This is a TOTALLY embarrassing trick, but when items get impossibly stuck on me, I use a hanger hook to use leverage at the nape of my neck; lift straight up gently. Things fit me but get stuck at a bad angle on the torso. Sweaty sports bra, fitted top, clingy wispy fragile top -- they all disengage with this aid, easily, no heavy breathing required

Life is not easy as an petite hourglass and lends itself to a rich fantasy life. Streamlined dressing would be fantastic!

Bit late to this post, but I am nodding like an idiot to the comments above. Has anyone any suggestions what and how to wear for hourglass with short waist and a strong shoulder line?

...you feel like your body type is decades out of style--you sometimes lament that you should have been a young adult in the 60s (instead of, in my case, just being born in them).

Oh my, yes to ALL of the above. So sad to realize that I lived through the 80s and 90s pretty much as a frump because I had to steer clear of bombshell territory constantly. Still do, but I can handle such situations better now and have more freedom to choose how and where I have to "appear."

So many sad chuckles too to the one about tucking button fronts into pencil skirts. It was such freedom once it dawned on me that it wasn't a law I had to follow! Also learned to avoid many skinny-belted looks, such as over longer shirts, sweaters, and tunics.

Loulou, I am in the same camp.

One thing I am (re?) discovering right now is stylish "gear" wear, especially with raglan shoulders. I find that it accommodates the features you list pretty well (but it can be long at the bottom, which can be its own issue, depending). But since your question is quite general, don't know if that would work in any of your life contexts?

Another IT longing for just a little more waist, but this thread is reminding me that every shape has its trials with fit.

Also it made me laugh pretty hard. Thank you, hourglass ladies!

This thread somehow got revived and is SO MUCH BETTER than stand up comedy!! I could take a dozen of your quotes and make them into refrigerator magnets that reflected the story of my wardrobe life at work and play. Much unanticipated drama happens to hourglasses ... like it or not.

Love this thread, I am an hourglass shape and like most of you, the best looks can be a bit va va voom for every day.

In saying that, you have to go with it, because trying to hide it looks frumpy and aging.....

I find a boat neck is great for a covered up but non-sexy look!!

Love this thread, I am an hourglass shape and like most of you, the best looks can be a bit va va voom for every day.

In saying that, you have to go with it, because trying to hide it looks frumpy and aging.....

I find a boat neck is great for a covered up but flattering look!

And capri pants work on me - I am tall. I kid myself maybe, but I think they work with curves if they are well cut, without pockets and skimming. You can rock them for a 50s or 60s look.

Yeap! Hourglass gal right here!

Ughh, as much as I loveee my shape (my friends envy me), it is so hard to find clothes that fit "just right". I almost always have to have my jeans tailored at the waist. I look sexy in almost anything even without trying. LOL.

Nothing to add, but loved reading everyone of these... The best part of losing weight was that as it happened my chest and hips shrank in unison,and every time i measured they were equal to each other!