It’s always challenging to dress in an outfit that will make you look longer and leaner when you are a petite and plus-size woman. Just because it’s challenging though doesn’t mean it can’t be done. You just have to be more strategic. Let’s begin!
Dress in a column of color
Choosing to dress in a single, harmonious color from top to bottom, such as an elegant all-black ensemble, can create a continuous line that gives the impression of a slimmer and more elongated silhouette. Or go for a monochromatic ensemble that matches your body’s natural shades or select a single color palette that complements your skin tone, helping you achieve a sleek and slender appearance.
Want to know more ways that could work for you? Continue reading!
Don’t “split” your body in half
To achieve a slimmer look, it’s best to avoid wearing two contrasting colors together. The two colors split the body in half and make you look shorter. The two colors usually separate, as well, at the body part that you want to hide, usually the waist. Because of that, the dividing line between the two colors tend to emphasize the body part you want to hide, usually the belly.
Wear clothes that fit your body
Choosing clothes that fit your body properly is key to achieving a longer and leaner appearance. Well-fitted clothing enhances your natural proportions and creates a streamlined silhouette.
Avoid boxy clothing
Stop covering up with boxy clothing because it’ll hide your shape and make you appear larger than you actually are. Go for clothes that, we said in the previous slide, actually fit your body.
V-necks are a great choice
Selecting V-neck tops can help create the illusion of a longer and slimmer silhouette. They draw the eye downward and elongate the neck, making you appear taller and more streamlined.
Avoid large prints
Large prints can trick the eye on where to look so it does hide the features you don’t want people to see. Unfortunately, most of the printed tops or dresses available for plus-size women have ridiculously large or very busy prints and are just not appealing to wear. Avoid them because you don’t want to be associated with unappealing fashion.
Choose a smaller print
Opt for smaller prints when aiming for a slimmer appearance, as they can help create a visually more streamlined and flattering look. These patterns can minimize the perception of width and enhance your overall silhouette.
Stay away from a huge print
Avoid wearing clothing with oversized prints if you want to achieve a slimmer appearance. These prints can visually add bulk and detract from a more streamlined look.
Go for muted tones and clothes that go together
Choosing a cohesive color palette with muted tones can help you achieve a slimmer appearance. When your clothing complements each other, it creates a more streamlined and elongated look, enhancing your overall silhouette.
If you have to “talk yourself” into liking an item, don’t buy it
Look at yourself in the mirror and ask yourself if you like how the clothes look on you. If you even hesitate for a second, then you shouldn’t be wearing it. You need to feel good in your clothes, too.
Avoid high-contrast colors
High-contrast colors are the colors that are directly opposite of each other in the color wheel. For example, avoid wearing red and green together or purple and yellow together. It’s going to scream, ‘Look at me,’ and you don’t really want that kind of attention.
Wear clothing with similar tones
Opt for clothing with similar tones to create a more harmonious and slimming effect. This type of outfit gives you a more cohesive and put-together look, which also makes you look and feel good.
Wear a scoop-neck top
The scoop-neck top is a great way to draw attention away from the large belly and hips. Instead, it draws the eyes towards the face. If you’re wearing a scoop-neck top, wear statement earrings or a great hat to keep the attention on your face.
Avoid a crew neck
For plus-size women, it’s often advisable to avoid crew neck shirts, as they can make the neck appear shorter and the upper body bulkier. There are some exceptions but for most cases, avoid this neckline.
Wear a necklace
If you prefer wearing crew neck shirts because you feel that V-neck tops are too revealing, wear a V-shaped necklace with it. It’ll give you the same effect that V-neck shirts can give. Just make sure that you wear a necklace that goes down to your chest and not your belly. If it’s long enough that it stops at the belly, then your belly is going to be emphasized.
Avoid bootcut or flare-leg pants
The issue of bootcut and flare-leg pants can be a lengthy one. Sometimes, it works for some petite women. Most of the time, it doesn’t. It is generally recommended to steer clear of bootcut or flared pants, as they can visually shorten the legs. When you’re trying it on, look at yourself in the mirror. If you believe you look good, then go for these pants. If not, stay away from them.
Choose a straight-leg pant
The straight legs will create a more elongated and slimming effect so it’s always best for petite, plus-sized women to wear these types of pants. It’s always a good choice when you want to wear pants.
Tapered-length pants are also flattering
Opting for tapered-length pants is an excellent choice for petite women. These pants narrow towards the ankle for an elongated look. If your legs are short, then this is a great way to make them look longer.
Create a waist
When you’re a plus-sized woman with an apple-shaped body, a waist isn’t very defined. You will have to define it. You can do this by wearing a wrap or empire waist top or dress.
Add a belt
If you want to wear a belt, wear it higher just under the bust to define that waist. If you wear the belt on your waist, which is the widest part of your body, then it’ll just draw attention to your belly.
Peplum tops are a good choice
Peplum tops are a stylish option to define your waist. They feature a flared, ruffled fabric at the waistline, creating the appearance of an hourglass figure and adding emphasis to your waist.
Wear a proper size bra
Wearing a properly fitted bra is crucial for plus-size women. A well-fitting bra not only provides essential support and comfort but also helps improve posture and create a more flattering overall silhouette. It’s essential to get professionally measured to ensure you’re wearing the right size.
