Look thinner with these fashion tips

Feature

It seems that no matter how happy we are with our bodies, we always want to look or appear slimmer. Instead of saying you’re going to go to the gym and never getting around to it, use these clever fashion tricks to help you look slimmer and sleeker.


1. Wear wide-leg trousers
While at first it would seem that wide-leg trousers would make you look bigger than you are, the wide-leg style in most cases creates a nice straight line, giving the illusion of longer legs. This, in turn, makes you look taller and is very flattering.


2. Wear bootcut or slightly flared jeans
Skinny jeans might be fashionable this season but not all women are blessed with Kate Moss legs. Jeans are an everyday item and because they’re worn so often, they should be the clothing that we put the most effort into buying. Bootcut jeans, or those with a slight flare, are going to be flattering on every body type. Again, we’re going for long, clean lines to create a soft silhouette, which adds up to a pretty, slimming look.


3. Don’t get caught up on size
A huge and very common mistake when shopping is that we get too caught up on the number on the tag and not the fit. Sizing runs different in all stores, so make sure you try on a variety of sizes to get the best fit. Wearing something that’s too small for you can make you look a lot bigger than you actually are, so choosing the right fit for your shape is very important.


4. The longer the better
One of the worst things for your figure is trousers which are too short and cut off the leg. The longer the better, so make sure that your trousers are long enough to cover most of your shoe. Long lines create long legs, which always convey a slimmer look.


5. Pointed toe shoes
A pair of secret weapons. Pointed-toe shoes are the finishing touch when you are trying to dress slim. Whether they’re flats or heels, pointed-toe shoes allow the length of the pant to flow into a point, which allows the line we’ve created to end in a natural place. Rounded-toe shoes tend to cut off the line, making legs look stumpy.


6. Wear dark colours
Dressing in dark colours is very slimming. Instead of the traditional black, opt for something a little more unexpected, like charcoal or navy. If you’d like something other than a solid colour item, try a dark woven tweed or subtle pinstripe.
Try not to dress in head-to-toe dark colours. If you’re wearing dark trousers, pair them with a fun, brightly coloured or contrasting top. Remember, you’re dressing slim, not going to a funeral.


7. Don’t be clingy
When shopping for trousers, look for ones made of heavier fabrics so they don’t cling to your leg. There’s nothing worse than fabrics which cling too tightly to your body and draw attention to all of your flaws. Choose fabrics that are light and flowing, which tend to pull away from the body.


8. Focus on your assets
Every single one of us has at least one asset that we’d like to play up. If you have gorgeous legs, go for a nice full knee-length skirt. If you’ve got nicely toned arms, go for sleeveless tops. Got a slim waist? Play it up with a blazer that cinches at the waist or add one of this season’s belts to pull it in.


9. Back pockets
These are something of an afterthought for most of us. The rear pocket size can really make or break a pair of jeans. Pockets can either make your bum look bigger or can really flatter it. When shopping, look for jeans that have decent-size pockets, relative to the size of the seat. Steer very clear of tiny pockets that can make your bottom look huge. Instead look for fun cargo flap pockets or bigger pockets that are situated lower on the jeans to make your bottom look higher. Try on as many styles and washes as possible to ensure you get the best look.


10. A-Line isn’t for all of us
A-line dresses and skirts were once known as the skirts that best flattered every shape. Well, that’s not always true. A-line dresses can sometimes create a tent effect and give you a shapeless look which can seem to add extra pounds. Always try on a dress before buying to find out if A-line works for you.


Picture caption: Flared or bootcut jeans finished off with pointed shoes creates a slim look.

MyVillage, 30th June