Buying clothing that both fits and looks good can be a challenge for most women. But short, petite women often have trouble finding clothes that make them appear taller. Additionally, a short, petite woman with stomach bulge can have even greater difficulty finding clothes that flatter and conceal. Learning a few things about how to choose the appropriate clothes can make a big difference.
Try on all clothing before you make a purchase. Check that the clothing flatters both your height and your weight. Reject any clothes that are too tight, too long or overly loose.
Wear A-line or empire waist dresses that will flow easily over your belly and camouflage your waistline. Wrap dresses are another type of dress that flatters rounder stomachs. Choose dresses or skirts that fall slightly above or just to the knee. Shorter skirts give your petite legs the appearance of being longer.
Look for tops that are ruched. Tops with ruching have gathered areas of material which gives you the appearance of being pulled in. Also select tops with scalloped hemlines and those that are made of flowing materials. Stay clear of belly baring or form-fitting tops.
Choose v-necklines to draw attention upward toward the face and away from your midsection. V-necks and open necklines also create the illusion of being taller and thinner.
Pick tops that are slightly tapered and cropped. The taper will help make the waistline slimmer and the cropped length will give you the appearance of being taller.
Choose clothing with vertical lines, which will make you appear longer and leaner. When buying an outfit with vertical stripes, choose narrow stripes as opposed to thicker ones. Avoid clothing with horizontal lines. This sort of pattern has a shortening effect and emphasizes your belly.
Purchase dark colored pants or skirts to hide your belly bulge. Darker colors will visually make your stomach appear smaller. Instead of buying only black and dark blue, choose darker shades of your favorite colors.
Avoid pairing your dark bottoms with highly contrasting tops. Instead of choosing black pants with a white top, select a monochromatic color scheme. For example, pair dark blue pants with a lighter shade of blue for your top. This will help elongate your look and direct attention away from your belly.
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Writer Bio
Mai Bryant is a Northern California writer who specializes in writing about health-related topics, fashion and relationships. She began writing online in 2005 but has freelanced privately for more than 10 years. Bryant's eclectic professional background as a medical technician, a licensed cosmetologist, copywriter and event planner allows her to write with authority on numerous topics.