Fashion tips: Fitted clothes, clingy fabrics and crop tops can bring attention to your tummy area

Fashion tips and tricks: Short tops that expose or emphasise the tummy are less flattering if you’re looking to downplay the midsection. Opt for tunic-length tops or peplum styles, which provide coverage while looking stylish and trendy (Image: Canva)

Let’s be real—we all have days when we feel a bit self-conscious about certain areas of our body, and the tummy is often one of them. Whether it’s post-meal bloating, a little extra love around the midsection, or simply wanting to feel more confident, the right clothing choices can make a world of difference. Fashion isn’t about hiding yourself; it’s about enhancing your natural beauty and feeling good in what you wear.

That said, some styles can unintentionally draw attention to areas you’d rather not emphasize. The good news? With a few adjustments and knowing what to avoid, you can dress in a way that flatters your figure, accentuates your best features, and keeps you feeling amazing all day long.

• Avoid clingy fabrics

Fabrics like lycra, satin, or silk tend to highlight every curve, including the tummy area. So if you don’t have a model's body (which, let’s face it, who does), avoid these materials at all costs. These materials cling to the body, drawing attention to areas you might want to downplay. Instead, opt for structured or flowing fabrics like cotton, crepe, or chiffon that drape elegantly and provide a smoother look.

• Skip low-rise pants or skirts

Low-rise bottoms mainly accentuate your midsection and create a muffin top. For a more flattering fit, choose mid-rise or high-waisted bottoms. They smooth and support the tummy area ad give you a streamlined look.

• Avoid close-fitting bodycon dresses

Bodycon dresses hug the body and highlight every contour, making any bulges more noticeable. As an alternative, go for wrap dresses or A-line styles that skim over the midsection and offer a more forgiving fit.

• Avoid crop tops

Short tops that expose or emphasise the tummy are less flattering if you’re looking to downplay the midsection. Opt for tunic-length tops or peplum styles, which provide coverage while looking stylish and trendy.

• Steer clear of horizontal stripes

Horizontal stripes will make the torso look more enormous, focusing on the tummy. Instead, go for vertical stripes or diagonal patterns, which have a slimming and lengthening effect.

• Avoid large prints around the midsection

Big, bold patterns near the tummy can make bring focus to your tummy area. Instead, choose smaller prints or solid colours, particularly in darker shades, around the midsection to create a more balanced look.

• Skip unstructured or shapeless outfits

Many people who are conscious about their tummy try to hide behind baggy or loose-fitting clothes. This has the opposite effect and can make you look even bigger. Instead, go for clothes that fit your body, with defined shapes, either empire waist dresses or a fit-and-flare that elongates your silhouette.

• Avoid thin belts at the waist

A narrow belt around the waist can draw unflattering attention to your tummy area. Instead, opt for wider belts at a point slightly above your natural waistline to define the smallest part of your torso and create the most flattering shape.

• Be cautious with low-cut necklines

Low necklines without balance can make the tummy area more noticeable. Opt for V-necks or scoop necklines paired with statement accessories to draw the eye upward and away from the midsection.

• Skip shiny or reflective fabrics

Shiny materials like satin or metallic fabrics reflect light, highlighting bulges and creating an unflattering effect. Stick to matte fabrics in darker shades, which provide a slimming appearance and a more polished look.

• Avoid pencil skirts without support

Pencil skirts can cling tightly to the stomach area, emphasizing bulges. Choose A-line skirts or those with ruching instead, as they offer a more forgiving and flattering fit for the midsection.

• Limit excessive embellishments at the waist

Details like ruffles, bows, or pockets around the tummy area can draw unnecessary attention. Instead, go for dresses or tops with embellishments at the shoulders or neckline to shift the focus upward.

• Invest in shapewear: Seamless shapewear can smooth the midsection and enhance the fit of your clothes.
• Layer smartly: Light jackets, long cardigans, or tailored blazers can help camouflage the tummy while adding a stylish touch.
• Choose darker colours: Shades like black, navy, and deep jewel tones are great for creating a slimming effect.

By avoiding these styles and embracing the suggested alternatives, you can build a wardrobe that not only flatters your figure but also boosts your confidence every time you step out.