No matter your body shape, selecting outfits that enhance your figure can help boost your confidence every time you dress up. Finding a balance between dressing to flatter your shape without overly concealing your body is not always easy, but it’s absolutely worth the effort. Here, we have gathered useful tips and tricks you can apply on your next shopping spree to find outfits that complement your body type.
Steps
Choose Neutral-Colored Pants

Light-colored pants will draw attention to your legs. If you want to create the illusion of slimmer thighs, opt for solid, neutral-colored pants like brown, black, or beige. For jeans, go for darker shades or black.
- Pants with lots of details like pockets or sparkling embellishments will attract attention to your legs and fuller thighs. Stick to simple, well-fitted pants.
Choose Vertical Stripes

Vertical stripes create a slimming effect for your legs. If you prefer patterned pants, look for vertical stripes or patterns that run along the length of your body. Pants with larger patterns or solid colors are better than small, intricate designs.
- The same rule applies to skirts and dresses. Vertical stripes will make you look slimmer and taller, while horizontal stripes can make you appear wider.
- Avoid garments with dense patterns that will draw too much attention to your legs.
Opt for Wide-Legged Pants

These pants are incredibly comfortable to wear. Choose pants that are loose at the top and taper down towards your ankles for a balanced look. Pleated trousers or joggers are great examples.
- Look for straight-leg or slightly wide-legged pants like bootcuts, but avoid bell-bottoms. Wide bell-bottoms will make your legs appear larger.
Focus on the Highest Waistline

Your natural waist is the slimmest part of your lower body. Choose high-waisted trousers, jeans, and skirts to draw attention to your figure and curves. You can accentuate this area even more by using a belt.
- Your natural waist is located just above your hips. It’s the point where your hand rests when you place it on your hip while standing.
- If your top is a bit long, try tucking it in to highlight your waist.
Wear Knee-Length Skirts

Draw attention to the slimmest part of your legs. Opt for a midi skirt that hits just above the knee. It will cover your thighs while slimming your legs. Skirts with lace or ruffles at the hem are even better, as they will shift the focus towards your knees and lower legs.
- A-line skirts and mermaid-style dresses will complement your body shape beautifully.
Choose Soft, Stretchy Denim

Stiff, heavy denim will make your thighs appear larger. When selecting jeans, go for denim with a bit of stretch. Legging-style jeans or skinny jeans are ideal, as they flatter fuller thighs without adding bulk.
- Dark denim works better than light denim, as the darker shade will draw less attention to your legs.
Wear Eye-Catching Tops

Draw attention to the upper part of your body. Choose tops with floral prints, embroidery, patterned shirts, shoulder-padded jackets, or graphic tees. By wearing standout tops, people will focus more on your upper body than your legs.
- Tie-dye t-shirts and floral print blouses also do the trick!
- Opt for tops with accents like trims or multiple pockets.
Slender Legs with High Heels

When styling, use high heels to add height to your frame. Choose a simple pair of heels, avoiding too many straps or embellishments, as the goal is to elongate your legs without overcomplicating the look. If you don’t prefer stilettos, go for smaller heels, wedges, or block heels.
- Avoid knee-high boots, as they can make you appear shorter.
- Nude-colored heels will enhance the illusion of added height.
Wear Pointed-Toe Shoes

Flat shoes, loafers, and office shoes can still help elongate your legs. If you choose this style, opt for shoes with a slightly pointed toe to draw attention downwards and create a lengthening effect. Pointed-toe shoes also add an elegant and refined touch to your outfit.
- Pick nude-colored shoes that match your skin tone for a lengthening effect.
Wear Bold Necklaces and Earrings

The key is to direct people's attention towards your upper body. Go for wide necklaces, long earrings, large headbands, or fluffy scarves. These accessories will complete your look and make people focus more on your face and upper body.
- Pair matching necklaces and earrings to create a cohesive look.
- Shiny rings and facial piercings also have a similar effect.
Carry a Large, Structured Bag

A bag like this helps make your legs appear slimmer. Look for large, bulky bags or backpacks that are practical for carrying everything you need. In a professional setting, you can substitute this with a briefcase or shoulder bag when carrying important documents.
- A small clutch or delicate handbag will accentuate your legs and make them seem larger in comparison.
Advice
- All fashion “rules” are just guidelines. If something makes you feel good when you wear it, go ahead and wear it!