How to Make Big Hips Look Smaller

No body is perfect! Learn the tips and tricks to best flatter yours.

Face it ladies, no matter how much we sweat at the gym or watch what we eat, we still have the body type our mamas gave us. Instead of cursing those big hips, spend a few minutes learning how to embrace them by dressing to accentuate your pear-shaped figure. With a few tips and tricks, you can learn how to showcase your best assets and make the most of the coveted hourglass figure you've been given.

Instructions

1. Wear the correct size. Just because you can physically squeeze your body into a pair of pants doesn't mean they fit properly, much less flatter your body type. Likewise, wearing clothing that is baggy or too large doesn't hide your flaws, but makes you appear larger.

2. Find your ideal cuts of clothing. The most flattering cut for jeans and pants will skim the hips and butt and go straight down from the largest part of the hip. A trouser or boot-cut pant is perfect for this body type.

3. Draw the eye upward by wearing blouses with bold colors, patterns or details. Choose blouses and jackets that accent the waist, showing off your hourglass body shape.

4. Minimize your hips further by wearing pants that are a dark wash or color. Be sure pants do not have large pockets, pockets starting at the hips or any embellishment in the hip and thigh area.

5. 

   Scarves can be used to add a pop of color to an outfit as well as draw the eye upward.

   Accessorize! Scarves, necklaces, earrings and other details will draw the eye upward.

6. Don a pair of heels, which visually creates a longer, leaner-looking leg.

7. Rock the confidence. If you feel good about yourself, it will outshine your flaws. Remember, nothing attracts the eye like a smile on your face.

Tips & Warnings

• Cowl, boat and ballet neck blouses all help to add volume at the shoulders to balance out larger hips.

• Wear tighter tops and looser bottoms.

• Empire-waist tops and dresses accentuate your positive features, as do A-line skirts.

Resources

• TLC: "What Not To Wear" Dress Your Body Type Video