A: You can create
a more slender physique by using your clothes. I was talking
to Rose Mary Dallman, author of Dress Thin! 330 Tips:
How to Use Clothing and Accessories to Flatter Your Figure (Brainstorm Books, 2005). She says that what you wear
can minimize and distract from areas you’re sensitive
about. Here are her strategic tips:
To minimize:
1. Avoid wide horizontal stripes in tops.
2. Wear clothes loose over a problem area.
3. Do not wear a top that ends at the stomach area – go
longer. Also, don’t wear a long chain or beads that
end at the stomach.
4. Wear soft flowing materials that drape well and gently
hug the body. Avoid bulky, stiff materials such as tweed,
wool and fur. Stick with a soft material like silk or
cotton.
5. Avoid a double-breasted jacket or dress. It will
widen the waist.
6. Wear dark colors where you want to look smaller.
7. Don’t wear designs or graphics over the area
you’re trying to hide.
8. Avoid shiny material that reflects light. Steer clear
of glitter designs on top or all over. Glitter is pound
enhancing. The simplicity is what you’re striving
for. That said, you could add glitter as a distraction
at your neckline.
9. Avoid crop tops, short tight sweaters and unforgiving
knit tops. They don’t give you any advantage; they
cling.
10. Pants with a simple waistline in the front are best.
Don’t add pleats.
11. A shoulder pad can emphasize and give your silhouette
a far better proportion.
12. Never wear a blouse or jacket that strains when
buttoned.
13. Straight cardigan jackets will often flatter the
stomach. A little fitted works, but you don’t want
anything too large.
For distraction:
1. Wear a jeweled broach at the throat, a hairpin, a
barrette or a hat.
2. Pay attention to beautifying yourself. Update your
hairstyle or learn a new way to apply makeup.
3. A filmy, sheer shawl just over the shoulders will
gracefully distract.
4. A bright purse, gloves or earrings take away from the
area you’re trying to hide.
5. Good posture will take off the pounds.
6. Of course, the cheapest and most effective distraction
is a warm smile.
ANSWERED BY:
Lisa Hannam
Senior
Editor,
Oxygen magazine
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