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What Kind of Clothes Will Help Make Me Look Thinner?

Diana Bocco
Diana Bocco

The way you dress can make a big difference in the way you look. Not only can you appear more professional or more relaxed depending on what you wear, but you can also look thinner depending on your choice of wardrobe. If doesn't matter what your dress size is, or whether you are bottom-heavy or simply out of proportion, by adjusting your attire you can make a big impact on your looks.

Probably the number one mistake people make is to wear clothes that don't fit. Wearing larger sizes does not make you look thinner. In fact, it will make you look even larger. On the same basis, wearing a size 12 if you are a 14 will not make look like a 12. All it will do is to accentuate every single area in which your body is hiding extra fat. Wearing clothes that fit may seem like an obvious answer, but if you want to appear thinner, this should be the first thing you do. The same holds true for fabric. Avoid clingy outfits (Lycra and silk are difficult to wear properly) and instead choose pre-shaped outfits that will give you a general outline and make you look thinner.

Avoid pleated skirts to look thinner on the bottom.
Avoid pleated skirts to look thinner on the bottom.

If you need to look smaller on the bottom, avoid pleated skirts (they make your stomach look bigger) and instead choose A-lineskirts. If you need to hide bulges, choose loose-fit and low-ride jeans. With low-ride jeans, however, make sure to wear a top that is long enough. Boot-cut pants will balance large hips, and simple designs without a lot of extra pockets will also make you appear thinner. Avoid slim-fit jeans if you have large thighs, and opt for darker shades to minimize trouble spots.

Choose loose-fit jeans to hide bulges.
Choose loose-fit jeans to hide bulges.

If you are trying to make your upper body look thinner, avoid tank tops in summer, as they emphasize your arms. On the other hand, if your arms are toned, showcasing them will take the focus away from your problem areas. Boatneck tops are great for balancing your body, and something you should definitively use if you have good-defined shoulders.

Finally, good posture is key to looking thinner. Throw your shoulders back and do not hunch. Keep your head up high and look confident. Wear heels if at all possible, especially with jeans, as they elongate your figure and make you look thinner overall.

Choosing clothes that make you look good also depends on choosing ways that make your clothes feel good. And when it comes to maintaining your wardrobe's appearance and comfort, the best detergent sheets are the ones that make laundry a breeze

Discussion Comments

anon321093

About men's fashion: Men have more choices then they think. We in America have become lazy in the knowledge of men's fashion.

anon321092

Not only can I show you what to wear, and how to do your make up, I can also show you the perfect hairstyle for your face and shoes that can be anything but boring. Sending you to some of these "not knowing what is going on with the individuals look" will give you general information that will not work on everyone. Fashion is specific to the individual and without the knowledge you can give the wrong advice.

celt56

@anon189871: There is no shame in wearing a nicely padded bra to add a little to the bustline. Also, choose tops that have a little detail around the neckline to draw attention to your face, which you will have beautifully made up. If you're not hip on making up your face, have a beautician show you your best look.

As for the heavy arms and hips (I know the feeling) avoid too-short sleeves, cap sleeves, or sleeveless tops. I buy men's tees and polos from Land's End, because the sleeves are longer and the length covers my hips, yet they're not too blousey. Wear shoes that you can walk in with confidence, with a straight back and head up.

anon189871

So what about if you have big arms, big legs and hips, but a small chest?

anon110910

I bought some bootcut pants and they are really big, so i was wondering if wearing big clothes help you look slim. i mean they fit my hip although i have to wear a belt with them and they are very loose. So how will they make me look.

love0876

travel28- I agree that ultra revealing clothing is rarely a good way to make yourself appear thinner. However, I believe that revealing clothing has its time and place and can be done tastefully.

If you want to wear a dress or shirt with a plunging neckline, make sure that you pick a flattering color. A black or dark brown is often best. Material is also crucial. Stay away from very clingy materials such as jersey. Pick materials that are softer and will move with your body. Cotton is always a good option.

travel28

I think that it is a good rule of thumb to avoid very revealing clothing if you want to look thinner. Many women think that revealing clothing emphasizes their best features and makes them look their best. However, revealing clothing is very unforgiving and draws attention to problem areas.

Avoid spaghetti strap tank tops or tops with low necklines if you have a heavier upper body. Avoid short skirts or shorts if you have a heavier lower body. Additionally, avoid skin-tight clothing. Tight clothing clings to the body and shows everything.

You don't have to dress ultra-conservatively, just be mindful of what you are putting on your body and pick clothing that is simple and sophisticated.

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    • Avoid pleated skirts to look thinner on the bottom.
      By: Denis Aglichev
      Avoid pleated skirts to look thinner on the bottom.
    • Choose loose-fit jeans to hide bulges.
      By: Andrey Kiselev
      Choose loose-fit jeans to hide bulges.
    • Wear clothes that fit as a starting point to looking thinner.
      By: tananddda
      Wear clothes that fit as a starting point to looking thinner.
    • Toned arms can take the focus away from problem areas.
      By: kiuikson
      Toned arms can take the focus away from problem areas.
    • Good posture is slimming.
      By: Wisky
      Good posture is slimming.
    • But-cut jeans can balance wide hips.
      By: chiyacat
      But-cut jeans can balance wide hips.