Figure-flattering Tips

Here are some of my favorite ways to play up (or play down) your shape, with a little wardrobe magic:

Tummy tuckers 
The best way to camouflage your stomach is choosing pieces that float away from the belly – clothes that cling or pull around the middle will draw attention to the area. Jackets are another great choice – if they are fitted without being too tight or too boxy, they’ll give the illusion of an hourglass figure. 

Leg lengtheners 
Choose dresses or skirts that fall to the knee or just below and full-length pants that flow and don’t hug the legs too tightly. Select vertical (vs. horizontal) details. And a great pair of heels that match your pants (or nude pumps if you’re wearing a dress or skirt) really does the trick!

Hourglass envy? 
For many women, the narrowest part of their body is the waist. If you’re one of those, then emphasize the middle of your body and give yourself an hourglass shape with outfits that have a waistline (such as a seam or a wrap) or add a belt. Simple jackets that are well-fitted are great for hourglass shapes. Wrap dresses are often good choices.

Lacking curves? 
Add shape with clothes that have some volume. Just be sure to balance it with something figure-hugging for your other half, for example, a full skirt with a clingy top, or a ruffled top with a pencil skirt or slim-cut pants. Remember, though, that volume doesn’t mean oversized. You don’t want to look overwhelmed by clothes that are too big.

Want to minimize curves? 
Fit and structure are key words here. Often curvaceous women try to hide their curves with oversized clothing or boxy-shaped pieces. Instead, highlight your curves and flatter your best features with pieces that have more structure. Jackets do a nice job here, as do tops and dresses with V necks. Look for dresses and skirts that are fitted through the waist and flow down from there. Pants should flow from the hips in a straight line all the way down. 

Top heavy The first and most import thing is a good-fitting bra. Draw the attention to your lower half with volume or attention- grabbing detail in your skirts and pants. Avoid high necks; sweetheart and V necks are your best bet. Select tops in darker shades. And tone down your upper half with a smaller-sized purse.

Bottom heavy Just the opposite of “Top heavy” above, you want to draw attention upwards with an embellished top (with ruffles, a low neckline and other details) combined with a simple skirt or pants in a color that’s darker than your top. 

Patterned tops, jewelry or a scarf will also help draw the eye to the upper half. Tailored pants with slightly flared bottoms will flatter your lines, as will jackets that fall just below your widest point. 


Clothes that make the grade

Every woman needs certain essentials in her wardrobe.

Here are my top 10 pieces – they’re key for confidence building!



1. Neutral jacket - A fitted jacket covers a multitude of imperfections, and a neutral shade matches with everything. 



2. Black tank - A go-with-anything top that’s perfect under a sweater or jacket.



3. Jeans - Spend the cash for a great pair that fits and flatters.



4. Black pants - Choose a fabric that works during any season.



5. White T-shirt - Go for 3/4 sleeves so it works any time of year.



6. Khakis - Full length and simple is best for the most use. 



7. A-line skirt - Select neutral shades, one dark and one lighter.



8. Jewel-toned tops - Look for variety in solids and prints in a selection of attractive saturated colors.



9. Little black dress - Perfect to wear just about anywhere (dress up or down with accessories).



10. Accessories - Pick up some inexpensive pieces of jewelry, a few colorful scarves and bags and neutral pumps and flats to add some color and sparkle to your outfits.

Always consult your health care professional before making any significant changes in your dietary habits or your physical activity routines.


 Credit : Michelle Williams