♣ 5 Ways to Look Slimmer ♣

1. Long silhouettes. Whether it be long pants or skirts, a longer hemline will always lengthen and slim the body. When choosing slacks or jeans, look for a straight or boot-cut style, which create a smoother line. Tapered cuts or pants that cut close to the ankles will actually make you look bigger around the waist and hip area and create an exaggerated v-shape, which is opposite of what we are trying to achieve.

If you choose a pant leg that is fuller at the knees and widens slightly at the calves and ankles, you're creating a more proportional shape, which is extremely flattering on any size. Also, the shoe you wear is also important in elongating the frame. A pointed heel or pump will not only give you height, which has a lean and slimming effect on the body, but also will create an extended silhouette.

2. Low cut or v-neck tops. V-necks help to draw the eye down, which helps the body to look narrower. Showing off the clavicle, or the collar bone, also helps to create a slimming effect. Another great tip is to wear longer necklaces, instead of those that hang closely to the neck.

Choosing the right accessories is also important. Plus sizes look great in bold, chunky jewelry, so if your personal style ranges from eccentric to ethnic to artistic, go for those one-of-a-kind pieces, but keep proportion in mind.

3.Monochromatic outfits or black. Dressing all in one color always makes you look slimmer, but stick to darker, richer tones like brown, navy, gray or plum. Not only does this trick make you look 10 pounds slimmer, but it's a quick and easy way to instantly look chic and sophisticated.

Surprisingly, white and cream also work with a monochromatic outfit -- just make sure none of the fabrics are too clingy. If you plan on wearing a lighter color all over, choose tailored cuts and styles that have some structure to them. White pantsuits look great and slimmer on most people if you choose the right cut.

If you're really color shy, black is always in. To prevent the Morticia Adams look, stick with soft, flowing fabrics, or accent your outfit with some feminine touches like a lace camisole.

4. Slimming undergarments. Girdles aren't just for your grandmother anymore. With new textile technologies, Lycra blend fabrics help to hold you in and give you curves where you need them. Plus, you don't have to save them for special occasions -- many lingerie companies are making underwear with shaping panels in them for everyday comfort. One of the most popular brands on the market is Spanx (www.spanx.com), a line of hosiery, intimates and ready-to-wear items.

5. Wear clothes to show off what you've got. Just because you've got curves doesn't mean you have to hide them. If you've got a round tush, show it off in a great pencil skirt. If you've got great cleavage, flaunt it in a low-cut button down.

Even if you're not at your goal weight, there's no reason to hide behind a sweatshirt and baggy pants. Loving your body at any size is what will ultimately make you look great no matter what you're wearing.

Hope this helps you girls out there too..