Find your favorite bra
Finding your favorite bra is a highly personal process. It involves trying on different styles, sizes, and brands to discover what offers the best comfort, support, and confidence for your unique body. Don’t hesitate to explore various options until you find the one that makes you feel your best.
Match your shoe color to your pants or skin tone
Matching your shoe color to your pants or skin tone can create a visually elongating effect, making your legs appear longer and contributing to a more cohesive and slimming look. It’s a great way to achieve a polished and flattering appearance.
Stand up straight
Maintaining good posture and standing up straight can indeed make you appear both longer and slimmer. It not only adds inches to your height but also contributes to a more confident and elegant overall presence.
Wear a scarf to create a vertical line
Wearing a scarf can be a stylish way to create a vertical line in your outfit. It can elongate your appearance and draw the eye up and down, contributing to a more streamlined and visually flattering look.
Wear bracelets
Wearing bracelets, particularly those with a narrower or more delicate design, can draw attention to your wrists and create a contrast that can make your arms appear slimmer. However, the effect on your overall appearance may be subtle, and using fashion choices like clothing and accessories together can be more effective in achieving a slimmer look.
Expose your wrists
Exposing your wrists by rolling up your sleeves or wearing three-quarter-length sleeves can create a more balanced and slender appearance. It draws attention away from the upper arm and can make your arms seem more delicate and trim. Wear it with a dainty bracelet to complete the look.
Wear all the same colors but different tones
Wearing different tones of the same color can create a cohesive and visually elongating look. It maintains a harmonious color scheme while allowing for subtle variations that can add depth to your outfit and make you appear more streamlined and put together. Wear dark blue pants with a light blue top and paired with a scarf in a different blue tone.
Find the right belt for you
When selecting a belt for plus-sized women, it’s essential to choose the right width and style to flatter your figure. Opt for wider belts that cinch at the waist to define and accentuate your natural curves. Belts with some stretch or elasticity can be comfortable and provide a better fit. Additionally, consider dark-colored belts that blend with your outfit to create a more elongated and slimming effect.
Choose vertical stripes
Opt for clothing with vertical stripes, as they can make you appear taller and leaner. Vertical stripes can also be incorporated into accessories like scarves, and bags that can add a stylish and trendy element to your outfit.
High-waisted bottoms are a good choice
High-waisted pants, skirts, or shorts can help define your waist and create the appearance of longer legs. Ensure that your high-waisted bottoms fit well and are tailored to your body shape. They should sit at your natural waist, not too high or too low.
Choose the right underwear
Invest in well-fitting, supportive undergarments to smooth out any lumps or bumps. Some people prefer certain styles or materials over others, so it’s essential to find what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Structured blazers
A well-fitted blazer can help create the illusion of a smaller waist. Opt for a blazer that fits well and is tailored to your body shape. It should be snug at the shoulders and chest without being too tight, and it should create a clean, streamlined silhouette.
Contour makeup
Use makeup techniques to define your cheekbones and jawline. Contour makeup is a technique used to enhance the bone structure of your face and create the illusion of a slimmer appearance.
Find the right hairstyle
A hairstyle with volume at the crown can make your face appear longer and slimmer. Layers around your face can soften the angles and create the illusion of a slimmer face. Side-swept bangs or layers that start at or below your cheekbones can be especially flattering.
Shapewear can be helpful
Consider using shapewear garments like Spanx or control-top pantyhose for special occasions when you want a smoother silhouette. Avoid sizing down too much, as overly tight shapewear can be uncomfortable and may create bulges.
Avoid bulky accessories
Large accessories can overwhelm your look, so opt for smaller, streamlined pieces. Large or bulky accessories can add visual weight and make you look heavier.
Crossbody bags
Opt for crossbody bags to draw attention away from your midsection. By selecting the right bag style, coordinating it with your outfit, and paying attention to details, you can create a flattering and cohesive look.
Optical illusion accessories
Consider belts or accessories with optical illusions like bows or buckles to create a focal point. Optical illusion accessories can create visual effects that make you appear slimmer by diverting attention and playing with proportions.
Smile
A genuine smile is one of your best accessories; it instantly brightens your face and makes you more attractive. A genuine smile is one of the most effective and universally flattering accessories you can wear to complete any look.
Watch Cathy explain each look in the video
Cathy has a heart for women to look and feel their best no matter their size. She’s a delight to listen to and has wonderful tips!
Petite Plus-Size Fashion Expert Shows How to Instantly Look 10 Pounds Slimmer
Jaclyn Abergas
10.11.23
It’s always challenging to dress in an outfit that will make you look longer and leaner when you are a petite and plus-size woman. Just because it’s challenging though doesn’t mean it can’t be done. You just have to be more strategic. Let’s begin!
Dress in a column of color
Choosing to dress in a single, harmonious color from top to bottom, such as an elegant all-black ensemble, can create a continuous line that gives the impression of a slimmer and more elongated silhouette. Or go for a monochromatic ensemble that matches your body’s natural shades or select a single color palette that complements your skin tone, helping you achieve a sleek and slender appearance.
Want to know more ways that could work for you? Continue reading!