What style of dress is most flattering on an hourglass figure?

The wrap dress, comfortably. It ties at your narrowest point so it adapts to your exact waist-to-hip ratio rather than guessing it, the diagonal line follows your curve from bust to hip, and the V-neck stops a fuller bust reading top-heavy. If you buy one dress this year, make it a wrap in a mid-weight jersey or viscose.

Should an hourglass wear a fitted or a loose dress?

Fitted at the waist, easy everywhere else. A dress that clings from shoulder to hem shows every line underneath and creases across the middle; a dress that's loose all over hides the proportion you're built for. The sweet spot is construction at the waist — a seam, a tie or a belt — with enough room through the bust and hip to sit flat.

Are bodycon dresses good for an hourglass body?

They can be, if the construction is right. Look for a seamed or panelled bodycon in a heavy bonded fabric rather than a thin stretch jersey — the seams shape the dress to you instead of the dress stretching over you. Pair it with a jacket or cardigan that stops at the waist so the proportion stays clear.

What dress length suits an hourglass best?

Midi is the most consistently flattering, hitting between mid-calf and just below the knee, because it keeps the leg line long while letting the skirt fall properly from the waist. Knee-length works beautifully for sheaths and work dresses. Maxis are fine as long as the waist is marked — an unbelted floor-length column loses the shape entirely.

How do I know if I have an hourglass figure?

In fitted clothing or underwear, look at your shoulders, waist and hips in profile. If your bust and hips are roughly the same width and your waist is clearly narrower than both, you're an hourglass. [How to find your body shape](/style-hub/how-to-find-your-body-shape) walks through it with the other four frames if you want a guided confirmation.

What's the best UK brand for hourglass dresses on a budget?

M&S, hands down. The wrap dresses and fit-and-flare midis have properly placed waist seams and enough bust room to close cleanly, and the fabric weight is far better than the price suggests. Boden is a close second in the same band, particularly for belted shirt dresses with real full skirts.