Fashion Tricks

Pair classic pieces with less expensive, trendy accessories.

Have you ever looked through a fashion magazine or noticed a stylish woman on the street and wondered how you can achieve the same look? Luckily for you, it doesn't cost a small fortune or require hours in the gym to look great in the clothing and accessories found in your closet. Instead, use a few tried and true fashion tricks. Does this Spark an idea?

Fashion Tricks to Look Taller

If you've always wanted to appear taller and more statuesque, there are many fashion tricks that will help you achieve this goal. For instance, wearing a pair of high heels is a quick and fashionable way to provide you with a leggy look. However, pay attention so that the heels don't feature heavy buckles, belts or embellishments around the ankle, as these can often make your legs appear shorter than they actually are. Vertical stripes also provide the illusion of height. A top featuring vertical stripes elongates your torso, while a pair of pin stripped pants can make your legs appear longer then they are. Even a pair of dangling earrings, a long pendant necklace or flowing scarf can create the illusion you're taller and leaner.

Look Slimmer

Aside from wearing black, there are other fashion tricks that can instantly make you appear at least 5 to 10 pounds thinner. For example, provide balance between a heavier bust and smaller backside or thighs by dressing to draw attention to your legs with a slimming pair of boot cut jeans and attractive belt or shoes. If you're worried about a larger backside or thighs, draw the eye upward by wearing an embellished top or dangling pendant necklace. By far, one of the simplest ways to achieve a sleeker frame is by wearing the proper undergarments. Quality shapewear can be your best friend when trying to fit into a snug dress or skirt. It's also important for women to have their bra measurements taken at least every 1 to 2 years. If you have large breasts, wearing a minimizing bra can instantly make you appear much slimmer while helping you fit better into your existing wardrobe of clothing.

Tricks to Hide an Unwanted Belly

Aside from wearing a pair of restrictive, tummy-control panties, there are several fashion tricks that can help disguise your belly. For example, wearing a pair of jeans or slacks featuring a waistband that sits across your stomach's middle can instantly make your appear slimmer. A top featuring ruching also helps conceal your stomach. While shopping for jeans, choose a pair featuring a boot cut, which can help create balance between your tummy, thighs and ankles. Whether wearing jeans or slacks, remember to choose a pair that fit comfortably and loose around your stomach. Otherwise, you could run the risk of creating a “muffin top” which often occurs when women wear a pair of low-cut, ill-fitting jeans.

Invest in Quality, Timeless Pieces

Many fall into the trap of purchasing expensive jewelry, clothing, shoes and accessories that are only fashionable for a single season. Instead, spend less money on trendy clothing and invest in timeless, classic pieces. For example, a crisp white button up or T-shirt paired with quality khakis or jeans never goes out of style. Dress up this basic timeless look with trendy jewelry or an inexpensive but trendy handbag, or shoes featuring the hottest colors of the season. In addition to a great pair of jeans, a quality leather handbag and a little black dress are also simple staples of every woman's wardrobe that are easily modernized by adding a few inexpensive, trendy accessories. Other sound fashion investments are good black or navy blazers, leather riding boots and diamond solitaire earrings.

References

• She Knows: Fashion Tips to Look Taller: Style Tips and Tricks to Add Height
• WebMD: 8 Ways to Look Thinner -- Right Now!
• Oprah: Tummy-Trimming Fashion Tips
• Fitness: Styling Tips to Make You Look Slimmer Instantly
• More Magazine: Tips & Tricks to Make Clothes Look Luxe
• Divine Caroline: Five Ways to Make Cheap Clothes Look Classy