7 Style Secrets to Create a Flattering Silhouette This Summer

Summer is here, and with it comes the desire to feel confident and look your best. While the focus should always be on feeling good in your own skin, there are some savvy styling tricks you can use to create a slimmer, more elongated silhouette. Here are 7 ways to dress up this summer that will have you looking and feeling fabulous:

1. The Magic of Monochromatic Magic: Embrace the power of one color! Wearing clothes in the same color head-to-toe creates a visually lengthening effect, making you appear taller and slimmer. This doesn't have to be boring – experiment with different shades of the same color for a more nuanced look. For example, try a navy blue linen shirt tucked into high-waisted navy blue trousers. Feeling bold? Opt for a vibrant emerald green jumpsuit for a head-turning statement.

2. Fit is Key: Don't Fight It! Clothes that fit well are the foundation of any flattering outfit. Baggy clothing might seem like it will hide bulges, but it can actually make you appear larger. Invest in pieces that skim your curves without being too tight. Tailoring existing clothes to fit you perfectly can make a world of difference. Opt for well-tailored trousers that sit at your natural waist and avoid styles that bunch around the ankles. For dresses, choose cuts that flatter your body type – an A-line silhouette is universally flattering, while empire waist dresses elongate your torso and camouflage your midsection.

3. The Power of Vertical Stripes: Your friends aren't the only ones who can benefit from a good vertical stripe! Vertical stripes have a slimming effect by drawing the eye upwards and creating an illusion of added height. Opt for stripes with a thin width and good contrast between the stripes and background color. Vertical stripes work well in both casual and formal settings. A striped maxi dress in a blue and white combination is perfect for a day at the beach, while a pinstripe blazer paired with black trousers creates a polished look for the office.

4. Belts: Your Waist-Cinching BFF: A well-placed belt can do wonders for creating a defined waist and a slimmer silhouette. Belts cinch your waist, visually creating an hourglass figure. Choose a belt that complements your outfit and your body type. A thin belt can be a great choice for those with a petite frame, while a wider belt can help balance out a pear-shaped figure. Experiment with different belt styles – a statement buckle belt can add a touch of personality to a simple dress, while a classic black leather belt adds polish to a pair of high-waisted trousers.

5. Layering Like a Pro: Layering is a fantastic way to add dimension and visual interest to your outfit, while also creating a slimming effect. A strategically placed blazer or cardigan can camouflage trouble areas and create a more streamlined silhouette. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton for summer layering. A long cardigan layered over a fitted tank top and skinny jeans creates a flattering silhouette for a casual day out. Feeling a bit chilly in the evening? Throw a denim jacket over a floral sundress for added warmth and a touch of casual cool.

6. Embrace the Power of Dark Colors: It's a classic for a reason! Darker colors like black, navy blue, and deep green tend to be more slimming than lighter colors. This doesn't mean you have to banish light colors from your wardrobe entirely! Lighter colors can look fantastic when styled strategically. For example, pair a white linen shirt with dark-wash jeans for a summery yet slimming look.

7. Highlight Your Best Assets: While creating a slimmer silhouette is great, it's also important to highlight your positive features. Draw attention to your favorite parts of your body, like your shoulders, legs, or neckline to create a balanced look. A pair of statement earrings draws attention to your face, while a v-neckline flatters your bustline. Feeling confident in your legs? Rock a knee-length skirt that showcases your calves.

Remember: Confidence is the ultimate key to looking your best. Stand tall, hold your head high, and embrace your body! These tips are just a starting point – experiment with different styles and find what makes you feel the most confident and beautiful. After all, summer is about having fun and feeling good in your own skin!

Bonus Tip: Don't forget the power of shapewear! While shapewear can offer temporary slimming benefits, it shouldn't be a substitute for finding well-fitting clothes. Choose shapewear that feels comfortable and opt for styles that target specific areas you'd like to smooth out.

Shop Womenswear here!