Body Shapes with Wide Hips: Not All Curves Are the Same
Wide hips are a trait many women share, but there are two main silhouette types they distinguish. First up: the classic hourglass figure, easily recognized by a slim waist and fuller bust and hips. Then there’s the pyramid shape, with a smaller bust, defined shoulders, and pronounced hips. Whichever group you belong to, the styling advice remains constant—if you prefer to tone down your hips, some clothing elements may not be your best friends.
The Culprits: Trendy Clothes That Make Hips Look Wider
Some popular fabrics and patterns tend to add volume where you’d rather keep things streamlined. Here’s what to be wary of:
- Shiny, satiny, and metallic fabrics, as well as draped, ruched, gathered, glittery, or knotted textures—these all emphasize volume. Instead, lean toward natural and lightweight materials, like cotton and linen.
- Horizontal stripes (especially bold ones!), oversized checks, polka dots, and wild animal prints—they all have the magic power of visually inflating your hips. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
- Color-blocking with too many saturated shades—this isn’t just a statement, it’s a billboard. Too many colors can break up your shape and make your hips look wider.
But the real party-crashers are certain cuts and styles that seem flattering until, well, you catch a photo from behind.
- Pleated Trousers & Paperbag Waist Pants/Shorts: These pieces have stormed women’s closets lately, but the cinched, gathered waistband adds volume at the hips and bottom in seconds. Instead, opt for straightforward high-rise pants, or if you can’t part with paperbag shapes, style them with a belt, roll the hems, slip on some heels, and top with an asymmetric cotton blouse for balance.
- Cropped Jackets and Short Blazers: The cropped leather jacket, chopped-off denim and blazer—all draw the eye right to your hips, whether you want it or not. If you love them, swap for their elongated relatives, like a soft trench, or balance a cropped blazer with high-waisted pants, shorts, or skirts, keeping everything in one soft color palette. Best combo? A beige cropped blazer with matching linen bermuda shorts.
- Skinny Jeans: The “slimming” effect of skinnies is a myth for wide hips—they grip every curve and actually amplify the width of your pelvis. Choose a bootcut or flare jean that slims down to the knee, then gently flares out, smoothing the hips and creating a balanced line.
- Baggy Jeans from the 2000s: Making a comeback, but not if you want to flatter your hips. Their ultra-low rise and loose fit broadens the silhouette and shortens the legs. A simple swap for straight-leg jeans does the trick. (If you’re a die-hard fan, rescue them by belting, rolling hems, slipping on elegant heels, and pairing with a fitted shirt.)
- Mom Jeans: Loved by retro fans, but these also have a loose fit on the hips and bottom, offering zero support for your silhouette. Go for high-waisted straight jeans to even things out, and if you’re inseparable from your mom jeans, make them work by cuffing the ankles, cinching the waist, and favoring a push-up fit for extra lift.
- Bodycon Dresses & Tight Tees: While some snug dresses are summer essentials, bodycon styles and second-skin t-shirts will accentuate every inch—not just at the chest, tummy, and backside, but your hips too. Instead, switch to slightly fitted dresses in dark, natural-fiber fabrics without prints or embellishments, and go for asymmetrical or relaxed tops to shift attention up. V-necks flatter small busts, while straight necklines suit fuller chests.
- Busy Sarongs: They might be trending on the beach and in town, but their colorful prints and draped, knotted styling add volume to your midsection. Choose a monochrome sarong in airy fabrics like linen or cotton for a touch of carefree elegance without bulking up your hips.
How to Dress for Generous Hips—Swap & Style Smarter
If visually streamlining your hips is the goal, it’s all about picking shapes, fabrics, and tones that bring harmony to your silhouette rather than drawing all eyes (and camera flashes) to your curves. Consider focusing on:
- Longer jackets and coats cut in fluid, natural materials
- High-waisted, straight-leg or subtly flared pants and jeans
- Dresses and skirts with a soft, skimming fit in darker shades, free of heavy prints or shiny textures
- Tops that highlight shoulders or collarbones, like asymmetrical cuts, V-necks, or modest crewnecks according to your bust size
- Keeping accessories and shoes refined to polish your overall look
The Takeaway
Fashion trends are fun, but not every viral piece will do your body justice—especially if you’re looking to flatter wide hips. By simply paying attention to cuts, colors, materials, and proportions, you can create balance and showcase your style without feeling self-conscious about your hips. After all, it’s not about hiding, but about highlighting your confidence in the best way for you. And hey, if the perfect pair of jeans is still out there, it absolutely exists—for every body.
Jack Mercer is a writer with a passion for American culture and everyday style. After spending years exploring the country’s hidden gems and fashion scenes, he found his voice sharing stories that celebrate the authentic spirit of modern America. When he’s not writing, you’ll find him hunting for vintage denim or enjoying a good bourbon on his front porch.
