“Does this make me look fat?” Maybe you haven’t asked your boyfriend, mom, roommate and, oh, your entire sorority just yet, but some ensembles beg the horrid question. Before you sign up for that trendy yet concerning juice cleanse, slimming down your ensemble can be as easy as making a few adjustments to your outfit. We’re not saying that everyone should aspire to have Heidi Klum’s legs and Giselle Bundchen’s post-baby body, but you deserve to flaunt what you have and maximize what you’ve got. The secret? “Always accessorize to flatter,” says stylist Elizabeth Kamm. Check out our list of must-have pieces that will slim you down, no calorie-counting required.
A Belt
Having a pair of hips is a blessing, not a curse. From Christina Hendricks to Scarlett Johansson, some of Hollywood’s sexiest women flaunt a curvy figure. So why would you want to hide them? Play up your figure—and highlight a smaller waist—by simply adding a belt. “Cinch a tiny waist and help your hourglass [figure],” says Kamm. From the array of different price points to the variety of styles, we can guarantee that there’s a perfect belt for you. But of course we have our favorites that we’re dying for you to try. Play up your feminine side with C. Wonder’s leather skinny bow belt ($38). Or rock a wide belt—we’re so smitten with this studded one from Asos ($14). For a pop of color, try Uniqlo’s soft narrow belt ($20) or Gap’s clean leather belt ($25). Stylish, slimming and versatile? Sounds like the perfect trifecta to us!
A Pair of Heels
We all know that heels are super glam, but they also bless collegiettes with model-esque legs. “A tall heel equals magic,” notes Kamm. According to our style expert, the extra height gives the illusion of long, lean legs. Whether you’re picking out a luxe pair at Bloomingdale’s or searching for some great deals at T.J. Maxx, you’ll be able to find a slew of stylish shoes. For model legs, sport a pair of nude heels with a dress—the nude hue will blend in with your skin tone and give you legs for days ($49). Or give the classic black heel a seductive twist with a pair of peep-toes ($24). Looking for something with a little more shine? Spice up an LBD with Chinese Laundry’s metallic strappy sandals ($29). If you’re more comfortable in a pair of wedges, we recommend ModCloth’s amazing coral wedges ($33). Just make sure you can walk in your heels—a stumbling strut is never flattering.
A Bunch of Bangles
Good news: you can forgo mastering the skinny arm. For seemingly slim arms, it’s all about the bangles. “Stack on a bunch of different ones in varying widths and colors,” suggests Kamm. “Just make sure they are all cohesive in some way, such as material and tone.” Luckily, some stores—such as Forever 21 and H&M—have made it easier for you by selling sets of bangles. How sweet of them! We are obsessed with the “peach and pearl” set from Dorothy Perkins ($17)—the different textures scream stylish. Not to mention Wet Seal’s quirky set of silver bangles ($13) will add some much-needed glitz to any ensemble. Give this trend a gilded twist with a bevy of bangles from H&M ($7). If you’re craving some color, Charlotte Russe offers a ton of bangles ($6) that have a punch of color. Whether you add a few bangles or pile all of them on, this accessory is a slimming must.
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Statement Necklaces and Earrings
Speaking of jewelry, necklaces and earrings are your new sartorial BFFs. “Focus on statement necklaces or earrings to draw focus up to your face,” Kamm advises. She has a point—your attention-grabbing jewels are sure to take the attention off any problem areas you don’t want to highlight. Though thrift shops and small boutiques tend to have unique finds, heading to your nearest mall will also yield stylish (and flattering) results. Finish a cutting-edge ensemble with a funky tribal necklace ($20). Or channel you inner Blair Waldorf with Accessorize’s stunning pearl cluster bib ($29). If “notice me necklaces” aren’t for you, opt for a standout set of earrings—we love these black drop earrings ($16) as well as this ornate pair from Nordstrom ($38). And in the grand scheme of things, isn’t this just an excuse to buy something sparkly?
