No matter how objectively ‘good’ your body may look, you may occasionally glance in the mirror and feel self-conscious about what you see. Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach to beauty, it’s understandable and natural to want to wear flattering clothes that address specific body concerns, such as larger arms or wider hips.
As someone who has long dealt with muscular, tree-trunk legs and a lengthy frame, I’m especially aware of which styles flatter and shape the body. So, I’ve rounded up 15 pieces ahead that address various body concerns, highlighting your assets rather than the areas you wish to hide.
15 Pieces of Clothing That Address Popular Body Concerns
1. Flowy and Flattering: A skort with flowy legs that doesn’t restrict or cut off circulation? I’m into it. This Boho Ruffle pick from Amazon flatters almost any figure and doesn’t draw emphasis to the upper thigh.
2. Wide Size Range: This Free Assembly Midi Shirtdress has a belted waist, which adds definition to the body and creates visual curves. If you often feel like you look boxy, this is the style to add to your rotation (and this particular pick is available up to size 4X).
3. Face-Framing V-Neck: V-neck shirts elongate the neck, which in turn makes the shoulders look less wide. Astr the Label’s V-Neck Sleeveless Boxy Top comes in three neutral colors and can be paired with everything from your favorite jeans to a formal skirt.
4. Adjustable and Comfortable: Wrap dresses are known as a flattering style for a reason! Not only do they define your waist, they’re easy to customize and work with your natural shape. I especially love this Amazon Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress because of the flattering ruching, size range (up to 6X!) and stretchy matte jersey material.
5. High-Waisted Dark Wash: Dark-wash jeans, like these Levi’s, are visually slimming and can be worn both day and night. I specifically like this pair because of the wider leg and ultra-high-rise design, which helps elongate the frame.
6. Snatching and Smoothing: Skims’ clothing and undergarments are known to snatch you in, and this Square-Neck Bodysuit is no exception. Wear it under clothes for a smoothing effect or on its own with a pair of jeans.
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7. The Perfect Peplum: Oversized peplum-style shirts create a well-proportioned shape, and this inexpensive top from Amazon works with both shorts and jeans for spring. I give it bonus points for coming in four cute colors.
8. Tunic Top: If your hips and thighs are a concern, look for A-line tunics, like this option from Donna Karan. It’ll float over problem areas without looking frumpy or oversized.
9. Pull-On Pants: Figure-flattering and only $20? I’m buying these Scoop Ultimate ScubaKnit Seamed Pants in every color. The elastic waistband makes them easy to pull on, while the relaxed fit skims legs without encasing them.
10. Empire Waist: Searching for a mini dress for spring? Check out the Zelma Short Sleeve Babydoll Mini Dress, which features a flowy skirt and high waistline — details that are great for emphasizing the smallest part of you while deemphasizing lower-body concerns.
11. A+ A-Line: A-line skirts are a flattering choice regardless of your specific body concerns. This Scoop Volume Skirt is available in sizes up to 4X and the elastic waist means it’s easy to slip on and off.
12. Breezy and Lightweight: Linen is the ideal material for spring because it’s lightweight and doesn’t retain heat. These Caslon Tapered Linen Pants won’t cling to problem areas and create a streamlined appearance.
13. Smocked Bodice: Stretchy and cute? Yes, please! The OPT Square Neck Maxi Dress features a shirred A-line skirt and a defined yet comfortable waist. It’s a flattering spring staple you’ll reach for repeatedly.
14. Sleek and Shaping: Spanx is known for creating flattering shapewear (and clothing) that smooths lumps and bumps. I’m obsessed with this Ponte Tank Midi Dress, which is available in both straight and plus sizes (and three colors).
15. Layered Up: A long tailored jacket, like this one from The Drop, creates a long visual line that makes you appear slimmer and taller.
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