Hapworth on How to Wear Clothes That Make You Look Slimmer

Last year, I spent two weeks planning my wardrobe for a cruise. I wanted to make sure I looked okay since I knew I'd be eating a lot and probably putting on a few pounds.

The cruise was to the Caribbean. It was seven days, so I needed two formal outfits and clothes for day trips. For the formal wear, I chose one outfit that was all one color. It was light in color, but the style included a long jacket, a matching vest and long pants. Another key to looking slimmer is to wear pants, which are long.

My other outfit was a black dress and black heels. You can never go wrong with black. The dress hugged my body, but was not tight, so it actually made me look slimmer than a dress that would have fit loosely. The dress had a V-neck, which pulls the eyes upward, and therefore, can make you seem slimmer, as well.

For daytime, I wore slim Capri’s and colorful tops that would draw the eyes up. I avoided loose fitting sundresses.

Whether you go on a cruise, or you are trying to improve your looks every day, there are tricks to looking slimmer. I used to think that baggy or loose clothes hid your problem areas, so you would look thinner. That's not true. Baggy clothes make you look frumpy and hide what may be some natural curves.

Don't be afraid to wear fitted clothes, even if you are heavy. You will look thinner and better. I tossed out my old denim jumper that I used to wear all the time. I was shopping in a store when I overheard two young ladies talking.

One said, "Hey, why don't you buy that denim jumper?"

The other replied, "And look like an old school teacher?"

I placed my denim jumper in a bag for Goodwill. I also tossed out all my big tops that hang like a tent.

There are ways to look fashionable, even if you are slightly overweight or have some heavy issues.

Try a belt on the waist and top it with a tailored jacket. Avoid clothes, which are boxy. Opt for longer tops, which are tailored. Wear your pants long, just touching your shoes. Accent with jewelry that is stunning, such as large pendants or layered necklaces. The eyes are drawn to the jewelry.

Always emphasize your attributes. If you have nice legs but a heavy waist, wear a skirt and heels with a nice tailored jacket.

If you are slim on the top, wear a bright top with jewelry to bring the eyes upward.

There are many tricks to looking slimmer. The key is to avoid baggy clothes and be proud of who you are.