So you’ve got a little more bounce to the ounce and your jeans are cutting off your circulation. It’s not the ideal situation but it’s no time to panic. Of course you’ll exercise and eat right to lose the extra pounds but in the meantime you need to look presentable. Here are a few inexpensive tips to help you look your best at any size.
Posture
Those extra pounds are not enough to weigh you down. And even if they are, slouching or trying to camouflage your weight gain will only make the situation worse. Walk into the room with your back straight and your chest out. No you’re not showing off your boobs, sticking your chest out will minimize your stomach.
Cost: Free, if you don’t count the time it will take to learn to sit and stand the proper way.
Boat Necklines
Scrounge through your closet to see if you can find any boat necklines. Tops and dresses with this cut draw attention away from your middle, emphasizing your shoulders, neck and face. I don’t know too many woman who hate their shoulders.
Cost: If you can’t find a single boat neck in your closet, you can find these styles for under $50 at Old Navy and several online venues.
Bold Accessories
Who will be looking at your pouch when your necklace is stopping traffic? Pair a bold necklace with a relatively simple outfit to draw attention away from problem areas.
Cost: Costume jewelry has been big for a while now, so you shouldn’t have any problems scoring an extravagant necklace for under 50 dollars. But if you need a little guidance try department stores (JCPenney, Macy’s etc.) Don’t be afraid to go into stores targeted toward the younger crowd (i.e. Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe) Jewelry that makes a statement knows no age.
Dramatic Makeup
If your face is looking a bit fuller these days play up your most striking features with makeup. Long lashes, clean eye shadow, and minimal eye liner make the eye look larger. The larger your eye looks, the smaller your face.
Costs: You don’t have to buy Mac to achieve a dramatic look. Brands sold at your local drug store will do. You can get mascara or fake lashes, eye shadow and an eye pencil for well under $50.00.
Belted Waist
Most women maintain a small waist despite weight gain. If you’re one of these lucky ladies, belt that tiny waist to emphasize your curvy physique. Belts don’t have to be expensive. A scarf, sash, or old tie can serve add an extra touch of personality to a classic dress.
Cost: If you use something you’ve found around your house you’ll have saved yourself some money. Three snaps for you!
Rock an Updo
Pull out those bobby pins, grab the brush and tie that scarf extra tight. Style your hair in an updo to draw attention to your beautiful face and away from your bloated body. No one will notice your jiggling arms while they’re trying to figure out how your hair is defying gravity.
Cost: If you can style your own hair this won’t you cost you anything but some time. If you have to make a trip to the stylist, have your hair washed and ready to be styled to stay under that $50.00 mark. (maybe…)
Avoid Extremes
Don’t attempt to hide under baggy or loose fitting clothes and don’t try to tuck yourself into anything too tight. Buy clothes with flowing fabrics. They’ll hug the body in the right places and blouse out in larger areas.
Costs: Again you can secure these flowing tops, dresses and pants at most department stores for under $50.00 especially now that the After Christmas sales are still going on.
Smile
This may seem like a joke but I’m dead serious, a genuine smile lights up your face. If you have a captivating smile work it! Men and women won’t be able to resist it and your body’s imperfections will become less of an issue.
Cost: Free!
Wear Strong Solid Colors
Don’t let black dominate your whole wardrobe while you wait to get your body right. Not only is it boring, everyone knows what you’re trying to do. As long as the shape and structure of the garment is right you can use any solid color to appear slimmer except for white.
Cost: This will vary but simple items can be found anywhere, guaranteeing you’ll meet your price point.
Remember your Confidence
Whether you wear a size 0 or a size 30, never leave home without your confidence. It sets the tone of how you’ll be perceived in every encounter. Yes people are shallow but once they get past the superficial, you’ll want your inner being to shine.
Cost: Nothing monetarily; but if you don’t have it, it may take significant time and effort to build it up, but the investment is well worth it.
