Styling Tricks to Look Slimmer and Feel More Confident With Your Body

You’ve likely noticed that when you think you look slimmer, your confidence soars and you feel more at ease. But when your outfit isn’t as flattering, it can have the opposite effect, leaving you feeling self-conscious and less comfortable in your own skin. I’ve been there, too—it’s something we all experience. To be honest, achieving that consistently slim look isn’t always easy. Some days, it feels like nothing in your closet works, and finding that perfect outfit can be frustrating. However, when you have a well-thought-out and uncluttered wardrobe, everything changes. With a carefully curated selection of clothes, you can ensure that no matter what you pick out, you’ll always look sleek and polished. It’s about creating a collection that not only celebrates your body but also boosts your confidence every day. So here’s how you can start building that kind of wardrobe.

Prioritise Clothes That Fit You Well

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The foundation of dressing to look slimmer starts with mastering the art of finding the perfect fit. I’ve experienced firsthand how clothes that are too tight can draw unwanted attention to every lump and bump, while garments that are too loose can overwhelm your frame, adding unnecessary bulk and leaving you looking shapeless. The key is finding clothes that gently skim your body, striking that perfect balance.

When shopping, I always pay close attention to how each piece fits my unique body shape. I’ve written about this before in what I like to call my “maybe’s” philosophy. I classify clothes into three categories: yes, maybe, and no. The “yes” pieces fit perfectly, enhancing my silhouette; the “no” items are those that simply don’t work for my body; and the “maybe’s” are pieces that almost work. Don’t settle for something that almost works. Instead, consider having those “maybe” items tailored to perfection. A few minor adjustments can turn an ill-fitting piece into a wardrobe staple that enhances your silhouette. Well-fitting clothes create clean, uninterrupted lines that are crucial for a streamlined, slimmer appearance, helping you look and feel your best every day.

Choose the Right Fabrics because Texture and Weight Matter

The fabrics you choose for your outfits can dramatically influence how an outfit flatters your figure.

Heavy, stiff materials like wool or corduroy —while warm and durable— can add unwanted bulk and make you appear bigger than you actually are. On the other hand, excessively thin or clingy fabrics tend to highlight every curve and bump on your body, drawing attention to areas you might prefer to downplay.

An image of three women in fashionable outfits, each using textured fabrics and patterns. One wears a zigzag-patterned dress, another a simple black dress with cross patterns, and the third a one-shoulder top with striped pants.

So, what’s the trick here? Well, the key is to strike a balance by opting for fabrics that offer both structure and a degree of stretch. Think of materials like cotton blends, crepe, or lightweight knits. These fabrics drape gracefully over your body, creating a smooth and flattering silhouette without clinging or adding unnecessary volume. Blends that incorporate a small percentage of spandex or elastane provide both comfort and flexibility, ensuring your clothes maintain their shape even as you move.

Beyond the type of fabric, consider its finish and colour. Matte fabrics, which absorb light, can enhance a slimming effect, while shiny materials like satin or silk tend to reflect light, potentially drawing attention to areas you’d rather keep subtle. As a general rule, always keep in mind that darker colours tend to be more slimming than lighter ones, as they create a more streamlined and visually cohesive look.

Choose Vertical Lines Over Horizontal lines and Patterns

A smiling woman wearing a maroon dress with white vertical stripes, posing confidently with hands on hips.

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When it comes to creating a slimming and elongated silhouette, the direction of lines and patterns in your outfit matter as they can make a big difference in your appearance.

Vertical lines are particularly effective because they naturally guide the eye up and down, creating an illusion of height and a more streamlined figure. Enhancing your overall look.

Horizontal lines, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect if you’re after that slimmer look. The problem with them is that they tend to draw the eye across your body. As a result, this can add visual width around your figure—a result most of us would prefer to avoid. Patterns also play a crucial role in how clothing impacts your appearance. Large, bold prints can sometimes overwhelm and add bulk to your frame, while smaller, more refined patterns add visual interest without compromising your silhouette. By choosing vertical lines and opting for smaller, more sophisticated patterns, you can create a look that is both flattering and polished.

Avoid Wearing Too Many Colours At once

While a vibrant splash of colour can add zest to your outfit, overdoing it will unfortunately create a chaotic and overwhelming look that can even make you appear larger than you are. For example, imagine wearing a bright red top, a patterned skirt with multiple colours, a yellow scarf, and green shoes. This combination would likely feel visually jarring and could make your figure appear wider due to the lack of cohesion. The thing is, too many colours competing for attention can make your silhouette appear busy and fragmented, rather than streamlined and polished.

A woman in a blue and white patterned dress, complemented by a blue blazer and a brown handbag, posing confidently in an urban setting.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s often advisable to stick to a palette of two or three complementary colours in a single outfit.

A woman in a vibrant, multicolored striped sweater and red patterned pants, walking confidently in an urban setting with modern buildings and cars in the background.

Photos credit: Godisable Jacob /Pexels

This approach creates a more blended and visually pleasing ensemble that allows your individual pieces to shine without overwhelming the overall look. And this can also contribute to a visually slimming effect. Just remember, sometimes less is more when it comes to colour coordination, allowing you to achieve a sophisticated and stylish look that flatters your figure and exudes confidence.

Invest in Quality Shapewear

A close-up of a woman wearing black shapewear with a yellow measuring tape wrapped around her waist, emphasising her slim figure.

Photo Credit: Polina Tankilevitch /Pexels

While the right clothing choices can go a long way in creating a flattering silhouette, sometimes a little extra help can make all the difference.

Investing in quality shapewear can be a game-changer, providing targeted support and smoothing out any areas you may feel self-conscious about.

Thankfully, modern shapewear is designed to be both comfortable and effective, enhancing your natural curves without feeling restrictive or uncomfortable.

Whether it’s a high-waisted brief to gently control your tummy, a shaping slip to create a seamless, slimmer look under a dress, or a body shaper to provide overall support, shapewear can give you the confidence to rock any outfit. Remember, it’s not about drastically changing your body shape but rather enhancing your natural beauty and ensuring your clothes fit flawlessly. Thankfully, the world of shapewear has evolved tremendously, and there’s a wide array of options available to suit various needs and preferences. From different levels of control to targeted shaping zones and a range of styles and fabrics, you can find the perfect pieces to enhance your confidence and complement your wardrobe.