Fashion tips and tricks: Hide tummy bulge with high-waist pants, peplum tops, dark colours

If you are conscious about your midsection, hiding it under a lot of clothes is not the best idea. Instead, choose clothes that are right for you, like high-waisted bottoms that you can pair with fitted tops. Wrap-style dresses are your best friend if you are conscious about your tummy area. These highlight the slimmest part of your torso while camouflaging the stomach area.

Whether you are dressing up for work running errands over the week, being conscious about your tummy doesn’t mean that you can’t dress stylishly. Choose styles and colours that suit your figure, for example, dark colours rather than light ones and vertical patterns instead of horizontal. If you like print, go for smaller prints rather than large ones, as these won’t draw extra attention to the midsection.

Here are some styling tips to help you feel more confident and comfortable in your clothes.

• Choose high-waisted bottoms

High-waisted jeans, skirts, and pants help smooth out your midsection, holding in the tummy and providing a flattering silhouette. Look for high-rise jeans or pants with a bit of stretch to enhance comfort. Pair with a tucked-in blouse or a fitted top for a chic, polished look.

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• Wear wrap dresses and tops

The best style to wear if you are conscious about your tummy is the wrap style. It creates a natural cinch at the waist, highlighting the slimmest part of your torso while camouflaging the stomach area. Go for wrap dresses or tops with a bit of ruching around the waist. Avoid styles that are too tight, as a relaxed fit can create a more flattering shape.

• Go for A-line dresses and skirts

The A-line cut creates a balanced look that draws attention away from the tummy as it gently flares out from the waist. Choose A-line skirts or dresses that fall just above or below the knee for a classic look. Pair with a fitted top or blazer to emphasize your waistline.

• Opt for dark colours

Darker shades like black, navy, and deep greens have a slimming effect and can make the tummy area appear smaller. Incorporate dark colours in pants, skirts, or dresses to create a seamless, flattering look. You can still add colour to your outfit through accessories or layering.

• Use vertical stripes and patterns

Vertical stripes draw the eye up and down, creating the illusion of a longer, leaner silhouette. Look for dresses, blouses, or pants with subtle vertical stripes. For patterns, choose small prints rather than large ones, as these won’t draw extra attention to the midsection.

• Wear peplum tops

Peplum tops cinch at the waist and flare out slightly, adding balance and shape to the body. Choose peplum tops in solid colours or subtle patterns. Pair with fitted pants or skirts to accentuate the slimming effect of the peplum.

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• Choose layering wisely

Layering with lightweight, flowy jackets or cardigans can help to disguise the tummy area by creating a streamlined shape. A long, open-front cardigan or a structured blazer can elongate your silhouette and draw attention away from your midsection.

• Opt for ruching and draping

Ruching (gathered fabric) and draping can add texture to clothing, which helps camouflage any bulges. Choose tops or dresses with ruching around the waist or stomach. Avoid heavy fabrics, as they may add bulk. Instead, go for lightweight materials that drape well.

• Wear shapewear for extra support

Shapewear is your best friend to create a smoother foundation for your clothes. Wearing shapewear under your clothes will give you additional support around the midsection and give you the confidence to wear well-fitting clothes. Invest in high-waisted shapewear shorts, briefs, or bodysuits that smooth the tummy area without being overly restrictive.

• Balance with statement accessories

Adding statement accessories like a bold necklace or earrings can draw attention upwards, away from the midsection. A chunky necklace, colourful scarf, or eye-catching earrings will pull focus to your upper body, creating balance in your overall look.

• Avoid clingy fabric

Fabrics that cling too tightly to the body can emphasize the tummy area. Instead, choose structured or lightly flowing fabrics that skim over the midsection. Go for cotton, linen blends, or fabrics with a bit of stretch. Avoid satin, silk, or very stretchy knits, as they can highlight any lumps and bumps.

Final tips for dressing to conceal a tummy bulge

• Go for mid-length tops: Tops that hit just above the hip are ideal, as they help to balance out your proportions.
• Choose V-necklines: V-necks elongate the neck and draw the eye downward, creating a slimming effect.
• Avoid tucking in tops (unless high-waisted): Avoid tucking if you’re wearing low-rise or mid-rise pants, as this can add bulk to the tummy area.

Finding the right balance of fabrics, cuts, and colours can go a long way in creating a smooth, streamlined look.