The best looks for hourglass shapes

Hourglass shapes are curvy with a defined waist and bust. A one-piece outfit that makes the most of the waist is a good look for this figure, so try a figure hugging dress. Empire-style shaped dresses are good, as they accentuate the top half and skim the bottom. Deep V necklines are great, but try and avoid high, round necks or bulky knits on your top half. Patterns work well on the bottom half with a plain top if you have a particularly big bust Photograph: Rob Biddulph

New Look 80s dress Strapless with diamanté waist detail is perfect for an hourglass. £35 New Look, 0500 454094, www.newlook.co.uk Photograph: PR

River Island dress This body shape can take a figure-hugging dress. £49.99 River Island, www.riverisland.com Photograph: PR

Sci-fi Dorothy Perkins dress The metallic panelling is flattering and strapless styles work on hourglass body shapes. £40 Dorothy Perkins, 0845 121 4515, www.dorothyperkins.com Photograph: PR

Sci-fi Roksanda Ilincic satin sheath This dress offers more support for curvier figures. £1350 Browns, 020 7514 0000, www.brownsfashion.com Photograph: PR

Sci-fi dress by George at Asda This slinky one shoulder sheath dress is perfect for balanced curves. £16 George, 0844 824 3000, www.asda.co.uk Photograph: PR

Trousers See by Chloe Pleat front and high waist elongate the figure, wear with killer heels. £225 Net a Porter, 08456 75 13 21, www.net-a-porter.com Photograph: PR

Miss Selfridge blazer Double-breasted fastening clings at the waist and highlights the nipped in shape. £50 Miss Selfridge, www.missselfridge.com Photograph: PR

Miss Selfridge biker jacket Cropped at the waist to accentuate at narrowest point. £50 Miss Selfridge, www.missselfridge.com Photograph: PR

ASOS Black Label boots Great boots to wear with a fitted dress. £165 ASOS, www.asos.com Photograph: PR

Topshop studded ankle boot Heels look great on hourglasses, so experiment with this tougher looking pair. £150 Topshop, 0845 121 4519, www.topshop.com Photograph: PR

Prada platforms Over the top party shoes. £505 Prada, 020 7647 5000 Photograph: PR