Whether it’s to disguise a large stomach, thick thighs, wide hips, chunky legs, big bust or fat arms, there are a few style secrets which can give the illusion of a slimmer silhouette.
Faking a slim body requires know-how when it comes to cuts, colors, fabrics and clever accessories — and adding a healthy dose of shapewear. For example, co-ordinating colors within one tonal family is an instant body slimmer, so is a great pair of high-heel shoes.
Oversized Accessories
For distracting attention away from lumps and bumps, go oversized when it comes to accessories; a chunky necklace, stacked bangles or a giant handbag. Elongate the body with a very long necklace such as multi-strand chains and pearls, or a long scarf, hanging over the torso. Wear an oversized belt to cinch-in the waist and give the illusion of a smaller waistline.
High-heel Shoes
Nothing gives the appearance of slimmer legs than a pair of stiletto heels. High heels lengthen lower limbs and slim down the ankles and calves, they also change the center of gravity, improving posture. Ankle boots, on the other hand, will fatten calves and thicken ankles. Wearing the same shoe color (or tights) as a particular outfit will also add length to legs.
Shapewear Underwear
If there is one piece of clothing which can take pounds off a woman’s body in seconds, it’s shapewear. Whether it’s magic knickers, thigh slimmers or a good push-up support bra, foundation garments can give the illusion of a waist, smooth and flatten the stomach area, slim hips and thighs. Go one step further with tops with built in tummy control to minimize a large stomach.
According to the Daily Mail article “How to Fake Yourself Slimmer” (October 19, 2009) Soozie Jenkinson, head of lingerie design for British chain store Marks & Spencer says that "Shapewear is the easiest way to change your silhouette without visiting the gym.”
Jeans and Trousers
The trusted boot-cut will lengthen legs, tapered trousers and jeans are the enemy (they shorten legs and add bulk to the middle). Darker colors such as black, navy, charcoal and berry tones will slim down hips and thighs. Large and lower set pockets on jeans, will give the illusion of a smaller behind. Wear a size that actually fits (and not squeezes) around the waist , to avoid the dreaded muffin top and keep a smoother stomach line.
Outfit LengthsWhen it comes to slimming down arms, 3/4 sleeves are the most flattering. Avoid cap sleeves and sleeveless if afflicted with the scurge of middle-age, bingo wings. A hem length on a skirt or dress is more flattering when finishing on-the-knee, as opposed to the calf. A longline sweater or cardigan will make a figure look leaner than one which finishes around the waistline. Big busts can be minimized by wearing tops with a deep V-neckline.
Color, Pattern and Fabric
Wearing a single block color will make a woman's body look longer and leaner. Dark colors have the ability to disguise lumps and bumps, lighter colors will add weight rather than lose it. Quality, heavier weight fabrics that skim, not cling, will help to define a slimmer silhouette. Clever layering such as a top, waistcoat and jacket in a fine but good quality fabric will serve to slim rather than add bulk. Diagonal and vertical stripes can slim down a figure providing the print is not too big. Contrary to popular belief, horizontal stripes can also give the illusion of taking off pounds.
After taking into account some clever dressing it may also be time to have some other tricks up the sleeve. Changing a hairstyle to slim down a face or adding a fake tan for longer, leaner limbs are two more ways to fake being slimmer.
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