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Summer is always a fashion challenge. No matter how much we talk about body positivity, women of every size and shape start giving their little bulges and extra pounds the evil eye as soon as hot weather looms. The ritual never fails. We panic, we start a new diet and then we buy a bunch of compression undergarments. No need for that. As a fashion editor I know 11 fashion tricks that will visually trim you down and tone you up.
1. Swap out tees for tunics
Tunic-length tops are your new best friend. Whether crisp and tailored, silky and flowing or boho embellished, they disguise a muddy middle without looking obvious. Consider any top you own that's long, loose and generously cut a “tunic.” Even old back-of-the-closet sleeveless shifts, T-shirt dresses and sundresses (now way too short to wear solo) can be worn as tunics. But here's the important part: Be sure to pair any tunic with a slim pair of jeans, ankle pants or leggings. It's the big top over skinny bottom ratio that gives you coverage plus style.
2. Let prints work as camouflage
Been skipping workouts? Feel bloated and blah? Are rolls and muffin tops making you miserable? Slip on a print dress or wide-leg pants and watch your jiggles vanish. It's an optical illusion, of course, but busy allover patterns like swirly florals, paisley, leopard and artsy geometrics keep the eye moving so it doesn't zero in on trouble spots. And here's a bonus: Prints also hide perspiration stains — a common summer fashion problem amplified by extra weight, heat and hormonal shifts.
3. Bare legs or arms
Before you say “No!” hear me out. Yes, we all appreciate the body security of pants, long sleeves and midi hemlines but overdoing coverage all the time can be a trap, too. Think about this: Your arms and legs are always going to be slimmer than your torso whatever your size! Baring legs or arms (whichever makes you feel sexy and sassy) while covering up elsewhere establishes a long lean line so the rest of you appears trimmer, too. You just might be surprised at the freedom and confidence boost.
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