your neck to add height and create a vertical line that elongates your frame. When selecting scarves, lean towards prints and patterns that aren’t too overwhelming, to keep the focus on your figure.
Experimenting with these accessories can help you enhance your petite hourglass figure and feel confident in your style.
Do’s and Don’ts for Dressing a Petite Hourglass Figure
Do’s:
1. Opt for Fitted Clothing
When dressing a petite hourglass figure, it is important to accentuate the curves and create a balanced silhouette. Opting for fitted clothing is key, as it helps to highlight the narrow waist and accentuate the natural curves of the body. Avoid overly baggy or loose clothes, as this can visually drown the petite frame.
2. Experiment with Different Necklines
When it comes to necklines, experimenting with different styles can be beneficial. V-necklines and scoop necklines tend to elongate the torso and draw attention to the decolletage, while sweetheart necklines can emphasize the hourglass shape. Additionally, opting for dresses and tops with defined waistlines or belts can further enhance the figure. Don’t be afraid to try out different styles and play with proportions to find what works best for your petite hourglass figure.
Don’ts:
1: Avoid Overly Baggy or Boxy Silhouettes
When dressing a petite hourglass figure, it is important to avoid overly baggy or boxy silhouettes. Instead, opt for fitted styles that flatter your curves and highlight your waist. Look for clothes that cinch in at the waist, such as tailored jackets or A-line dresses with a defined waistline. By accentuating the narrowest part of your body, you can create a balanced and flattering look. Tucking in tops or opting for high-waisted bottoms can also help showcase your hourglass shape.
2: Steer clear of extremely long or oversized accessories
Additionally, it’s crucial to steer clear of extremely long or oversized accessories. These can overwhelm your petite frame and make you appear smaller. Instead, accessorize with dainty jewelry or smaller handbags that complement your figure. Overall, dressing a petite hourglass figure involves finding clothes and accessories that enhance your proportions and celebrate your curves.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dressing a petite hourglass figure may seem like a challenge at times, but armed with the right knowledge and a dash of creativity, you can confidently step into the world of fashion and make it your own.
Remember, your petite hourglass figure is unique and beautiful, and the key is to celebrate and accentuate it with the right styles, colors, and accessories. By understanding your body shape and implementing the petite style tips we’ve shared, you’ll not only look amazing but also feel empowered and self-assured in your fashion choices.
So, embrace your petite hourglass figure, express your personality through your wardrobe, and let your style shine brightly for the world to see. Happy styling!
Additional Resources
For more information on petite fashion and styling, check out the following resources:
https://monajuliet.com.au/petite-capsule-wardrobe-workwear-edition/
Is Petite Clothing Just Shorter In Length? Petite Sizing Explained
Petite Styling Tips: The Ultimate Styling Guide for Petite Women
FAQs
1. What is a petite hourglass figure?
A petite hourglass figure refers to a body shape characterized by having well-defined curves at the bust and hips, with a smaller waistline. It is a combination of the hourglass shape and a petite frame.
2. How can I flatter my petite hourglass figure?
To flatter your petite hourglass figure, you can try wearing skirts and styles that accentuate your curves. Choose outfits that cinch in at the waist to create a defined waistline and elongate your body. Fit and flare dresses, pencil skirts, and wrap dresses are some of the best options.
3. Are there any specific tips for dressing a petite hourglass figure?
Yes, there are several tips for dressing a petite hourglass figure. Firstly, choose clothing that fits your body well and does not appear baggy. Opt for styles that highlight your upper and lower body while creating a visual balance. Additionally, using belts to cinch your waist and wearing v-neck tops can create the illusion of a longer and taller figure.
4. How can I elongate my legs with a petite hourglass figure?
To elongate your legs with a petite hourglass figure, you can opt for high-waisted bottoms, such as skirts or jeans. Wearing shoes with a heel can also help create the illusion of longer legs. Avoid wearing styles that make you appear shapeless or drown your figure.
5. What are some common mistakes to avoid for a petite hourglass figure?
Common mistakes to avoid for a petite hourglass figure include wearing boxy or shapeless clothing that hides your curves, choosing styles that make you appear shorter, and neglecting to define your waistline. It’s important to embrace and highlight your best features.
6. Can you recommend any specific clothing items for a petite hourglass figure?
Yes, some clothing items that can flatter a petite hourglass figure include fit and flare dresses, waist dresses, pencil skirts, and peplum tops. These styles help define your figure and show off your curves, while also creating a feminine and stylish look.