X-line silhouette
An outfit outline with width above and below a clearly defined waist, suggesting the shape of an X.
What does X-line silhouette mean?
An X-line silhouette is broader around the shoulders or upper body, narrows at the natural waist, and opens out again below. It can come from one dress, or from a jacket and skirt or trousers worn together. A belt is one possible tool, but seams, shaped panels and contrasting garment volumes can create the same visual structure.
What it looks like in real life
A coral dress has lightly structured shoulders, a close waist and a full skirt. Even without a belt, the eye travels inward at the middle and outward again at the hem. You could make a similar outline with a shaped blazer and wider trousers already in your wardrobe.
What people often get wrong
X-line describes the clothing's visible outline, not the wearer's body type or a rule about which bodies may wear it. An A-line mainly widens toward the hem; an X-line has a clearer inward waist between two wider areas. Neither is inherently more flattering for everyone.
How to use the idea
Try a top or jacket with some upper shape, define the waist only as much as feels comfortable, and compare a fuller lower piece with a straighter one. Take a quick full-length outfit photo to see the overall outline rather than judging one garment alone.