Some of us are still carrying around those few extra pounds earned at the holidays, but never fear.
Fake it ‘til you make it with these tips that magically slim you, no dieting required.
Create long, lean lines
Wear dark heels with similarly dark pencil skirts and tights or midrise, bootleg jeans that hit right at your hip: Together these pieces skim your booty and thighs and elongate your legs. Layer with a long cardigan (as opposed to one that’s hip-length, which cuts you in half) to further lengthen your torso and cover your behind.
A great suggestion: Curvy Bootcut Jean, $59.50, Ann Taylor Loft (pictured above)
Dress your shape
Bulky, oversized clothing calls attention to your problem spots rather than hiding them. Wear fabrics with a little bit of stretch, which hug your curves and avoid pinching and puckering.
A great suggestion: BCBGMaxAzria Alberta Wrap Dress, $178, Zappos
Stay away from shiny fabrics
Fabrics like silks and satins reflect light, making you look thicker and accentuating bulges and flaws.
Embrace color!
Sure, head-to-toe black is flattering and easy, but we all like to lighten things up once in a while. Color is not your enemy; you just need to employ it smartly.
Some tips to remember:
- Dark colors hide while bright colors highlight, so wear a colorful piece that emphasizes your favorite feature.
- Layer lighter colors over darker ones, like a slim, bright tunic over a dark skirt or jeans.
- Look for color blocked tops, dresses, or skirts with diagonal lines that slim your torso or hips.
- If you’re still trepidatious, start small: Wear a colorful scarf with a dark outfit to draw attention to your face.
A great suggestion: LRK Colorblock Dress, $356, Saks Fifth Avenue
Accessorize smartly
Opt for a medium-sized, structured handbag rather than a large slouchy one, which just adds bulk to your frame and can look sloppy. Long, eye-catching necklaces draw attention northward, and can also lengthen your torso. Shoes with thicker heels balance out wider feet and ankles, while scoop front shoes—as opposed to ankle straps—lengthen your legs.
A great suggestion: Top-Handle Stitched Bag, $78, White House | Black Market
The Magic Melters:
Make sure these instant slenderizers are hanging in your closet:
Wrap dress. A cinched waist and v-neck is universally flattering to almost every body type, accentuating all the right areas.
Tailored blazer. A structured jacket that nips in at the waist adds shape to your outfit.
Wide, stretchy belt. Wear these belts with dresses or separates to give yourself a waist without the dreaded muffin top.
Two great suggestions:
Bop Basics Finance Blazer, $198, Shopbop
Ruffled Stretch Belt, $26, Kohl’s
What are your tips for dressing slimmer? Leave them in the comments!
