Having an hourglass figure with a bigger tummy presents unique styling opportunities that many women don’t fully realize. While the best ways to dress a hourglass shape with a tummy is to draw attention away from the “problem” area, and enhance the best assets of the hourglass, i.e. the full bust and the curvy hips, the key lies in strategic styling that celebrates your natural curves while creating a balanced, confident silhouette.
The hourglass figure is characterized by balanced bust and hip measurements with a defined waist, but when you carry extra weight in the midsection, traditional hourglass styling advice may not feel quite right. The good news is that with the right techniques, you can maintain your feminine curves while creating a smooth, flattering line that makes you feel amazing in every outfit.
These 15 styling strategies focus on working with your body’s natural proportions rather than hiding them. From strategic color placement to fabric choices that skim rather than cling, each technique is designed to enhance your assets while creating a confident, polished look that feels authentically you.
1. Empire Waist Dresses for Effortless Elegance
Image: Woman in flowing empire waist dress with defined bust line and flowing skirt Image via PetiteDressing.com
Empire waist dresses are your best friend. The cinched waistline accentuates the natural curve of the waist, creating an exaggerated hourglass shape. Meanwhile, the flowing fabric of the dress drapes over the hips and bust, enhancing the curves without adding bulk.
Choose empire waist dresses that fit snugly under the bust and flow gracefully over the tummy area. The key is finding the right balance – avoid overly billowy fabrics that hide your shape entirely, but ensure the fabric skims rather than clings to your midsection. Wrap-style empire dresses work particularly well as they create adjustable fit.
Look for empire dresses at retailers like Ann Taylor ($89-169), ASOS Curve ($45-89), or Nordstrom Rack ($39-99) for budget-friendly options. Avoid billowing fabrics and gathering under the waistline as any gathering or pleating can add the appearance of extra pounds in the tummy area.
Style with a belt just under the bust to further define the empire waistline and pair with heels to elongate your silhouette.
2. Strategic Color Blocking to Create Visual Balance
Image: Outfit featuring darker color on torso with brighter colors on top and bottom Image via TheConceptWardrobe.com
Color blocking allows you to direct attention exactly where you want it while minimizing focus on your midsection. Use darker, solid colors across your torso while incorporating brighter or patterned pieces near your face and on your lower body.
Create a visual triangle by wearing a bold, bright top that draws attention to your bust, paired with dark, solid-colored pieces across your midsection, and finishing with patterned or brighter bottom pieces that highlight your curves. This technique maintains hourglass proportions while minimizing tummy focus.
Invest in a few quality dark camisoles or tops in navy, black, or deep jewel tones ($25-65 at Target or Banana Republic) that can serve as your “base” pieces for color blocking. Layer with colorful cardigans, blazers, or scarves to complete the look.
The key is ensuring colors transition smoothly rather than creating harsh lines that draw attention to areas you prefer to minimize.
3. Peplum Tops for Instant Waist Definition
Image: Woman wearing fitted peplum top that flares at the waist Image via BodyTypeFashion.com
It’s super easy to hide your bigger stomach with a peplum top. All you need is the perfect fit under your bust and then it forms a gradual flare towards your waistline. Peplum styles create an instant waist definition while cleverly camouflaging the tummy area.
Choose peplum tops that fit snugly through the bust and shoulders, then flare gently at your natural waist or just below. The peplum should hit at your narrowest point to create the most flattering silhouette. Avoid overly stiff fabrics that create an unnatural shape or peplums that are too full and overwhelming.
Shop for peplum tops at stores like White House Black Market ($68-128), Talbots ($59-119), or find budget options at H&M ($25-49). Look for structured peplums in ponte knits or crepe fabrics that maintain their shape throughout the day.
Pair with slim-fitting bottoms like straight-leg pants or pencil skirts to balance the volume of the peplum and create a polished hourglass silhouette.
4. Wrap Dresses and Tops for Adjustable Fit
Image: Classic wrap dress with V-neckline and tied waist Image via StunningStyle.com
Belted tops and wrap tops are great to accentuate the waist while providing adjustable fit that works with your body’s daily changes. Wrap styles naturally create the hourglass silhouette while allowing you to customize the fit around your midsection.
Select wrap dresses and tops in fabrics with slight stretch, such as jersey knits or crepe blends, that drape beautifully without clinging. The wrap should cross just above your bustline and tie at your natural waist or slightly below, creating a smooth line over your tummy area.
Invest in quality wrap pieces from brands like Diane von Furstenberg ($200-400), or find similar styles at more accessible price points like Lands’ End ($69-149) or Nordstrom’s private label ($89-179). Look for prints that incorporate darker colors through the middle.
Adjust the wrap tension throughout the day as needed, and consider adding a camisole underneath for extra smoothing and coverage.
5. A-Line Silhouettes That Skim and Flatter
Image: A-line dress that fits at the bust and flows to an A-shape Image via Latest-Hairstyles.com
A-line cuts create the perfect balance for hourglass figures with tummies by maintaining fitted proportions through the bust while gently flaring from the waist down. This silhouette preserves your curves while providing comfortable coverage.