A Collarbone-Baring Top
As much as you adore those trusty buttoned-up tops, they may not be the most flattering. “High necks and scoop necks should be avoided as they draw emphasis and widen you up top, creating a lot of visual space between your neck and boobs,” says Kamm. Our fashion guru suggests one-shouldered tops. “The asymmetry works in favor of a bigger bust by drawing attention to the neck and collarbone,” says Kamm. But where do you find these oh-so flattering tops? Glad you asked. Topshop’s version ($40) will look phenomenal with a pair leggings. Not to mention Susana Monaco’s tunic is a super chic choice. If you’re looking for a splash of color, Alloy has a plethora of one shouldered shirts in poppy hues ($6). Whether you’re getting drinks with the girls or hitting frat row, this type of top is also perfect for painting the campus red.
Skinny Jeans
Sounds obvious, right? After all, “skinny” is in the name. However, swapping your regular jeans for a tighter fit slims down your ensemble. “My go-to trick is wearing super-skinny pants that are tight at the ankle with sleek and simple flats,” says Kristin Doherty, a sophomore at Drake University and HC Contributing Writer. “I think it makes your calves look really slim, which makes your legs look skinny, too!” Though this item has our style expert’s stamp of approval, Kamm suggests opting for dark jeans. “The best idea is to wear a dark color jean rather than too light, or a distressed look that will draw more attention to [your] thighs,” Kamm says. Luckily, affordable skinny jeans are easy to come by. If you’re looking for a pair of skinny blue jeans, try Topshop’s Leigh jeans ($76) or Dorothy Perkins’s super skinny jeans ($49). Or rock a sleek pair of black skinnies—we’re so smitten with Miss Selfridges’s take on this trend ($68) as well as Uniqlo’s oh-so comfy pair ($40). With so many options, how can you resist?
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A Large Bag
Rumor has it that a large bag is very slimming, and it’s true! The key to rocking this item is finding a versatile purse. “You don’t want this bag to be trend-driven,” warns Kamm. “It should be classic.” According to our style guru, find a bag in a neutral hue that has minimal hardware. Thankfully, you can pick up a stylish bag at some of your favorite stores. This bucket bag from Zara ($90) is to (sartorially) die for. Pump up the glamour with Dorothy Perkins’s croc tote ($44). If you’re craving a darker color, we recommend a classic black bag ($43). If you didn’t like this slimming option enough, you can also use your large bag to carry your books and laptops to class.
A Fitted Blazer
Not only is a blazer the perfect finishing touch to any ensemble, a fitted version of this trend highlights a narrow waist. But out of all the different types of blazers—and different price points—how do you know which one is right for you? “You’ll know what works for you because when you try it on, it will just feel right,” says Kamm. “If it’s too big or too small, it will not flatter. It’s crucial to get the right fit.” Since a black blazer is so versatile, try this chic pick from Uniqlo ($40). If you’re hoping to spice up your wardrobe, try a printed version ($55) or a blazer in a funky hue ($83). Whether you dress it up with a minidress or tone it down with some jeans, a blazer is always a crowd pleaser.
A Pencil Skirt
Let’s be honest: miniskirts are not very flattering. Instead, they draw attention to your thighs, and few collegiettes want that. To channel your feminine side, opt for a pencil skirt. “This is probably the most universally flattering and slimming style for women,” gushes Kamm. “You can wear it so many different ways and it always looks good.” If you don’t have a pencil skirt, start with the basics. A black pencil skirt is the epitome of classic style—we’re loving this one from Mango ($70). If you’re looking to spruce up your wardrobe, try a houndstooth print ($83) or even a lace pencil skirt ($60). Let’s not forget that a pencil is ideal for that amazing internship you just scored!
Trends come and go, but feeling comfortable in your second skin never goes out of style. What are some of your go-to tricks for slimming down your ensemble? Sound off below!