The often misunderstood cousin of the X-shape, the figure 8 body shape is a version of the hourglass. 8 shapes are often frustrated that traditional body shape advice for hourglass figures doesn't work for them. The 8 shape has a lot of similarities with the X, but also some notable differences. It is also balanced, with shoulders and hips the same width, and a defined waist. However, unlike the X shape, the 8 shape's hips are widest at the top of the hip bone, and not at the hip socket. This creates a little "shelf" underneath the waist, with the rest of the hip dropping down straight or slanting only slightly. Wonderfully feminine, even seductive, it nevertheless can cause some problems with fit of clothes, and 8 shapes have to be careful lest their outfits look "boxy" or ill-fitting.
If you are 8 shaped:
You have shoulders and hips same width, with a defined waist
The widest part of your hip is high: at the top of the hip bone, not at the hip socket
The hip protrudes like a little "shelf"
You have probably heard that you have an "hourglass" figure
You have probably tried advice for hourglass figures, only to find that it doesn't work for you
You will look great in:
Tapered pencil skirts
Flat-front, straight-cut or tapered pants, no flares
Cropped jackets, trench coats
Peplums, wide waist-bands
Open necklines
Fabrics that drape but don't cling
Narrow belts and other waist detail
Avoid:
Flared or pleated trousers
A-line, pleated, godet, tulip or bias-cut skirts
Boxy jackets/tops
Double-breasted jackets and coats
Wide belts - the space between your waist and hip is not enough to accommodate a wide belt. You should opt for narrow ones instead.
Goal:
Focus attention on waist and keep skirts and trousers narrow
Alterations:
Buy garments to fit the widest part of your hip, and have the waist and/or thighs taken in
Famous 8 Shapes:
Salma Hayek
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Nigella Lawson
Helen Mirren
Marilyn Monroe
Sophia Loren
Christina Hendricks
Sofia Vergara
Dita von Teese
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