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Writer's pictureKarin Davidson

Body Shapes explained: X Shape

Updated: Nov 8, 2023

The X or "hourglass" figure is often described as the "ideal" female body shape. The shoulders and hips are the same width, which lends a pleasing balance to outfits. It is, however, not always the easiest shape to dress, as pants and skirts often need to be altered to fit the waist, which is significantly smaller than the hips. Jackets also usually need to be taken in to fit the waist to avoid looking boxy and unflattering.

X Body Shape "hourglass" figure

If you are X-shaped:

  • Your shoulders and hips are the same width

  • You have a small waist

  • The widest part of your hip is low: at the hip socket

  • You have probably been told you have an "hourglass figure"


You will look great in:

  • A-line skirts, pleated pants

  • Fitted dresses, jackets

  • High-waisted pants, tucked-in shirts

  • Belts

  • Feminine styles


Avoid:

  • Pencil skirts, pants without pleats or darts

  • Anything boxy or shapeless

  • Long tops or cardigans that end at the hip socket

  • Skinny jeans or pants


Accentuate:

  • Your waist

  • Your shoulders, bust or decolletage


Famous X-shapes:

  • Scarlett Johanssen

  • Marilyn Monroe

  • Sofia Vergara

  • Kate Winslet

  • Halle Berry

  • Model Ashley Graham

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