Body types differ from person to person so finding the right piece of clothing that suits your physique perfectly is essential. If you are feeling self-conscious about your belly – you are not alone! Belly bulge, muffin tops and love handles are a universal problem especially as we get older. Some of us blame stress, a sluggish metabolism, lack of exercise, hormones and a fondness for sweet things and bread! But whatever the cause, when sucking it in no longer works – it's time for a fashion reboot.
Keep reading to find out the best practices to battle the bulge and win.
Get your shift on and show your legs:
Shift dresses in straight and A-line shapes are a classic and easy solution to belly bulge. The overall silhouette is always crisp, roomy and stands away from the body – so there is no cling in the middle. The main focus here is on the legs – make your legs the new focal point. Choose a shift dress in a length that suits you and one you are comfortable wearing – get those legs out and stock up on comfortable shoes.
Dress in one colour:
This optical trick makes even the most prominent belly blend in and never fails whether you’re a UK size 12 or 20. Here’s the science - a matching top and bottom creates a column of colour that registers visually as one sleek unbroken line. It works with all colours – in particular great with all black or all white – two of the most common wardrobe neutrals. In addition, different textures and fabrics also work well with this trick.
Lose your belly in midi’s and maxi’s:
Long flowy dresses may be your belly’s new BFF. Ignore the belted kind; think looser styles with a bohemian/romantic twist. An empire line is ideal here above the waist, under the bust or alternatively – just below the waist. Opt for trendy prints, stylish details and long sleeves for a more finished look.
An open jacket illusion:
There are several jacket tricks for belly bulge. Framing your belly with a contrasting colour jacket or blazer worn open over a shirt, tee, body suit or dress, works like theatre curtains to reduce the width of your body right at the waistline from a front view. Choose a jacket that is light enough to wear indoors (and outdoors in the UAE during the warmer months). A sleek, structured jacket like a blazer (my personal fav!) gives the most flattering, sharpest line, but even a cardigan, vest or shacket will give similar results.
That double-breasted blazer life:
Trust me on this – this is a powerful look and acts like clever wizardry. Worn closed, a double-breasted layer and structured shape hides not only a protruding or bloated tummy, but also its BFF and sidekick – the muffin top! My top tip here, raid the husband’s wardrobe for one of these jackets – he probably won’t notice it missing!
Go big on top, narrow on bottom:
If you like the idea of belly camouflage but also want to show some shape, let opposites attract. Pair any full-cut top, blouse, tunic or jacket with a slim base such as leggings or straight/skinny jeans.
Choose the right tops:
Wearing the wrong tops (tight tops) accentuates parts of your body, in particular – the belly making you feel self-conscious in yourself. Choose tops that have some draping or ruching. For example, a crossover top is very effective as it creates asymmetrical vertical lines concealing the lower part of your torso.
Make a big statement somewhere else:
When you don’t want attention in one spot, diverting it to another is one of the simplest ways to deal with it. It’s often the reason people get a fringe in their hair, wear red lipstick or wear bold, statement glasses. Choose a dress, suit or jacket with statement sleeves, and exaggerated ruffles in a show-stopping colour and your belly remains your business.
The power of a black jumpsuit:
If there is one item, every woman needs in her wardrobe – it’s a black jumpsuit. They have this clever way of tricking the eye and visually hiding the midriff. This is a must-have. Opt for a looser style to erase any bumps and bulges in unwanted spots.
Finally – it goes without saying – to wear your curves – without a care in the world and OWN THEM! A belly – like your hips, breasts and backside – is just part of having a body and this is to be celebrated at all costs!