Wearing the right style can make a huge difference to how we appear. Most of us will have noticed that certain styles or colours can considerably alter our silhouette. Some clothes will make us look bigger than we actually are and others will have the opposite effect. I'm assuming that most of us would prefer the latter! So let's check out some tips on how, with the right clothes, we can have the figure we desire!
Avoid loose fitting clothes as they are not going to make you look any slimmer. Most women that are overweight have a tendency to choose baggy clothes thinking that they will hide those bigger bits. However, this is not the case or rather not always. Next time you go shopping, don't automatically go for loose fitting garments. Try a variety of cuts and styles and you're sure to be surprised by the result. Clothes that you were convinced wouldn't suit you, will be flattering. So, don't be afraid to climb out of your comfort zone and try something new.
Avoid the popular fast fashion chains. Here the clothes tend to be a narrower fit and there are fewer sizes leaving you feeling frustrated and despondent. Why put yourself through that? Go to shops that cater for real women. There you will find styles that fit and flatter your curves while hiding the bits you'd rather disguise. However, this doesn't mean you can't be fashionable. Choose the right shops and you'll find styles that suit you and your personality.
OK so let's cut to the chase; how do you dress to look slimmer? First of all you've got to look and see which bits you want to hide and which bits you want to show off.
1. Belly Dance
If it's your belly that's troubling you, there are ways to dress that will help you look slimmer. Wear a loose fitting top but don't pair it with baggy trousers or a loose fitting skirt as this will just make your bottom half appear bigger. If you have slim legs, you could wear leggings or fitted pants. A straight maxi skirt is another great option. Avoid belts as these will only emphasize that which you're trying to hide. Accessories are also important to think about. Avoid long necklaces as these will, again, emphasize your belly. A striking necklace that stops at the décolletage or statement earrings are a better choice and will bring the gaze up where you want it!
2. Wrap it Up
If you have big shoulders or a large bust, the best way to appear slimmer is to wear a scarf or wrap that will fall to the left or right thus hiding bits you don't want to emphasize. A V neckline is always a flattering choice for you big busted gals. Never go for spaghetti straps as this will only make wide shoulders appear even broader. Opt for tops with wide straps. Accentuating your waist will lend balance to your silhouette. A peplum top is ideal.
3. Disarming
If it's your arms you're worried about, with the right clothes you can disguise those bits you want to hide and make them look slimmer too. What you shouldn't do is opt for tight fitting tops, strapless tops or low cut tops. A straight fitting top which doesn't cling to the arms is the ideal style. Opt for darker shades on the top and lighter colours on your bottom half. When it comes to accessories, it is probably better to avoid necklaces and bracelets which will draw the eye to your arms. A brightly coloured belt is the ideal accessory for you. If you want to wear a dress, the best style to hide your arms is a tunic, be it mini or maxi. The loose fitting arms won't stop where you don't want and the dress will show off the rest of your figure.
4. Disguise those Thighs
If it's your hips or thighs that you want to hide, you may think that a fitted top and loose fitting trousers is the best way to dress. However, this is completely wrong. Pants that follow the size of your hips will make them appear bigger and the fitted top rather than emphasizing your waist, will accentuate your hips. It would be better to wear pants that taper at the calves and a loose fitting top. This choice will make you appear slimmer as it will make your legs appear longer and the style of top will take the attention away from your hips. If you want to wear a dress don't opt for a fitted silhouette but don't opt for a loose fit either. The ideal style is fitted at the hips with wide sleeves which will have the effect of making your waist look slim and balance the shoulders and hips. Another option is an A line dress which is narrow at the waist and opens out downwards thus hiding your hips and thighs and will look cute too. A statement necklace will add balance.
5. Distraction Attraction
If it's your calves you're concerned about, you can easily take the attention away from them with these easy to follow tips. Avoid very short dresses, skirts and shorts. A maxi skirt is the perfect disguise but you can wear shorter skirts too. Wear a midi as long as it hits below the widest part of your calves. If not, then pair with knee-length boots for a flattering look. Try a knee-length skirt with heels. Make sure the shoes are nude, if going bare legged, or the same colour as your tights so as not to break the line. A pair of black opaque tights is always a flattering option. You could always wear a strapless or backless top in order to attract attention elsewhere!
6. Belt Up
Finally, if you find that you've put on weight all over, rather than just in particular spots, you'll have to find a way to create curves. For example, a belt could help you hide some imperfections and create the illusion of a slim waist!
