Many of the women I work with have two primary concerns when choosing clothing:
- Which clothing will work to slim and make them look thinner.
- How to hide troubled areas easily, with things that are already in their closet, without having to squeeze themselves into uncomfortable shapewear.
There are several ways to hide troubled areas with your clothing, and it’s actually easier than you might think. We’ll take a look at four different ways to use your clothing to your advantage and help you appear slimmer in your daily attire.
Ruching
There are several ways to hide those trouble areas, but my favorite is ruching your clothing (this is where the fabric is sewn and gathered). Just be sure it is subtle, as too much will have the opposite effect and add visual weight. Ruching is universally flattering for everyone and can be easily found in many styles and sizes. Whether it’s to one side, over the torso, running the length of the body, or up a sleeve, it not only adds interest and femininity to a garment, but it’s pure magic when it comes to hiding trouble spots.
Show it Off
My second favorite trick to looking thinner in seconds is to show off your skinny bits! And yes, ladies, we all have skinny bits. Wearing or pushing up your sleeve to a ¾ length instantly takes pounds off and, as a bonus, makes you look taller!
Focus, Focus, Focus!
Next is to emphasize your waist. You can use the ruching method (as stated above) or simply ensure that you do not have too much excess fabric hanging around your waist. You can create a strong silhouette by wearing tailored-to-fit clothing that’s not too big or too tight, and you’ll be surprised at how it takes pounds off instantly. You’ll also look more polished and put together, which, some days, is the biggest benefit of all.
Things to Avoid
Lastly, avoid external patches, pockets, and large-scale prints. To create the best visual harmony, you should choose a print size by comparing them to your features. The smaller the scale you are, the smaller the scale of the patterns you should choose. Look at the size of your eyes, the apple of your cheeks, and the tip of your nose. Also, consider your bone structure and size. The more you reflect what’s naturally you, the more your clothing showcases you, not you showcasing the clothes.
Our Top Ruching Picks to Fit and Flatter
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.
Super Soft and Breathable Brami Top, $39
Conclusion
Ruching, a fabric-gathering technique, can be incredibly flattering for various body types due to its ability to create visual interest, contour the body, and emphasize or downplay certain areas. By gathering fabric at specific points, ruching introduces texture and depth, which can add curves, smooth lines, and camouflage areas, making it a versatile choice in fashion.
For those with curvier shapes, ruching can enhance and flatter natural curves without adding bulk. Strategically placed ruching around the waist, for example, can create a more defined silhouette, drawing attention to the smallest part of the waist while softening the look around the hips and thighs. This can be especially effective for those looking to create or enhance an hourglass effect.
For individuals with a more athletic or straight figure, ruching can add a sense of volume and softness. When placed around the bust or hips, it creates the illusion of fuller curves, adding a feminine touch and balancing out proportions. Side ruching, particularly on dresses or tops, can add dimension to the body, enhancing an overall shapely effect.
Ruching also works wonders for petite body types, as it can elongate the figure. Vertical or diagonal ruching lines can give an illusion of length, drawing the eye up and down, which can make the wearer appear taller.
In addition to its figure-flattering qualities, ruching is also forgiving and comfortable, as it can accommodate subtle body fluctuations and provide a fitted look without feeling restrictive. This makes ruching an ideal choice for formal wear, casual attire, and even swimwear, proving its versatility across different styles and occasions. Ultimately, ruching adds elegance and flexibility, allowing anyone to enhance their natural shape and feel confident in their clothes.
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