Exploring Hourglass Body Shape with Priyanka Chopra

Got an Hourglass Body Shape? Well, you're in luck, because it is considered the most ideal body shape! Out of the 4 silhouettes, the hourglass has the best proportions - with upper and lower half approximately in line with each other, along with a defined waist (Other 3 silhouettes being Column, Apple & Pear).

Compared to the Pear or Apple shape, you've got the curves on all the right places! Some of the visible characteristics of your body shape are:

- Your full hip-line and full bust-line are of almost the same width
- Your waist is well defined, apx 10 inches lesser than your hip/bust measurements
- When you gain weight, the fat gets evenly distributed throughout your curves

For your shape to be an hourglass, its ***very important*** that your waistline is 8" - 12" lesser than your hip/bust line. Only then will your waist get that definition..

The reason why your body shape is considered ideal is because of its proportions and defined waist. It sounds rather shapist of me to say but it's true! This is the shape fashion stylist strive to create on their models. Having the curves on the right places indicates femininity and is appealing (sells better) to the eye.

Talking of appealing to the eye, who can be considered a better eye-candy than Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra... Her deadly curves, sun-kissed skin tone and acting marvels make her one of the most versatile female actors Bollywood's got today. And remember her in Dostana..?? OMG..!! No words to describe.. Totally jaw-dropping... Take a look below...

Style Tip - The best tip for an Hourglass is to accentuate the best part of the body, i.e.the waist! Don't be afraid to highlight your curves..

Let's see how to dress your Hourglass shape, taking cues from the gorgeous Priyanka Chopra...

1. Keep your Waist as the Focal Point

Wearing outfits that snuggle around the thinnest part of your waist can really bring out your perfect proportions. Definition at the waist will leave volume on the shoulders and hips, giving the hourglass appeal. A-line dresses, pencil skirts, mid-waist pants, etc which are not very biased on the top or bottom are good choices for you.

2. Wrap it around 

Wrap tops, shirts, wrap dresses create a smooth and sexy silhouette, adding a flirty touch to your waist without making your midriff look boxy. Unless you’re short-heighted (where wrap outfits tend to hit the wrong areas of the torso), wrap outfits will compliment your figure just like hairbands do to fringe haircuts!

3. Flare it Down

You can’t go wrong with wide leg trousers. Bootcuts, flared denims, hipsters, etc seem as if they’ve been made for you! Nonetheless, if you have slender thighs, you can try on slimming bottoms. But never ever wear baggy trousers, with side flap pockets. This will only add bulk and will do no good...

4. Dresses = BFFs

Your curves were made for dresses and vice versa.. I’d like to repeat - Go for wrap dresses, back-ties & halter necks that will work for your waist. ‘Fit & flare’ are the most classic and safest options you can choose for any occasion, just like our beloved Piggy Chops! 

Avoid dresses with empire lines. Instead go for princess line which will give your body good curves..

5. My favorites – The Necklines

Being an hourglass, you carry major responsibility of doing justice to your neck and upper torso. Choosing random necklines will make you appear just like another figure trying to find its identity... Your figure is royal by birth and thus you need to choose elegant necklines like the Sweetheart Neckline, the Scoop Neck, Deep Vs, the Crossover Neck, the Grecian Neck (one shoulder) and the Off-Shoulders..

Avoid Squares, Boatnecks, Turtlenecks, Jewel necks, etc as they’re meant for other shapes that want to volumnize/de-volumnize their upper half.

6. The Magic Belt

When we talk of waist, how can we not mention Belts?!  Accentuating waist and adding belts go hand in hand. While most accessories will look great on your figure, the belts has a special place because it’s the matter of your waist.. I can just imagine a blingy belt and a matching clutch bag with a sexy LBD.

Remember not to wear the belts on your hips. They will divert the attention from your thin waist to your huge hips, as also making your figure appear out of shape..

7. Downplay your Curves

Having shared all the tips to flaunt your figure, I’ve noticed that some hourglasses do not like their curves (tiny waist and bigger busts and hips). They prefer to look thin and tall.. That's perfectly okay unless and until you don’t make a complete mess of your shape!

Just take care of the dont’s mentioned above. There will be hundreds of do’s for your figure.. So need not worry and play the game. After all, you’re among the 0.7% (only) women in the world who own this fabulous shape!

I’m eagerly waiting to hear how have you stylized your hourglass shape... Do write to me asap...