Raise your hand if you've tried a fad diet to meet unrealistic weight loss goals within an insanely short timeframe. We can safely assume that the majority of us are guilty – we've all done it. If you're in a pinch and juice cleanses or 6am boot camp just aren’t your thing, we have the next best solution. Learning how to dress your body type and make the most of your assets can save you the blood, sweat, tears, and wasted time…
GO FOR A LOW-CUT NECKLINE…
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @NETAPORTER
Don’t be afraid to show some skin with a v-neckline. Particularly good for those of us who are pear shaped, it can help balance your figure and create even proportions (hello, hourglass shape). The chin to chest skin ratio with a deep-v creates the illusion of an elongated figure – lengthening and slimming your upper body. If you’re looking to keep your waistline looking trim or add some height through the torso region, opt for a medium to deep v.
ADD DEFINITION TO YOUR CHEEKBONES…
While it may seem like a fad make-up trend, stemmed from Kim Kardashian – contouring is actually a great way to slim your face and highlight your best facial features. Placing a foundation or powder one shade darker than your skin tone into the hollows of the face (below your cheekbones, temples, top of forehead, and sides of nose) can create the illusion of supermodel cheeks, a slimmed nose or sharper jawline.
CLINIQUE CHUBBY STICK SCULPTING CONTOUR
MIRENESSE TRI-CONTOUR V FACE SCULPTING STICK
DESIGNER BRANDS CREAM CONTOUR KIT
SKINNY HEELS = SKINNY LEGS…
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @STYLETREAD
If you’re worried about your legs looking bigger – especially in the calves – then stilettos are the shoes to choose. A thinner heel will lengthen the leg and give the illusion of a longer lower half. Narrow silhouettes help avoid any bulk or extra weight around the feet – which naturally draws the eye down, and creates the effect of shorter legs. We recommend opting for a nude pump for a seamless blend between leg, heel, and floor.
Bronze your skin with a self-tanner. Not only is it safer than a real tan, but it can add definition – making you look more toned. Contouring rules apply just as they do with make-up – tan your entire body and then add more on the areas where you want to detract attention, and highlight areas that you would like to emphasise.
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @MATCHESFASHION
ECO TAN ORGANIC INVISIBLE TAN
FAKE BAKE AIRBRUSH INSTANT SELF TAN
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @ELLE_FERGUSON
If your goal is to look skinnier, then ditch your skinny jeans and choose a straight or bootcut fit. While different cuts suit different shapes, these two tend to be universally flattering. With the right fit, your legs will look longer and leaner, and your bum will look toned and lifted. If you’re looking for the full slimming effect, we recommend a darker wash – after all, black is slimming.
PAIGE JEANS FROM ORDER OF STYLE
ACNE JEANS FROM NET-A-PORTER
Make like Bella Hadid and give yourself a facelift sans surgery. A sleek ponytail pulled back in line with your cheekbones will give those cheekbones and eyebrows a natural lift. Achieve the look with the help of a strong hold paste or hair spray – for extra shine (and true Bella style), finish with a hair oil for minimal flyaways.
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @BELLAHADID
ELEVEN STRONG HOLD STYLING PASTE
R+CO WALL ST STRONG HOLD GEL
EVO HELMUT EXTRA STRONG LACQUER
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @MATCHESFASHION
For those with bigger busts, wearing dresses and tops that aren’t fitted can sometimes result in an ill-flattering and frumpy silhouette. Adding a belt around the waist can cinch everything in, and show off your best attribute – killer curves. Even if you don’t have a bigger bust, belting at the waist can help give you shape with oversized clothing like blazers, coats and shift dresses.
So, it may not be sexy, but good shapewear will keep all those lumps and bumps in check. The right undergarments can slim, sculpt or even add curve to your figure (after all, it is called shapewear for a reason). Even better, some shapewear is designed to help improve your posture – so for those who sit slumped over at a desk all day or might have back problems from having a bigger bust, this may be something you need to invest in.
IMAGE: INSTAGRAM @LOVEINTIMO
WOLFORD BODYSUIT FROM NET-A-PORTER
SPANX BODYSUIT FROM NET-A-PORTER