Choose A-line dresses and skirts that begin their flare at your natural waist or just below. The fit should be snug but not tight through the bust and ribcage, then gradually widen. Avoid A-lines that start flaring too high, as they can make you appear larger through the midsection.
Find quality A-line pieces at retailers like J.Crew ($98-248), Ann Taylor ($79-189), or budget-friendly options at Old Navy ($29-69). Look for fabrics with structure like ponte knits, crepe, or cotton blends that maintain the A-line shape without clinging.
Pair A-line tops with fitted bottoms or A-line dresses with fitted cardigans to maintain balanced proportions throughout your outfit.
6. High-Waisted Bottoms for Tummy Control
Image: High-waisted pants with tucked-in blouse showing defined waistline Image via MaridFashion.com
High-waisted pants, skirts, and jeans provide natural tummy control while creating a smooth line from bust to hip. When styled correctly, they enhance your hourglass silhouette by emphasizing your narrowest point.
Select high-waisted bottoms that sit at or just above your natural waist, avoiding styles that dig in and create unflattering bulges. Look for pieces with built-in tummy control panels or wide waistbands that smooth rather than compress. The fit should be snug but comfortable throughout the hip and thigh.
Invest in quality high-waisted jeans from brands like Spanx ($118-168), Good American ($149-179), or find budget options at Target’s A New Day line ($25-49). For work wear, try high-waisted trousers from Banana Republic ($89-159) or Ann Taylor ($79-149).
Tuck in fitted tops or wear cropped tops that hit right at the waistband to showcase the high-waisted silhouette and create smooth lines.
7. Strategic Layering for Dimension and Coverage
Image: Layered outfit with fitted camisole, flowing cardigan, and structured bottom Image via InsideOutStyle.com
Thoughtful layering creates visual interest while providing coverage and the ability to adjust your look throughout the day. The key is varying lengths and textures while maintaining your hourglass proportions.
Layer a fitted camisole or base layer with a longer, flowing cardigan or kimono-style jacket that hits below the hip. Add a structured blazer or fitted jacket over everything to define your waist. Each layer should serve a purpose – smoothing, defining, or adding visual interest.
Build a versatile layering wardrobe with pieces from stores like Eileen Fisher ($98-298) for investment pieces, or Uniqlo ($29-89) for affordable basics. Look for varying textures like smooth knits, flowing chiffons, and structured blazers that work together harmoniously.
Ensure the longest layer ends at a flattering point on your legs, and keep the fitted pieces closest to your body while using flowing pieces as the outer layers.
8. V-Necklines to Draw Eyes Upward
Image: V-neck top that creates vertical line and draws attention to décolletage Image via Jovani.com
Necklines play a big role in how our outfit look, but they are often overlooked by most women. V-necklines create vertical lines that elongate your torso while drawing attention to your décolletage and away from your midsection.
Choose V-necklines that are deep enough to be flattering but not so deep they become inappropriate for your lifestyle. The V should point toward your natural waist, creating a long, elegant line. Avoid necklines that cut across your fullest part or create horizontal emphasis.
Shop for quality V-neck tops and dresses at retailers like Nordstrom ($45-179), J.Crew ($68-158), or find affordable options at Target ($15-39). Look for structured V-necks in blouses and dresses that maintain their shape throughout the day.
Layer delicate necklaces within the V to add visual interest and further draw attention upward, or add a scarf tied at the side for asymmetrical detail.
9. Fit-and-Flare Dresses for Classic Appeal
Image: Fit-and-flare dress with fitted bodice and full skirt Image via MasterClass.com
Fit-and-flare dresses epitomize hourglass dressing by hugging your curves through the bust and waist, then flaring into a full skirt that balances your proportions. This classic silhouette works beautifully with a tummy by creating smooth lines.
Select fit-and-flare styles where the fitted portion ends at or just below your natural waist, then flares into a full but not overwhelming skirt. The bodice should be structured enough to provide support and smoothing through your torso. Avoid styles where the flare begins too high on your ribcage.
Find quality fit-and-flare dresses at retailers like Anthropologie ($158-298), eShakti (custom sizing $69-149), or budget options at ModCloth ($59-129). Look for dresses with built-in bras or structured bodices that provide support and smoothing.
Pair with a cropped cardigan or bolero that ends right at the waist to maintain the fit-and-flare proportions, and add a belt if the dress doesn’t have a defined waist.
10. Diagonal Lines and Asymmetrical Details
Image: Asymmetrical top with diagonal seaming and side gathering Image via TheConceptWardrobe.com
Diagonal lines and asymmetrical details create visual movement that draws the eye around your body rather than focusing on any one area. These design elements add interest while flattering your hourglass shape.
Look for tops and dresses with diagonal seaming, asymmetrical hemlines, or side-gathered details that create interesting visual lines. Wrap styles naturally incorporate diagonal elements, as do tops with asymmetrical draping or side ties that fall at flattering points.
