5 styling tips for women with wide hips

While we never like dictating how anyone should dress, we are here to share some helpful tips gathered from our expert fashion team over the years… This time we’re discussing the good old ‘pear-shape’ conundrum: What to wear when you have big hips, plus how to flatter this body shape the best. Take note from Jennifer Lopez, Salma Hayek, and Blake Lively with our guide for wide-hipped girls.

Salma Hayek at the 2023 Golden Globe Awards

Photo: Getty Images

Salma Hayek attends the 2023 Golden Globes

1. Focus on the neckline.

Certain cuts will suit pear-shapes better, as they emphasize the shoulders. Wide necklines and off-the-shoulder styles will visually widen shoulders and draw attention upwards.

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Roman

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Solace London

Satin gown Red

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Ariella

Bardot Pleated Fit & Flare Maxi Dress Green

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Rotate

Floral-applique strapless gown Blue

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Jennifer Lopez wears a flattering peach colored dress that accentuates her waistline

Image: Getty

2. Accentuate your waist

Flaunt what you’ve got! Accentuate your hourglass silhouette with a belted dress, wrap dress, or a fit and flare cut. It’s a great way to nip in the waist and make the most of your figure.

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Rotate

Satin Wrap Dress with Polka Dot Print size 38

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Fat Face FatFace Erin Blue Beachwear Wrap Dress

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Fat Face

FatFace Erin Blue Beachwear Wrap Dress

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FatFace

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Roman

Ombre Plisse Tie Wrap Dress Purple

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£55.00 ~~£65.00~~

Roman

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AllSaints

Womens Polyester Hanako Print Mesh Wrap Maxi Dress, Size: UK 6/US 2 Brown

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AllSaints

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3. Make the most of wide leg pants

While it may seem counterintuitive, wide leg pants will complement wider hips and a pear shaped frame. Create a flattering silhouette by combining them with a tighter fitting top or a cropped top to draw attention to your waist.

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Maesa Pleated Woven Wide-leg Cargo Pants - Green

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Dries Van Noten

Printed Grain De Poudre Wide-leg Pants - Green

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Constance Pleated Cotton-canvas Wide-leg Pants - Green

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+ Net Sustain Ember Stretch Organic Cotton-terry Track Pants - Blue

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4. Find the right underwear

A padded bra or push-up bra will add volume to a small bust, while a good pair of support knickers will smooth and tone the hips under clothes.

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Calvin Klein Underwear

Calvin White Underwear Ribbed Bikini Bottoms, XS

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£20.00 ~~£50.00~~

Reiss

-57%

The Upside

Black Upside Colour-block Racerback Bra, XS

Delivery: Delivery costs apply

£28.00 ~~£65.00~~

Reiss

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The Upside

Check Sports Bra, Brown, XS

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£30.00 ~~£75.00~~

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Ann Summers

Fearless longline lace non padded bra in black

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£26.00

ASOS

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5. Opt for tops in vivid colors or intricate prints

This will balance out your figure by drawing more attention to your top half and making your shoulders and chest appear slightly broader than they are.