Three Ways to Create a More Defined Waist
Though, it can be easy to put conditions on feeling good in our clothes — “I’ll update my closet when I lose 5 pounds” or “I’ll have time to shop once things slow down” — the right styling can help you feel confident and comfotable right now. You don’t need to”change” your body or shift your lifestyle to find the right pieces and feel great in your clothing, you just need to understand how to dress well for your body and your lifestyle.
So, if you prefer the appearance of a smaller waist, a these simple tactics can visually streamline the area with minimal effort.
Tip #1: Avoid “Tenting”
We know it can be tempting to do “the tent” and drape over your whole upper half, but that drapey top will ultimately take on the width of the widest part of your frame. It may drape off a wide shoulder or fall off and out from a larger bust — leaving the rest of our body looking equally wide and undefined. A blousy top is great the way it drapes across the body and doesn’t cling, but be sure to create shape with these tips below.
Tip #2: Add a Jacket
If you want to minimize your midsection, your best friend is a well cut jacket. A loose comfortable top underneath for contrast creates a great shape when topped with a jacket that cinches at the waist and flares slightly out toward the bottom — accentuating and creating a defined waist. The jacket provides form and structure along with the coverage and shape you are looking for.
Tip #3: Add a Belt
We know... so many people are afraid of belts, but done right they can be your best friend too! They create an instant waist even if you don’t have one. Especially when worn with a blousy top. Remember to wear this style belt at your natural waist (the kink when you bend to the side) not at your high hip (where loops land on belted pants)
Tip #4: Build Up the Shoulders
Puff sleeves, cap sleeves even shoulder padding or winged cuts add width to the shoulders, making the waist, by comparison, appear smaller and more defined.
Tip #5: Combine
One of my favorite tricks; belt anything from a loose or fitted top to your favorite dress, then add a layer on top. The visual detail of the belt will accentuate and create a waist while the outer layer, whether loose or fitted gives great coverage in other areas. Be bold and go fitted underneath with your belt. Or dip a toe into “belting” by trying tone-on-tone. A black patent belt on a black dress will have the effect and is a classic look! Another great combo? A jacket that nips at the waist that also has substantial shoulder padding!
There is an art and science to getting dressed that empowers you to feel confident in every outfit. Start your journey today.