Dress To Look Thinner

If you're like me, you've gained a few extra pounds over the holidays and will probably hold on to them through the winter season until its bathing suit push time! The horror!! To be truthful, no matter what time of year, the goal is to look taller and thinner. Follow these easy, practical steps and you'll notice a difference -

Underneath matters! A properly fitted bra is the first step. Also, avoid panty line bumps and bulges by wearing a thong or g-string. I know - they're so uncomfortable! Try Hankie Pankies. They don't ride up and you'll never worry about panty lines again. Finally, get a little extra tummy or bulge control with good shape wear. A cami or shaper by Spanx will remove inches.

Avoid bulky materials like mohair, angora, brocade, taffeta, crushed velvet, satin or flannel. Fabrics with a touch of spandex will help slim and shape you. Opt for lighter fabrics such as jersey, cashmere, fine cotton, wool gabardine, silk, or denim.

Show some skin up top! A V-neckline will draw the eye away from your midsection. Displaying skin between your chin and chest (within reason) will make your upper half look longer.

Stick with one color on top and bottom.

Use your jewelry to draw the eye away from problem areas. For instance, bangles and cocktail rings draw the eye to the wrist instead of the upper arms. Bib necklaces and chandelier earrings highlight your face. And, long necklaces add length to your neck and bring attention to the front of your body.

Wear darker, streamlined denim with a boot cut or straight leg. Avoid embellishments and crazy pockets.

Opt for a jacket over jeans or fitted pants. The jacket should not be bulky. Stick with clean lines and narrow lapels. Wear the jacket open to counteract excess curves.

Chunky shoes can make legs look stubbier in skirts. Instead, wear a high heel with a pointy toe. To make your legs look longer, choose a color that matches your skin tone.

These tips will help you look taller and thinner in a pinch. You also need to dress in a way that creates balance between your upper and lower halves. This will help you achieve a longer, leaner line - or silhouette. To get specific information regarding the best way to do that for your body type, read my articles about dressing the Pear, Curvy, Straight, and Inverted Triangle figures.