Explore asymmetrical pieces at stores like COS ($79-189), & Other Stories ($69-149), or find budget options at Zara ($25-89). Look for pieces where the diagonal elements enhance rather than cut across your natural curves.
Keep accessories simple when wearing asymmetrical pieces, allowing the interesting design details to be the focal point of your outfit.
11. Empire Waist Tops with Fitted Bottoms
Image: Empire waist blouse tucked into high-waisted pants Image via MonroeandMain.com
Empire waist tops provide the same benefits as empire dresses but offer more styling versatility when paired with various bottoms. This combination allows you to customize your proportions while maintaining the empire waist’s flattering effects.
Choose empire waist blouses that fit snugly under your bust and flow gently over your tummy, then tuck them into high-waisted bottoms or let them flow over fitted pants or leggings. The key is creating a smooth transition from the fitted bust area to the flowing fabric below.
Shop for empire waist tops at retailers like Soft Surroundings ($58-128), Chico’s ($49-119), or find affordable options at Kohl’s ($19-49). Look for tops in flowing fabrics like chiffon, crepe, or jersey that drape beautifully.
Pair with slim-fitting bottoms to balance the flowing top, and add a long necklace or scarf to create vertical lines that enhance the empire waist effect.
12. Tunic Tops with Leggings for Comfortable Style
Image: Flowing tunic top paired with fitted leggings and boots Image via Ashro.com
Well-fitted tunics provide comfortable coverage while maintaining feminine appeal. The key is choosing tunics that skim your body rather than overwhelming your frame, paired with fitted bottoms that show your leg line.
Select tunics that fit well through the shoulders and bust, then flow gently over your torso without being too voluminous. The length should hit at your most flattering point – typically mid-thigh or just below. Avoid tunics that are too tight or too loose, as both can be unflattering.
Find quality tunics at stores like Eileen Fisher ($118-248), J.Jill ($69-149), or budget options at Old Navy ($19-39). Look for tunics with interesting details like embroidery, subtle prints, or textured fabrics that add visual interest.
Always pair tunics with fitted bottoms like leggings, skinny jeans, or slim pants to maintain your hourglass proportions and prevent the outfit from appearing shapeless.
13. Belted Cardigans and Jackets
Image: Long cardigan belted at the waist over fitted dress Image via Sumissura.com
Belted cardigans and jackets instantly create waist definition while providing layering versatility and coverage. The belt placement allows you to customize the fit and create the most flattering silhouette for your body.
Choose longer cardigans or jackets that can be belted at your natural waist or just below. The belt should create gentle gathering rather than pulling too tightly. Open-front styles work particularly well as they create vertical lines while the belt adds waist definition.
Invest in quality belted pieces from brands like Talbots ($89-189), Ann Taylor ($79-159), or find affordable options at Target ($29-69). Look for cardigans in ponte knits or soft wool blends that drape well and hold their shape.
Experiment with different belt positions to find your most flattering point, and consider using a belt in a contrasting color to add visual interest and further define your waist.
14. Structured Blazers with Soft Bottoms
Image: Fitted blazer over flowing dress or soft pants Image via DressYourColor.com
The contrast between a structured blazer and soft, flowing bottoms creates visual balance while defining your waist and shoulders. This combination maintains professional polish while accommodating your tummy comfortably.
Select blazers that fit well through the shoulders and can be buttoned comfortably at your narrowest point. Single-breasted styles typically work better than double-breasted for hourglass figures with tummies. The blazer should nip in at the waist without pulling or creating unflattering lines.
Shop for quality blazers at retailers like Banana Republic ($129-249), Ann Taylor ($119-199), or find budget options at H&M ($39-79). Look for blazers with a bit of stretch in fabrics like ponte knits or crepe blends that move with your body.
Pair structured blazers with flowing dresses, soft pants, or A-line skirts to create interesting textural contrast while maintaining balanced proportions.
15. Midi Dresses with Strategic Waist Placement
Image: Midi dress with defined waist and flowing skirt Image via Latest-Hairstyles.com
Midi dresses offer elegant coverage while allowing you to showcase your legs and create long, lean lines. The key is finding styles with strategic waist placement that flatters your hourglass figure while accommodating your tummy.
Choose midi dresses that define your waist at the narrowest point, then flow smoothly over your hips and tummy. The length should hit at the most flattering part of your legs – typically mid-calf. Avoid maxis that can overwhelm your frame or minis that may not provide the coverage you prefer.
Find beautiful midi dresses at retailers like Nordstrom ($89-298), Anthropologie ($148-248), or budget-friendly options at ASOS ($45-129). Look for dresses in fabrics that drape well without clinging, such as crepe, jersey, or flowing chiffons.
Style with heels to elongate your legs and maintain the elegant proportions of the midi length, and add a cropped jacket or cardigan that doesn’t interfere with the dress’s waistline.
