How To Flatter Your Figure

Erin Dungan

Oversized sweaters and shapeless coats are things of the past. Warm weather is finally here and with it comes shorts, sundresses and figure-hugging crop tops.

While there isn’t enough time to transform our waistlines before breaking out the spring and summer clothes, there is a way to transform wardrobes so they are more figure flattering.

Depending on one’s specific body type, garments that are figure flattering will vary.

For those who find their midsection to be a troubled area, opt for an empire style dress. Empire silhouettes have a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, creating a high-waisted appearance. As the dress flares outward past the bust it conceals the waist making for an overall flattering look.

Deep v-necks and scoop necks, straight-leg jeans and shirts that pleat under the bust are also flattering garments for women who carry extra weight in their midsection.

If short legs are your weak point, try high-waisted pants. They create an illusion that the legs begin much higher than they actually do. To elongate the legs even more, try flare high-waisted pants. Pear-shaped women also benefit from flared pants as they draw attention to the ankles and make the hips appear narrower.

Less-than-toned arms are hard to tackle, but don’t worry because concealing them isn’t! Off-the-shoulder tops are not only trendy and fun, but they easily hide under arm flab. These tops can be found in stores like Forever21 and PacSun among many others.

A-line silhouettes are the most flattering for those who are larger below the waist, including thighs and butt. An A-line dress is fitted at the hips and gradually widens toward the hem. Dark colored pants with lower and thicker waist bands are also more flattering for this body type.

For students who find their bum to be their problem area, try tying a jacket or shirt around the waist. This style is no longer meant for just 60-year-old mall walkers, but has actually become quite trendy. Celebrities like Kendall and Kylie Jenner have been sporting flannels tied around their waist not only because of practicality, but because it adds an extra style element to any outfit.

Despite running out of time to transform our bodies before the warm weather hits, there are ways to conceal those problem areas with a variety of styles and silhouettes.