How to Get an Hourglass Figure: Shapewear, Exercise & Style Tips

Want to know how to get an hourglass figure? Whether you want instant results with shapewear or a longer-term shape through exercise and styling, this guide covers all three routes. The hourglass silhouette — defined waist, balanced bust and hips — is achievable for every body type.

Quick answer: The fastest way to create an hourglass silhouette is to combine hip-enhancing shapewear at the hips, a waist trainer at the midsection, and a butt-lifting brief at the rear. For a comprehensive guide covering shapewear, exercise, and realistic timelines, see our How to Get an Hourglass Figure Without Surgery guide.

What Is an Hourglass Figure?

An hourglass figure is characterised by a defined waist with balanced bust and hip measurements — typically a waist that is 8–12 inches smaller than the bust and hips. With the right shapewear and styling, any body type can create this effect instantly.

1. Instant Hourglass: The Power of Shapewear

For Hip & Butt Enhancement

Our Hip Pad Shaper Panty is engineered specifically for this — built-in hip pads create instant width at the hips while the smooth outer finish stays invisible under clothing. It's the most effective non-surgical solution for hip dips and narrow hips.

For Butt Lifting

The Seamless Tummy Control & Butt Lifter uses circular knit technology to lift and round the glutes while simultaneously cinching the waist — two hourglass goals in one garment.

For Waist Cinching

Our Belly Slimming & Core Support Waist Trainer uses dual-compression neoprene to sculpt the midsection instantly. For maximum reduction, the Steel Boned Latex Waist Trainer Corset delivers up to 3 sizes of waist reduction. Browse our full waist trainers collection for all cinching options.

For Full Hourglass Sculpting in One Piece

The High Waist Butt Lifting Shapewear Shorts deliver 360° targeted compression — tummy control, butt lifting, and thigh slimming in one garment. For full-torso coverage, the Seamless Shapewear Bodysuit with Built-in Bra smooths from bust to hip while defining the waist. Browse our full women's shapewear collection for more options.

2. Exercises That Build an Hourglass Shape

Shapewear creates the effect instantly — exercise builds it permanently. Focus on three areas:

• Glutes (for hip and rear fullness): Hip thrusts, glute bridges, sumo squats — 3 sets of 15 reps, 3x per week
• Obliques (for waist definition): Side planks, Russian twists, oblique crunches — these create the visual narrowing at the waist
• Hips (for width): Side-lying leg raises, clamshells, lateral band walks — target the gluteus medius for outer hip development

Pair your workouts with our Waist Trimmer Belt to increase thermal output and support your core during training. For a full guide to waist training alongside exercise, read our Best Waist Trainers for Women UK guide.

3. Styling Tips for an Hourglass Silhouette by Outfit Type

• Belted waists: Always cinch at the narrowest point of your torso — even a thin belt over a dress creates instant waist definition
• A-line and fit-and-flare skirts: Emphasise the waist and flare at the hips, creating the classic hourglass line
• Wrap dresses: Naturally create a V-neckline and defined waist — universally flattering for all body types
• High-waisted bottoms: Elongate the torso and define the waist; pair with a tucked-in top for maximum effect
• Peplum tops: Add volume at the hip line, creating the illusion of wider hips on straighter figures
• Bodycon dresses: Pair with a tummy control & butt lifter underneath for a smooth, sculpted finish
• Tailored blazers: A nipped-in waist blazer instantly creates an hourglass silhouette over any outfit

Frequently Asked Questions

Can shapewear give you an hourglass figure?

Yes — while worn. The right combination of hip-enhancing and waist-cinching shapewear can create a dramatic hourglass effect instantly. Our Hip Pad Shaper Panty adds hip width, while our Waist Trainer cinches the midsection simultaneously.

What shapewear is best for hip dips?

Hip dips (the inward curve between the hip bone and thigh) are best addressed with padded hip shapewear. Our Hip Pad Shaper Panty fills in this area with built-in padding for a smooth, rounded hip line.

How long does it take to get an hourglass figure through exercise?

With consistent training (3x per week), most women see noticeable glute and hip development within 8–12 weeks. Waist definition through oblique training typically takes 6–8 weeks of consistent work. Shapewear delivers the effect immediately while you build the shape through exercise.

What is the best waist trainer for an hourglass figure?

For everyday wear, our Belly Slimming Waist Trainer is the most comfortable option. For maximum reduction on special occasions, the Steel Boned Latex Waist Trainer Corset delivers the most dramatic cinching effect.

What is the best sculpting bodysuit for an hourglass figure?

For curvy women wanting full-torso hourglass sculpting, a bodysuit with graduated compression — firmer at the waist, lighter at the hips — gives the most natural-looking definition. See our full guide to the best sculpting bodysuits for curvy women UK (2026) for tried and tested picks from XS to 6XL.

What clothes make you look more hourglass?

Wrap dresses, belted midi dresses, A-line skirts, and high-waisted trousers with a tucked-in top are the most effective styling choices. Pair any of these with a waist trainer or hip pad shaper underneath for a combined shapewear + styling effect.