This is our second post in the body shape series, where we are focusing on the fabulous ‘Hourglass’ figure! The hourglass is classed at the ideal fantasy figure for a woman, with equal proportions, gorgeous curves, ample bust, slender waist yet still with hips, thigh and a good bum! This body shape might sound easy enough to style and think that with the good proportions they would suit everything, however it can actually be one of the most difficult shapes to dress right!

If you are an hourglass you may find that when you go into some stores, especially the higher end stores that it can be a challenge to find clothes that suit your shape, and this is because designers tend to make clothes for a straight up and down figure. If you like to wear luxurious clothes you will find it easier to shop in a luxury boutique/fashion studio.

This season every hourglass should have in her wardrobe; a fitted crisp white shirt ( the fitted shirt was made you!) a pencil skirt to show off those curves, either a wrap or an a-line skirt dress. Some killer jeans, steer away from a flare leg, however if you like bootcut jeans go for a dark wash and make sure they have large pockets on the bum. Straight/slim leg trousers and jeans work best for you as they show off your curves and legs, try to stay away from light wash jeans. The a-line skirt paired with a fitted top with flatter your figure to no end, wearing a dress or skirt with a slight peplum will also show off your curves however do not go over the top with the peplum as one with too much volume will just make your hips look larger than they are.

If you are a petite hourglass try and find slim trousers and jeans which are slightly high waisted as they will elongate your legs as well as drawing in your waist. Avoid clothes with no shape and definition as they will do nothing for your figure and if anything they will just make you look frumpy. Also avoid hip pockets as this will make you look disproportionate.

For the colder months when choosing your a/w coat, go for a coat which has a belt or a define waist, a mac is the ideal coat for you. Also try a cropped jacket/biker leather jacket (totally on trend!) by wearing a cropped jacket it will draw in your waist and show it off. Stay away from boxy jackets even if they are on trend this season!!

We have styled 3 outfits, 1 look with a pencil skirt, 1 with a dress and cropped fur and 1 trouser look, to show you how we would style your body shape during this season!

First we have a work wear look with a pencil skirt, which will hug your curves and show off your waist. This skirt is in a must have colour of the season; berry! We have teamed it with a fitted white shirt which has unique box pleat details around the neck and on the cuff of the sleeves. By adding one of our new belts that have just landed in the studio for A/W13 it has taken this look from day to night, finish this look off by adding a clutch, some heels and a berry lip.Next up is our autumnal dress look. This lightweight jumper dress is an extremely versatile piece to have in your wardrobe, you can dress it up or down, we have added a cropped berry fur bolero jacket which is gorgeous for your shape. We would finish this look with some earrings a slick ponytail and a heel. This dress has no waist definition so we have added a tan belt to draw in the waist to give more shape. Just because a dress has no definition at the waist does not mean that you can’t style it to suit your shape. Last is our trouser look. These casual trousers come in black, maroon, navy and a light brown and are perfect for hourglass and triangle shapes, they skim over the hips, are ever so slightly high waisted and are a straight cut so they don’t cling to your ankle. The faux leather waist band adds texture. We have dressed this look up slightly with a gorgeous black jumper which has beautiful embellished shoulders, everybody loves a bit of bling! Again to take this look to an evening we have added a clutch bag, also team with a heel, a red lip for a pop of colour and let your hair down. Which look do you like best?! Next week we will be doing a post for inverted triangles!

Love Team Niche xox